To make baking soda biscuits, also known as soda biscuits or soda bread biscuits, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup milk (plus a little extra if needed)
Here's the step-by-step process to make baking soda biscuits:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step ensures that the butter is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Pour in the milk and stir until the dough comes together. If the dough seems too dry, add a little more milk, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a soft, slightly sticky consistency.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead it gently for about 1 minute, just until it forms a smooth ball.
Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/2 inch. Use a round biscuit cutter or a drinking glass to cut out biscuits from the dough. Press straight down without twisting the cutter to ensure the biscuits rise properly.
Place the biscuits onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.
Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.
Remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack.
Baking soda biscuits are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Serve them alongside butter, jam, or your favorite toppings. They are delicious for breakfast or as a side with soups, stews, or salads. Enjoy!