Fat-free Baking Powder Biscuits

Fat-free Baking Powder Biscuits Recipe - Authentic American Delicacy

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10-12 minutes | Servings: 12 biscuits

Introduction

Fat-free baking powder biscuits are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional biscuits. These biscuits are light, fluffy, and perfect for any meal of the day. They are easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients.

History

Baking powder biscuits have been a staple in American cuisine for centuries. The use of baking powder as a leavening agent in biscuits became popular in the mid-19th century, making it easier and quicker to produce light and fluffy biscuits without the need for yeast.

Ingredients

2 cups flour [1]
2 tbsp baking powder
0.75 tbsp salt
0.5 cup apple sauce
0.5 to 0.67 cup cold low-fat buttermilk, skim milk or milk substitute

How to prepare

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Sprinkle the applesauce over the flour and cut it in with a pastry blender until it resembles split peas.
The texture should be somewhat coarse.
Sprinkle 0.5 cup of cold milk over the flour and applesauce, and quickly stir it in with a fork.
Add only as much milk as needed to make the dough hold together.
Gather the dough into a ball, briefly working it together with your hands, and then roll it out to a thickness of 0.5 inch on a floured board.
Cut out small rounds (about 2.5" to 3" in diameter) and place them on a cookie sheet sprayed with PAM. If you are not baking them immediately, chill them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Bake the biscuits in a preheated oven at 450°F (232°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are puffed and lightly browned on top.

Variations

Add grated cheese or herbs to the dough for extra flavor.
Substitute whole wheat flour for all or part of the all-purpose flour for a nuttier taste.
Brush the tops of the biscuits with melted butter before baking for a golden finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to sift the dry ingredients together to ensure they are well combined.

- Cutting in the applesauce with a pastry blender helps create a flaky texture in the biscuits.

- Only add as much milk as needed to make the dough hold together, as adding too much can make the biscuits dense.

- Chilling the biscuits before baking helps them retain their shape and rise better in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these biscuits warm with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of jam for a sweet treat. They also pair well with savory dishes like soups and stews.

Cooking Techniques

Sifting the dry ingredients together ensures they are well combined.

- Cutting in the applesauce with a pastry blender helps create a flaky texture in the biscuits.

- Rolling out the dough to a consistent thickness ensures even baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use regular milk instead of a low-fat milk substitute.

- Vegetable shortening can be used in place of applesauce for a richer biscuit.

Make Ahead Tips

The biscuit dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply roll out the dough, cut out the biscuits, and chill until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these biscuits on a platter with a variety of toppings, such as butter, jam, honey, or cheese, for a beautiful and delicious presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

These biscuits pair well with a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, salads, and breakfast items like eggs and bacon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the biscuits on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of fat-free baking powder biscuits contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of fat-free baking powder biscuits contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

These biscuits are fat-free, making them a healthier option for those looking to reduce their fat intake.

Proteins

Each serving of fat-free baking powder biscuits contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

These biscuits are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

These biscuits may contain wheat and soy allergens.

Summary

Fat-free baking powder biscuits are a low-fat, low-calorie option that is perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthier biscuit without sacrificing flavor.

Summary

Fat-free baking powder biscuits are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional biscuits. They are easy to make and perfect for any meal of the day. Enjoy these light and fluffy biscuits with your favorite toppings for a satisfying treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a rainy afternoon and I was rummaging through an old recipe box that belonged to my great-grandmother. As I flipped through the yellowed index cards, my eyes landed on a simple yet intriguing recipe for fat-free baking powder biscuits.

My great-grandmother had always been a wonderful cook, known for her delectable baked goods and hearty meals. She had passed down many recipes to my grandmother, who in turn had shared them with me. But this particular recipe for fat-free baking powder biscuits was one I had never come across before.

I studied the recipe card carefully, noting the few ingredients and straightforward instructions. It seemed almost too good to be true – fluffy, tender biscuits without a hint of fat. I knew I had to give it a try.

The next day, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in the cozy kitchen of my childhood home. As I mixed the flour, baking powder, salt, and milk together, the familiar scents of baking filled the air. I rolled out the dough, cut it into rounds, and placed them on a baking sheet before sliding them into the oven.

As the biscuits baked, I could hardly contain my excitement. Would they turn out as light and fluffy as promised? Would they be as delicious as I imagined?

When the timer dinged, I eagerly pulled the biscuits from the oven. They were golden brown and puffed up beautifully. I couldn't wait to take a bite.

I broke one of the biscuits in half and marveled at its soft, airy texture. It was perfect – light and tender, with just the right amount of saltiness. I took a bite and savored the simple yet satisfying flavor.

From that moment on, fat-free baking powder biscuits became a staple in my kitchen. I made them for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, pairing them with soups, stews, and salads. They were a hit with my family and friends, who couldn't believe that such a delicious treat could be made without any fat.

Over the years, I experimented with the recipe, adding different herbs and spices to create new variations. I made sweet biscuits with cinnamon and sugar, savory biscuits with cheese and herbs, and even gluten-free biscuits for my friends with dietary restrictions.

But no matter how I tweaked the recipe, the basic formula remained the same – flour, baking powder, salt, and milk. It was a testament to the simplicity and beauty of homemade baking, a tradition passed down through generations of my family.

As I grew older, I continued to make fat-free baking powder biscuits, sharing the recipe with anyone who expressed an interest. I taught my children and grandchildren how to make them, passing on not just a recipe but a piece of family history.

And so, every time I bake a batch of those light and fluffy biscuits, I am reminded of the rainy afternoon when I first discovered the recipe in my great-grandmother's old recipe box. It is a reminder of the power of simple ingredients, a testament to the joy of cooking and sharing food with loved ones.

In a world filled with complicated recipes and processed foods, fat-free baking powder biscuits are a reminder of the beauty of simplicity. They are a taste of the past, a connection to my ancestors, and a delicious treat that will always have a place in my heart – and in my kitchen.