The Magic of Homemade: Never Buy Bisquick Again

My grandmother, a woman whose hands seemed permanently dusted with flour, always had a jar of this mix tucked away in the back of her refrigerator. It wasn’t just an ingredient; it was a promise of warmth, of blueberry muffins on Sunday mornings, and of impossibly flaky biscuits served alongside her famous fried chicken. Every time I use this recipe, I’m transported back to her sunny kitchen, filled with the comforting scent of baking and the sound of her humming a tuneless melody. This is more than just a shortcut; it’s a connection to the past, a tradition I’m delighted to share with you.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: None (Mix only)
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yields: 7 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 6 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons baking powder
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable shortening

Equipment Needed

• Large bowl
• Whisk
• Pastry blender or food processor
• Airtight container for storage

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting ensures that the ingredients are thoroughly combined and lightens the flour, preventing a dense final product. I prefer to sift it three times for best results.
2. Cut in the vegetable shortening using a pastry blender or a food processor. If using a pastry blender, work the shortening into the flour mixture until it resembles fine crumbs. If using a food processor, pulse the mixture until the shortening is evenly distributed and the texture is crumbly. Be careful not to over-process, as this can lead to a tough mix. You’re looking for a texture similar to coarse sand.
3. Store the prepared mix in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 months. Make sure the container is properly sealed to prevent the mix from absorbing any odors from the refrigerator. Label the container with the date of preparation to ensure freshness.
4. Use the homemade Bisquick mix whenever your recipe calls for “Bisquick mix”.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a flakier texture, ensure that your vegetable shortening is very cold before using it. You can even chill the flour in the freezer for 15-20 minutes before starting the recipe.
• If you don’t have vegetable shortening, you can substitute it with lard or even cold butter, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Lard will give you a slightly richer flavor, while butter will add a subtle buttery note.
• Don’t overmix! Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tougher final product. Handle the dough gently when incorporating the mix into your recipes.
• For a healthier alternative, you can replace up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will add a nutty flavor and increase the fiber content.
• Test your baking powder to ensure it’s still active. Place a teaspoon of baking powder in a cup of hot water. If it bubbles vigorously, it’s good to use. If not, replace it with fresh baking powder.
• Customize your mix by adding dried herbs, spices, or cheese to the mix. This is a great way to add flavor to your baked goods. For example, try adding a tablespoon of dried rosemary and a quarter cup of grated Parmesan cheese for savory scones.
• To make sweet biscuits or scones, add 2-4 tablespoons of sugar to the mix before cutting in the shortening.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This homemade Bisquick mix is incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide variety of recipes, from biscuits and pancakes to waffles and even some quick breads. Use it as you would regular Bisquick. The mix should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 months. Do not store at room temperature, as the shortening will melt and the mix will spoil. When ready to use, simply scoop out the desired amount and follow the instructions in your chosen recipe.

Nutritional Information

Please note that the following nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (approx. 1/4 cup)	% Daily Value
Calories	250 kcal	13%
Total Fat	15g	23%
Saturated Fat	4g	20%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	200mg	8%
Total Carbohydrate	25g	8%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	0g	0%
Protein	3g	6%

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free Bisquick Mix: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for binding.
• Dairy-Free Bisquick Mix: This recipe is already dairy-free! Just be sure to use dairy-free milk in whatever you’re baking with it.
• Vegan Bisquick Mix: Ensure the recipes you use this mix in are also vegan!
• Spiced Bisquick Mix: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves to the flour mixture for a warm, spiced flavor. Perfect for fall baking!
• Herb & Cheese Bisquick Mix: Add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or chives) and ¼ cup of grated cheese (such as cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyere) to the flour mixture for a savory twist.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Why should I make my own Bisquick mix instead of buying it?
A: Homemade Bisquick mix allows you to control the ingredients and avoid any unwanted additives or preservatives. It’s also more economical and tastes fresher!

Q: Can I use melted butter instead of shortening?
A: While you can use melted butter, the texture will be different. Shortening creates a flakier result because it’s a solid fat. If using butter, ensure it’s cold and cut into small pieces before incorporating it into the flour.

Q: How long does the homemade Bisquick mix last?
A: When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the mix will last for up to 4 months. Make sure to label the container with the date you made the mix.

Q: Can I freeze the Bisquick mix?
A: Yes, you can freeze the mix in an airtight container for up to 6 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using.

Q: What can I make with this Bisquick mix?
A: The possibilities are endless! Use it for biscuits, pancakes, waffles, quick breads, coffee cake, and even as a coating for fried chicken or fish.

Final Thoughts

Making your own Bisquick mix is a simple yet transformative experience. Not only will you save money and control the ingredients, but you’ll also unlock a world of culinary possibilities. From fluffy pancakes to savory biscuits, this versatile mix is a must-have in any kitchen. So, dust off your mixing bowl, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create something delicious! Don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations and substitutions to create a mix that perfectly suits your taste. Share your creations and feedback – I’d love to hear how you’re using your homemade Bisquick mix!