James Beard's Cream Biscuits

Beard’s famously simple biscuits made with just flour, leavening, and heavy cream for a tender, rich crumb.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, plus more if needed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a bowl.
2. Stir in the heavy cream just until a soft dough forms, adding a splash more cream if it is dry.
3. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead gently a few times, then pat 3/4 inch thick.
4. Cut into rounds with a 2-inch cutter and dip each biscuit in the melted butter to coat.
5. Arrange on a baking sheet and bake 12 to 15 minutes, until risen and golden. Serve warm.

Notes

Adapted from James Beard’s celebrated cream biscuits, proof that great baking can be effortless.