If you love the cozy comfort of biscuits with a sweet twist, this Caramel Biscuit Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine golden, flaky biscuits infused with vanilla, topped with a luscious caramel sauce that melts into every crumb, and finished off with a sprinkle of sea salt flakes for that perfect balance of sweet and salty. Every bite feels like a warm hug, making it an irresistible treat for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack. Whether you’re baking for friends or simply treating yourself, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to return to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Caramel Biscuit Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and richness that make these biscuits so unforgettable.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of your biscuit, providing structure and that tender crumb.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness to balance flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures your biscuits rise to fluffy perfection.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed: Cold butter is key for flaky layers and buttery taste.
- 1/4 cup milk (or buttermilk for a richer flavor): Moistens the dough, with buttermilk adding tang and tenderness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and sweetness to the biscuit dough.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for caramel): The base for the silky caramel sauce.
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed): Deep, molasses-rich sweetness essential for caramel’s flavor.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates that classic creamy texture in the caramel.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (caramel): Adds depth and rounds out the caramel notes.
- Pinch of salt (caramel): Balances sweetness and heightens flavor complexity.
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (for melting): Optional but irresistible addition for a chocolate drizzle or dip.
- Sea salt flakes (for sprinkling on top): Just a little crunch and a pop of saltiness on the finished biscuits.
How to Make Caramel Biscuit Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Biscuit Dough
Start by mixing the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt—in a large bowl. Cut in the cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add the milk and vanilla extract, stirring gently just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork it to keep the biscuits tender and flaky.
Step 2: Bake the Biscuits
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Use a round cutter to cut out biscuits and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes or until the tops are beautifully golden brown. The smell wafting through your kitchen right now is pure bliss!
Step 3: Make the Caramel Sauce
While the biscuits are baking, melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar until it dissolves and starts bubbling, then slowly add the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Let the mixture thicken for a few minutes before adding vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. The caramel should be rich, smooth, and perfectly glossy.
Step 4: Assemble the Caramel Biscuit
Once the biscuits have cooled slightly, generously spoon the warm caramel sauce over each one. If you’re feeling adventurous, melt the chocolate chips and drizzle a little over the caramel for a dreamy chocolate-caramel combo. Finish with a light sprinkle of sea salt flakes to elevate the flavors with a delicate crunch.
How to Serve Caramel Biscuit Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle toasted nuts, such as pecans or almonds, on top of the caramel. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms this simple treat into an elegant dessert. Fresh berries can add a refreshing pop of color and tartness to balance the sweetness.
Side Dishes
These caramel biscuits pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a creamy latte for a decadent breakfast experience. If serving at brunch, complement them with fresh fruit salads or scrambled eggs to balance sweetness with savory flavors. For an indulgent afternoon snack, a glass of cold milk or warm chai tea is sure to hit the spot.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider layering the biscuits in a trifle dish, alternating with caramel sauce, whipped cream, and crumbled nuts for a stunning layered dessert. Mini versions of the biscuits can be served as bite-sized treats on elegant serving trays, perfect for parties or get-togethers. You might also use them as a base for individual sundae cups—adding ice cream, sauces, and toppings for a personal treat that feels gourmet yet homemade.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their fresh, flaky texture. Keep the caramel sauce refrigerated separately in a sealed jar to avoid soggy biscuits. When ready to serve, reheat the biscuits and drizzle with warm caramel.
Freezing
You can freeze the biscuits before baking by placing them on a baking tray until firm, then transferring to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. The caramel sauce is best made fresh, but it can be frozen in small portions for up to a month and defrosted gently when needed.
Reheating
Reheat biscuits in a warm oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warm and soft. Warm the caramel sauce gently in a saucepan or microwave, stirring regularly to prevent burning. Assemble just before serving to keep everything luscious and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use buttermilk instead of regular milk in this Caramel Biscuit Recipe?
Absolutely! Buttermilk adds a wonderful tang and tenderness, making your biscuits extra moist and flavorful. Just substitute it in equal parts for the milk.
Is there a way to make the caramel sauce less sweet?
Yes, reduce the amount of brown sugar slightly or add an extra pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. You can also simmer the caramel sauce a bit longer to deepen the flavor without adding more sugar.
What type of butter is best to use for the biscuit dough?
Cold, unsalted butter is ideal because it allows you to control the salt in the recipe and creates the perfect flaky layers when baked. Make sure it’s very cold when mixed into the dough.
Can I prepare the biscuit dough ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough a day ahead and keep it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. This short rest can actually enhance the biscuit texture, but be sure to shape and bake the biscuits fresh when ready.
How do I prevent the caramel from hardening after it cools?
Keep the caramel sauce warm until serving or store it in a sealed container and gently reheat before drizzling. Adding the heavy cream helps keep it smooth and pourable rather than hardening like candy.
Final Thoughts
This Caramel Biscuit Recipe is one of those rare treats that feels both indulgent and comforting, effortlessly elevating your baking game with simple ingredients and cozy flavors. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become a go-to favorite for sharing around the table or enjoying in a quiet moment with a cup of tea. Trust me, baking these biscuits and savoring that sticky-sweet caramel on top will bring you as much joy as it does to me. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Caramel Biscuit Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously flaky caramel biscuits topped with a rich homemade caramel sauce and a hint of sea salt, perfect for a sweet treat or dessert.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup milk (or buttermilk for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Caramel Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Topping
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (for melting)
- Sea salt flakes (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
- Make the Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter. Stir in 1 cup packed brown sugar and bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Slowly add 1/2 cup heavy cream while stirring to combine. Reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat, then stir in 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Set aside to cool.
- Assemble the Caramel Biscuit: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cut in 1/2 cup cold cubed unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in 1/4 cup milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to form a soft dough. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead gently a few times. Roll out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Cut biscuits using a cookie cutter or glass and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the prepared caramel sauce evenly over each biscuit. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Serve: While the biscuits are warm, melt 1/2 cup chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second increments, stirring between each until smooth. Drizzle melted chocolate over the biscuits and sprinkle with sea salt flakes for added flavor contrast. Serve immediately and enjoy the balance of sweet caramel, rich chocolate, and flaky biscuit.
Notes
- Using buttermilk instead of milk will add a richer flavor and softer texture to the biscuits.
- Ensure the butter for the dough is very cold to achieve flaky biscuit layers.
- Caramel sauce should be stirred constantly to prevent burning.
- Store any leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Reheat biscuits gently in the oven to restore flakiness before serving.
