Copycat Bisquick Mix Recipe – Homemade Baking Base

Did you know that nearly 70% of American households keep a box of pancake mix in their pantry? This convenient staple not only simplifies breakfast but also opens up a world of quick baking possibilities. However, you might find that a homemade Bisquick mix can enhance your cooking while allowing for greater customization. Imagine crafting a mix that meets your dietary needs and avoids those unnecessary additives. So, how do you create this versatile baking base that can last for weeks and simplify your meal prep?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll adore making your own Bisquick mix because it’s quick and easy. With a prep time of less than 5 minutes, you’ll create a baking base that speeds up your cooking process. This mix can replace store-bought Bisquick in most recipes, so you’ll save money by using simple pantry staples.

The versatility of this mix is impressive. Whether you’re whipping up pancakes, waffles, or biscuits, it works wonders. You can adapt the recipe to meet dietary needs, like making it gluten-free or egg-free. It also allows you to choose your fats, whether you prefer butter or shortening. Customizable ingredients can cater to various dietary preferences, making it an even better choice.

Plus, you can easily double or triple the recipe for larger batches, adjusting your storage to fit your kitchen setup.

You’ll love the better ingredients too. Avoid those artificial additives found in commercial mixes. With this homemade version, you get to pick healthier fats, fresh baking powder, and control your sugar content.

Once you’ve prepared your mix, store it in an airtight container. It lasts up to 3 months in the pantry or longer in the freezer.

You now have a convenient, customizable, and cost-effective baking solution right at your fingertips!

History

The history of Bisquick is a fascinating journey that began in 1930 when Carl Smith, a sales executive at General Mills, was inspired by a train dining car chef’s use of a pre-mixed biscuit batter.

This innovative idea led to the creation of a convenient baking mix. Originally, it contained lard, flour, baking powder, and salt, and required refrigeration for storage.

In 1931, after modifications by Charlie Kress, General Mills’ head chemist, the recipe used hydrogenated oil, eliminating the need for refrigeration. The exchange of lard for hydrogenated oil addressed the issue of refrigeration needs.

Bisquick was first promoted for baking biscuits with the catchy slogan, “90 seconds from package to oven.”

As its popularity soared, competitors started launching similar products.

Recipe

Making your own Bisquick mix at home is a simple process that allows you to control the ingredients and customize the mix to your liking. This versatile mix can be used for a variety of dishes, from pancakes to biscuits, making it a staple in many kitchens. By preparing your own version, you can guarantee freshness and adjust the recipe to cater to your dietary preferences, using alternatives like whole wheat or spelt flour if desired. Additionally, storing the mix in an airtight container helps to maintain its freshness for longer periods.

To get started, gather your ingredients and tools. A stand mixer is ideal for combining the dry ingredients and shortening, but you can also use a pastry cutter or mix by hand if you prefer a more hands-on approach. Once you have your mix ready, store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for future use. The following recipe yields approximately 6 cups of Bisquick mix, perfect for a multitude of recipes.

Ingredients:
– 4 cups flour
– 2 Tbsp. baking powder
– 1 ½ tsp. salt
– 2 tsp. sugar (optional)
– ½ cup melted butter or shortening

Cooking Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Whisk together until well mixed. If using self-rising flour, you can adjust the amount of baking powder and salt accordingly.

2. Add the melted butter or shortening to the dry mixture. If using a stand mixer, attach the paddle and mix on low speed until the shortening is evenly distributed and the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If mixing by hand, use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut the shortening into the mixture.

3. Mix for about 1 minute, confirming that all dry ingredients are incorporated and there are no large lumps. You want a consistent texture throughout the mix.

4. Once your Bisquick mix is ready, transfer it to an airtight container or store it in a freezer bag. Label the container with the date and type of mix for future reference.

5. Store in a cool, dark place at room temperature for up to 3 months if using shortening or refrigerate for up to 3-4 weeks. If using butter, it’s recommended to refrigerate or freeze the mix for longer preservation.

When making your Bisquick mix, keep in mind that you can easily customize it to fit your personal taste. Experiment with different types of flour or fats to create unique flavors.

If you decide to include powdered dry milk for added richness, be sure to adjust the liquid content in recipes that call for milk. Always check the freshness of your baking powder before using your mix in any recipes. Enjoy your homemade Bisquick mix in a variety of delicious dishes!

Final Thoughts

Considering the benefits of homemade Bisquick mix, it’s clear that this simple recipe is a game changer for your kitchen. Not only can you whip it up in just five minutes, but you also gain a versatile baking base for pancakes, waffles, and biscuits. You’re avoiding those pesky preservatives commonly found in store-bought mixes, making it a healthier choice.

By utilizing pantry staples, this recipe is budget-friendly. Plus, when stored properly in an airtight container, it can last up to six months, giving you ready access to a reliable baking mix. Additionally, homemade Bisquick can be prepared without a food processor, although using one helps achieve a more consistent texture.

For best results, consider using a food processor to mix the ingredients evenly, and remember, fresh baking powder is key for that perfect rise.

Customization is another major perk. You have full control over the ingredients and can adjust the ratios according to your specific baking needs. Whether you opt for all-purpose flour or a substitute like self-rising flour, your homemade mix can cater to your preferences.

With these advantages, it’s time to adopt this efficient alternative and enhance your baking experience. Enjoy the convenience and quality of your homemade Bisquick mix!

FAQ

Homemade Bisquick mix offers a world of possibilities, and you probably have some questions about storage, ingredients, and how to use it effectively.

Storage and Shelf Life: You can keep your homemade mix in an airtight container or a mason jar. If you store it in the fridge, it lasts 3-4 weeks. For longer storage, freeze it, and it will stay good for 3-4 months. Avoid room temperature due to the butter content. If you use shortening instead of butter, the mix can be stored at room temperature for several months.

Ingredients and Variations: Your basic mix consists of flour, baking powder, salt, and fat, like butter or shortening. You can add sugar if you like, but it’s optional. Homemade Bisquick uses flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening as key ingredients for a versatile baking base.

Preparation and Usage: Mix your ingredients using a stand mixer, food processor, or by hand—just a minute is enough. You can replace store-bought Bisquick with your homemade version in any recipe. For biscuits, combine 2 ¼ cups of the mix with 2/3 cup milk and bake at 450°F for 8-10 minutes. Enjoy experimenting!