I find these Apple Biscuits with Honey Butter Glaze to be the perfect blend of tender, flaky layers and warm autumn spices. The addition of grated fresh apple adds a subtle sweetness, and the honey butter glaze provides a delightful finishing touch. They’re an ideal treat for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack. Apple Biscuits with Honey Butter Glaze

Why I Love This Recipe

I appreciate how these biscuits combine the comforting flavors of fall with a satisfying texture. The dough is simple to prepare, and the folding technique creates those desirable flaky layers. The honey butter glaze not only adds sweetness but also gives the biscuits a beautiful sheen. They’re a delightful way to enjoy the season’s flavors.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Biscuits:

4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting the surface
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup cold butter
1/2 cup grated apple
1 cup chilled buttermilk

For the Glaze:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons honey
Pinch of salt

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cardamom, and cloves.
Cut in the cold butter and grated apple using a pastry cutter, fork, or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gently stir in the chilled buttermilk until just combined. The dough will be sticky.
Generously flour a clean work surface and your hands. Turn the dough out onto the surface and knead it a few times until it comes together.
Pat the dough into an oblong oval shape about 1 inch thick. Fold the short sides toward the center, like folding an envelope. Press the dough back out into an oval shape. Repeat this folding and pressing process a total of 7 times to create flaky layers.
Cut the dough into 3- to 4-inch circles using a biscuit cutter or a glass. Place the biscuits on an ungreased baking sheet or in two round cake pans.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown.
While the biscuits are baking, prepare the glaze. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the honey and a pinch of salt until combined.
When the biscuits come out of the oven, brush them with the honey butter glaze.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 20 biscuits
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Apple Pie Spice Substitute: If preferred, I can use 2 teaspoons of apple pie spice in place of the individual spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cardamom, and cloves).
Different Fruits: I might try substituting the grated apple with grated pear for a different flavor profile.
Glaze Options: For a different twist, I could add a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the honey butter glaze.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store any leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating: To reheat, I place the biscuits in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, I microwave them for 15-20 seconds, though this may soften the texture slightly.

FAQs

How do I prevent the biscuit dough from being too sticky?

I find that the dough is naturally sticky due to the moisture from the grated apple and buttermilk. To manage this, I keep my hands and work surface well-floured and handle the dough gently to avoid overworking it.

Can I prepare the biscuits ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the biscuit dough, cut out the biscuits, and place them on a baking sheet. I then cover them and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, I bake them as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

What type of apple works best in this recipe?

I prefer using firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, which hold their shape and provide a nice contrast to the sweet glaze. However, any apple variety I enjoy eating raw should work well.

Can I freeze the baked biscuits?

Absolutely. Once the biscuits have cooled completely, I wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, I thaw them at room temperature and warm them in the oven.

Is it possible to make these biscuits gluten-free?

Yes, I can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. I ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help mimic the texture of traditional biscuits.

Conclusion

These Apple Biscuits with Honey Butter Glaze are a delightful way to embrace the flavors of fall. I enjoy the combination of tender, flaky layers with the warmth of spices and the sweetness of the glaze. Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated the next day, they bring comfort and joy to any meal.