Nothing’s quite as satisfying as a batch of warm, fluffy biscuits—unless they come out of the oven looking like they’re ready to topple over! If your biscuits are tilting or leaning to one side, don’t worry. Let’s dive into why this happens and what you can do to keep them standing tall.
Common Causes of Lopsided or Leaning Biscuits
Uneven Cutting or Shaping
One of the biggest culprits of leaning biscuits is uneven cutting or shaping. If your biscuit dough isn’t rolled out evenly or if your cutter isn’t perfectly straight, some parts of the biscuit might rise more than others, creating that tilted effect.
Overworked Dough
Biscuits are best with a light, flaky texture, which requires minimal handling. Overworking the dough can make it tough, leading to uneven rising and causing the biscuits to lean or collapse on one side.
Incorrect Oven Temperature
If your oven temperature is too low or too high, the biscuits might rise unevenly. A too-low temperature can lead to slow rising, while a too-hot oven can cause the outside to set before the biscuit has fully risen, leading to a slant.
How to Keep Your Biscuits Standing Tall
Cut the Dough Evenly
To avoid lopsided biscuits, make sure your dough is rolled to an even thickness. When using a biscuit cutter, press down straight without twisting, which can seal the edges and interfere with rising.
Handle the Dough Lightly
Mix and knead the dough just until it comes together. Minimal handling will help keep the biscuits light, flaky, and evenly shaped. Overworked dough often leads to uneven rising and that “Leaning Tower of Pisa” effect.
Check Your Oven Temperature
Use an oven thermometer to make sure your oven is set to the correct temperature. Bake at the recommended temperature to ensure an even rise and a well-formed biscuit structure.
Final Thoughts: Perfecting Your Biscuits
A few simple adjustments can keep your biscuits from resembling the Leaning Tower of Pisa. By focusing on even cutting, gentle handling, and proper oven temperature, you’ll get beautifully straight, flaky biscuits every time.
