Biscuits are a delicious treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Many bakers find themselves with extra biscuit dough from time to time, and need to know the proper storage techniques to keep it fresh until the next use. There are a few key things to keep in mind when storing unused biscuit dough.
Should You Refrigerate or Freeze Biscuit Dough?
The first question many bakers have is whether refrigeration or freezing is better for storing unused biscuit dough. The short answer is that both methods work well, but freezing tends to keep the dough fresher for longer.
Refrigerating biscuit dough will keep it usable for about 3-5 days. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. The colder environment of the refrigerator slows down yeast activity and keeps the dough from proofing too much. However, refrigeration can cause some drying out, especially on the dough’s surface.
Freezing is ideal for longer term storage of 1-2 months. The cold environment basically puts the dough in stasis by dramatically slowing down yeast leavening. Make sure to wrap dough air-tight in plastic wrap or freezer bags. Allow dough to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using. One drawback is that freezing can cause some loss of leavening power.
Tips for Refrigerating Biscuit Dough
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container
- Use within 3-5 days for best quality
- Dough may dry out slightly on the surface
- Let dough sit at room temperature 30 minutes before baking
Tips for Freezing Biscuit Dough
- Wrap air-tight in plastic wrap or freezer bag
- Freeze for 1-2 months
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator
- May lose some rising ability
- Allow dough to proof again before baking if needed
How Long Does Unbaked Biscuit Dough Last?
The shelf life of unbaked biscuit dough depends on the storage method. Here is an overview of how long refrigerated and frozen dough will last:
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 3-5 days |
| Freezer | 1-2 months |
As you can see, refrigeration gives you a few days while freezing buys you quite a bit more time. If storing in the refrigerator, be diligent about using the dough within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.
No matter what storage method you use, keep the dough well sealed to prevent it from drying out. Refrigeration may lead to slight drying on the surface, so you may need to discard a small portion before use. Letting the dough come to room temperature before baking will allow for better rise.
What is the Best Way to Store Different Types of Biscuits?
There are many different types of biscuits, and methods may need to be adjusted slightly based on the dough recipe. Here are some tips:
Flaky Biscuits
Flaky biscuits contain pieces of cold butter or shortening that create layers. To prevent flattening:
- Wrap tightly and store flat in a single layer
- Refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze for 1-2 months
Drop Biscuits
Drop biscuits are made from soft dough. To maintain shape:
- Drop dough mounds onto a baking sheet
- Freeze solid on baking sheet
- Transfer to airtight containers or bags
Rolled Biscuits
Rolled dough can stick together when stored. Prevent this by:
- Cutting into shapes before storing
- Laying flat, separate from each other
- Storing layered between parchment or waxed paper
What Temperature Should You Store Biscuit Dough?
For both refrigerating and freezing, colder temperatures are better. Here are ideal storage temperatures:
- Refrigerator: 35-40°F
- Freezer: 0°F or below
The closer you can get the temperature to these ranges, the better. A freezer thermometer can help you monitor the temperature. Store biscuit dough towards the back of the refrigerator or freezer where temperatures tend to be most stable.
Avoid storing biscuit dough in the door of the refrigerator where temperature fluctuations can occur as the door is opened. This can lead to premature spoilage.
How Do You Thaw Frozen Biscuit Dough?
The proper way to thaw frozen biscuit dough is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. Allow the dough to come to room temperature before attempting to handle or bake it. This gradual thawing helps maintain texture and rise.
You can hasten the thawing process slightly by leaving dough on the counter for an hour or two once refrigerated, but do not thaw completely at room temperature. This shock from frozen to warm can damage the dough.
Check for any condensation when thawing and dry the dough surface gently with a paper towel. Too much moisture can result in soggy biscuits.
Some tips for thawing frozen biscuit dough:
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator
- Let come to room temperature for 1-2 hours after refrigerating
- Do not thaw completely at room temperature
- Gently dry any condensation
- Allow dough to proof again if needed
How Can You Tell if Biscuit Dough Has Gone Bad?
Check refrigerated or frozen biscuit dough carefully before use. Here are signs that biscuit dough has spoiled and should be discarded:
- Mold growth
- Strange odors like sourness or yeastiness
- Change in color
- Dry, cracked surface
- No rise when baked
Trust your senses – if refrigerated dough smells funny or feels excessively dry, it is best to play it safe and discard. For frozen dough, check that no freezer burn has occurred during storage.
If dough has proofed in storage, it may take on an airy, puffed appearance. This dough can still be used but may need additional leavening agents added when baking.
Does Biscuit Dough Go Bad Faster at Room Temperature?
Yes, biscuit dough will go bad much faster if left at room temperature instead of being refrigerated or frozen. Here’s a comparison:
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2-4 hours |
| Refrigerated | 3-5 days |
| Frozen | 1-2 months |
As you can see, dough left out at room temperature will spoil within hours. Even refrigeration buys you several days compared to hours at room temp. For best results, always refrigerate or freeze biscuit dough if not using right away.
Should You Refrigerate or Freeze Baked Biscuits?
Baked biscuits will also last longer in the refrigerator or freezer. Here are some guidelines:
- Room Temperature: 2-3 days in airtight container
- Refrigerator: 1 week in airtight container
- Freezer: 2-3 months in airtight freezer bag
To refresh refrigerated biscuits, heat at 300°F for 5-10 minutes. Frozen biscuits are best heated slowly at 325°F to recrisp without drying out.
Can You Refreeze Thawed Biscuit Dough?
It is not recommended to refreeze biscuit dough once it has thawed. Any condensation or moisture loss during initial thawing can deteriorate texture and rise. The dough may not rise as well or develop tunnels or holes during baking.
For best quality, thaw only the amount of dough you need and use immediately. You can safely bake and then re-freeze any leftovers.
If you must refreeze, thaw the dough completely in the refrigerator before freezing again. Rewrap in airtight plastic or place in freezer bags. However, quality very well may be reduced.
Conclusion
Storing extra biscuit dough is simple with a few handy methods. Keep dough well sealed and as cold as possible. Refrigeration allows use within 3-5 days, while freezing buys you 1-2 months. Thaw frozen dough overnight in the fridge before using.
Check for any signs of spoilage before baking. Biscuit dough keeps for only 2-4 hours at room temperature before going bad. With proper storage techniques, you can enjoy fresh homemade biscuits on demand.
