Strawberry Rhubarb Drop Biscuits Recipe

Strawberry Rhubarb Drop Biscuits Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Whether theyre plain or bejeweled with pieces of strawberry and rhubarb, drop biscuits are the easiest type of biscuits to make and feature a wonderfully tender, moist texture. So, whats the catch? Theyre not really biscuits. Or, at least theyre not like the classic, flaky, southern-style biscuits that most of us imagine when we think of biscuits. These are much more scone-like, which isnt an issue, unless you want an actual biscuit. But, these are easy to make, impressive to look at, and delicious to eat. Here are some notes from the chef:

Pantry staples: Self-rising flour would be ideal here, but regular flour and baking powder work just as well, giving almost identical results.

Fruity flavors: While other fruits could be used, the combination of strawberries and rhubarb is unbeatable, especially after macerating them.

Worthy of celebration: These would be a perfect addition to your Mothers Day brunch, or simply a wonderful treat for any day of the week.

So, whether you make these for a special occasion or as a quick weekday treat, I really hope you give them a try. Enjoy!

Ingredients

This recipe yields 10 servings.

Fruit Mixture:

  • 1 1/4 cups cubed rhubarb
  • 1 1/4 cups cubed strawberries
  • 2 tablespoons white sugar

Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) frozen unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup white sugar
  • 2 tablespoons reserved fruit syrup
  • 3/4 cup cold buttermilk

Egg Wash (optional):

  • 1 large egg (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons water (optional)

Lemon Icing Drizzle (optional):

  • 1/3 cup packed powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice, plus more as needed

Directions

  1. Cut the rhubarb ribs in half lengthwise and slice into 1/4-inch pieces. Place in a bowl. Add cubed strawberries and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Toss to combine, cover, and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to allow the fruit to macerate.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Drain the fruit in a strainer set over a bowl to catch the syrup. Reserve the syrup for later use.
  4. Grate the frozen butter into the flour mixture, stirring with a fork several times to coat the butter pieces with flour.
  5. Add 1/4 cup sugar and the drained fruit to the flour mixture. Stir gently with a fork until the fruit is coated with flour.
  6. Pour in 2 tablespoons of the reserved fruit syrup and the buttermilk. Stir just until the dough begins to come together. If the mixture is too dry, add a little more buttermilk. If its too wet and sticky, add more flour.
  7. Preheat the oven to 450F (230C) and line a baking sheet with a silpat mat or parchment paper.
  8. Scoop equal portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
  9. For the egg wash (optional), whisk together 1 large egg and 2 teaspoons water in a small bowl. Brush the tops of the biscuits with the egg wash and sprinkle with sugar.
  10. Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Transfer them to a wire rack and let them cool completely.
  11. For the lemon icing drizzle (optional), mix powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a small bowl. If necessary, add more lemon juice to reach the desired consistency. Fill a piping bag or a plastic bag with the tip cut off, and drizzle the icing over the cooled biscuits.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving: 233 calories

  • Fat: 10g (12% DV)
  • Saturated Fat: 6g (29% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 25mg (8% DV)
  • Sodium: 328mg (14% DV)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 34g (12% DV)
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g (5% DV)
  • Total Sugars: 12g
  • Protein: 4g (7% DV)
  • Vitamin C: 14mg (16% DV)
  • Calcium: 112mg (9% DV)
  • Iron: 1mg (8% DV)
  • Potassium: 135mg (3% DV)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Strawberry Rhubarb Drop Biscuits

Strawberry rhubarb drop biscuits trace their origins to the rustic kitchens of North America, where early settlers sought to combine the tartness of rhubarb with the natural sweetness of strawberries. Rhubarb, initially cultivated in Europe and brought to the Americas in the 18th century, was prized for its versatility in desserts. Over time, the combination of strawberries and rhubarb became a hallmark of spring and early summer baking, offering a balance of flavors that was both refreshing and comforting.

Regional Characteristics

While the recipe is popular throughout the United States, it has a particularly strong presence in New England and the Midwest, regions where rhubarb thrives in cooler climates. New England bakers often enhance the biscuits with a lemon glaze or zest, highlighting the bright, tart flavors that complement the naturally sweet strawberries. In contrast, Midwestern variations may feature a slightly heavier dough, creating a heartier, scone-like texture that holds up well to jams or butter.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Strawberry rhubarb drop biscuits differ from traditional Southern biscuits in both texture and preparation. Unlike the flaky, layered Southern biscuit, these drop biscuits are intentionally tender and cake-like, resembling a scone in structure. Compared to other fruit-based pastries such as muffins or quick breads, they are less dense and offer a more delicate crumb, allowing the fruit to remain prominent without sinking or overpowering the dough.

Where They Are Typically Served

These biscuits are commonly featured at brunch tables, springtime gatherings, and garden parties. Their visually appealing appearance, often dotted with vibrant red strawberries and deep pink rhubarb, makes them a centerpiece for celebrations. They are also a popular choice for breakfast alongside coffee or tea, or served warm with butter, clotted cream, or a drizzle of homemade lemon glaze for added indulgence.

Interesting Facts

  • The maceration of strawberries and rhubarb before baking enhances the fruit's natural juices, ensuring a moist interior without needing additional sweeteners.
  • Drop biscuits became popular as a time-saving alternative to rolled biscuits, eliminating the need for shaping while still delivering a tender, golden-baked treat.
  • The combination of strawberry and rhubarb is often referred to as a classic duo in American desserts, prized for its perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors.
  • In some regions, rhubarb is nicknamed the pie plant due to its frequent use in pies and tarts, yet it also shines in these lighter, biscuit-style desserts.
  • Strawberry rhubarb drop biscuits are versatile: they can be enjoyed plain, glazed, or even layered with cream for an impromptu shortcake.
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FAQ about Strawberry Rhubarb Drop Biscuits Recipe

Leftover strawberry rhubarb drop biscuits can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. For extended storage, you can freeze the biscuits for up to 3 months. Be sure to let them cool completely before storing or freezing.

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dough. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then freeze the biscuits. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you're ready to bake, place the frozen biscuits directly on a baking sheet and bake at the same temperature, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it by using regular milk and adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to the milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to sour. Alternatively, you can use yogurt thinned with a little water or milk as a substitute for buttermilk.

Yes, you can easily swap the strawberries and rhubarb for other fruits. Blueberries, blackberries, peaches, or even a mix of berries would work well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the maceration time depending on the fruit's juiciness.

The biscuits are done when they are golden brown on the edges and firm to the touch on top. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of one of the biscuits; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the biscuits are baked through.

The lemon icing is optional. It adds a sweet and tangy finishing touch, but the biscuits themselves are sweet enough to enjoy on their own. If you prefer a less sweet biscuit, you can skip the icing entirely.

Yes, you can reduce the sugar in both the dough and the fruit mixture if you prefer a less sweet biscuit. Keep in mind that the sweetness of the strawberries and rhubarb will provide some natural sweetness, so adjusting the sugar to your taste is perfectly fine.

Yes, you can skip the egg wash if you prefer. The egg wash gives the biscuits a golden, shiny finish, but the biscuits will still bake up deliciously without it. Just brush them with a bit of milk or cream if you want a softer top.

To reheat the biscuits, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are warmed through. Alternatively, you can wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 20-30 seconds, but be careful not to overheat them to avoid making them too dry.

Comments

dorishealey

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

Made these as per recipe but no egg wash and no icing (they are plenty sweet enough on their own). Very tasty!...and stay moist in a container, unlike typical scones. I don't have a scoop like his, so just used a spoon....the scoop would make better shaped biscuits. This makes about 12 so I froze some. Husband loved them.

GerryP

05/05/2025 12:16:03 AM

These things are awesome. We make them over and over again. The only change for me is less cook time and no egg wash/ icing

VividDish3537

10/28/2024 02:38:36 PM

I wish you more brilliance and continuity fitfixrecipes

Eric Martinez

04/13/2024 02:58:18 AM

This is comfort food done right.

leblancpenny

07/06/2023 08:56:26 PM

Delicious flavor. Followed the recipe but bake time was too long. I think 18 minutes and they were crispy on the outside and moist in the inside. For the icing, I used the rest of the reserved juice, lemon zest, lemon juice, and powered sugar. Delicious 😋

PurpleTuna5293

06/18/2023 07:50:28 PM

They were amazing. i thought they were too sticky before i cooked it, so i added more flour, still to sticky, so I threw them in the oven, and they were perfect... so don't worry about the texture going in the oven, they will come out perfect....i had to give everyone the recipe.

CKay

05/13/2023 09:35:07 PM

Great recipe. A good way to use up some rhubarb from the garden. These came out moist inside, crispy outside. Not overy sweet. I actually made 12 large biscuits (more than the 8-10 recipe states.) The only things I changed were substituting 1 tablespoon of lemon juice plus enough half and half to total 3/4 cup instead of buttermilk, and I skipped the egg wash. The recommended baking time at 450 degrees was a bit too long. They were well done in 20-21 minutes. Longer would have burnt. Perhaps I’ll try 25 minutes at 400 degrees next time. I will be making this again.