Tired of choosing between delicious breakfast and meeting your protein goals? Protein Biscuits are about to revolutionize your morning routine with fluffy, buttery goodness packed with muscle building nutrition. These tender, flaky biscuits deliver 8 grams of protein each without sacrificing the classic comfort food taste you crave.
Hi there, I’m Simon, and my quest for the perfect Protein Biscuits started on a particularly hectic Monday morning. I needed something substantial, portable, and protein rich that didn’t taste like cardboard. Megan Carter, my pastry genius, was skeptical Protein powder in biscuits? That’s a disaster waiting to happen,” she warned. But we experimented anyway, testing twelve different batches until we found the magical ratio. Jackson Reed contributed his grandmother’s secret butter-folding technique, while Olivia Brooks convinced us to add Greek yogurt for tang and extra protein. After one memorable “hockey puck incident” (we don’t talk about batch #7), we finally created biscuits so good, you’d never guess they’re secretly healthy.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover how to incorporate protein powder without creating dense, chalky biscuits, master the art of achieving perfect flaky layers, and explore variations that keep breakfast exciting. We’ll cover ingredient selection, folding techniques, and troubleshooting tips that guarantee bakery-worthy results every single time.
Why This Protein Biscuits Recipe Works
These Protein Biscuits deliver exceptional nutrition without compromising the tender, buttery texture that makes traditional Southern biscuits irresistible.
- Packs 8g protein per biscuit – Supports muscle recovery and keeps you satisfied until lunch
- Uses affordable whey or plant-based protein powder – No specialty ingredients or expensive supplements required
- Ready in 25 minutes – Faster than most protein-packed breakfast options
- Freezer-friendly for meal prep – Bake once, enjoy homemade protein-rich biscuits for weeks
- Versatile base for sweet or savory applications – Pair with eggs, use for breakfast sandwiches, or top with fruit and yogurt
- Kid-approved taste – Even picky eaters won’t detect the protein boost
Choosing the Right Protein Powder for Protein Biscuits
The protein powder you select dramatically impacts texture, flavor, and overall success of your Protein Biscuits.
Best Protein Powders for This Recipe
Unflavored whey protein isolate is our top recommendation for Protein Biscuits because it blends seamlessly into baked goods without adding unwanted sweetness or artificial flavors. The fine texture incorporates smoothly, and the neutral taste lets butter and buttermilk flavors shine.
Why unflavored whey wins:
- Dissolves completely without grittiness
- Doesn’t compete with savory or sweet additions
- Contains complete amino acid profile for optimal nutrition
- Creates tender crumb when properly balanced with flour
Alternative protein options:
- Vanilla whey protein – Adds subtle sweetness; reduce sugar in recipe by 1 tablespoon
- Plant-based protein (pea, rice, or blend) – Works beautifully for dairy-free versions; may need extra liquid (add 1-2 tablespoons)
- Casein protein – Creates denser texture; mix with 50% whey for best results
- Egg white protein – Excellent neutral option but can dry out biscuits; increase butter by 1 tablespoon
Buying Tips for Protein Biscuits Ingredients
Protein powder selection:
- Check the ingredient list – Fewer additives means cleaner taste and better baking performance
- Avoid highly sweetened varieties – They throw off the sweet-savory balance in biscuits
- Look for fine texture – Grainy protein powders create unpleasant mouthfeel
- Choose reputable brands – Quality matters for consistent results batch after batch
Flour selection:
- All-purpose flour works best – Provides structure without toughness
- Avoid self-rising flour – We’re controlling leavening agents precisely
- Fresh baking powder is critical – Test by adding ½ teaspoon to hot water; it should bubble vigorously
Butter quality:
- Use real, unsalted butter – Margarine creates greasy, inferior texture
- Keep it cold – Frozen butter grates easily and creates maximum flakiness
- European-style butter (optional upgrade) – Higher fat content yields richer flavor
Substitutions for Protein Biscuits
If you don’t have buttermilk: Mix 1 cup whole milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar. Let sit for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Greek yogurt thinned with milk (¾ cup yogurt + ¼ cup milk) also works perfectly.
For dairy-free Protein Biscuits: Use plant-based protein powder, substitute cold coconut oil or vegan butter for dairy butter, and use almond or oat milk with 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar as buttermilk replacement.
For gluten-free version: Replace all-purpose flour with 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Add 1 teaspoon xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t include it. Results will be slightly denser but still delicious.
Ingredients & Prep for Protein Biscuits

Dry Ingredients for Protein Biscuits
Core dry mixture:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unflavored whey protein isolate powder
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (balances flavors)
Why these proportions matter: The 4:1 flour-to-protein ratio ensures biscuits rise properly while maximizing protein content. Too much protein powder creates dense, chalky results. This balance delivers light, tender texture with substantial nutrition.
Wet Ingredients and Fats for Protein Biscuits
Essential components:
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter (1 stick), cut into small cubes
- ¾ cup cold buttermilk
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (adds protein, tang, and tenderness)
- 1 large egg (brushed on top for golden color)
Temperature is everything: Keep butter and liquids refrigerator-cold until the moment you use them. Cold fat creates steam pockets during baking, resulting in those coveted flaky layers.
Pantry Staples for Protein Biscuits
Must-haves:
- Parchment paper for easy cleanup and prevention of sticking
- Bench scraper or knife for cutting butter into flour
- Biscuit cutter (2.5-3 inch diameter) or drinking glass
- Pastry brush for egg wash
Optional flavor boosters:
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, chives, thyme) for savory versions
- Shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness
- Everything bagel seasoning for topping
- Honey for drizzling on sweet versions
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Protein Biscuits

Pre-Cooking Prep for Protein Biscuits
Essential preparation steps:
- Preheat oven to 425°F – High temperature creates the steam necessary for dramatic rise and flaky layers. Place rack in upper third of oven.
- Freeze your butter – Cut cold butter into small cubes and place in the freezer for 10 minutes while preparing other ingredients. This extra step guarantees maximum flakiness.
- Prepare baking sheet – Line with parchment paper or silicone baking mat. Avoid greasing, which can affect browning.
- Mix dry ingredients thoroughly – Whisk together flour, protein powder, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. This ensures even distribution and prevents protein clumps.
- Combine wet ingredients separately – Whisk buttermilk and Greek yogurt together in a measuring cup. Keep refrigerated until ready to use.
Cooking Method for Protein Biscuits
Step 1: Cut in the butter (3-4 minutes) Remove butter from freezer. Using a pastry cutter, two knives, or your fingers, work butter into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces visible. Don’t overwork—those butter chunks create flaky layers. If using your hands, work quickly to prevent butter from warming.
Step 2: Add wet ingredients (1 minute) Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour in the buttermilk-yogurt mixture all at once. Use a fork to gently stir, bringing the mixture together just until a shaggy dough forms. The dough should look rough and barely combined—this is correct! Overmixing develops gluten, creating tough biscuits.
Step 3: Fold the dough (5 minutes) Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat into a rectangle about 1-inch thick. Fold dough in thirds like a letter. Turn 90 degrees, pat back into a rectangle, and fold again. Repeat this process 4-5 times total. This lamination technique creates those beautiful, flaky layers.
Step 4: Cut the biscuits (3 minutes) Pat dough into a ¾-inch thick round or rectangle. Using a 2.5-3 inch biscuit cutter, press straight down without twisting twisting seals edges and prevents rise. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet with sides touching for soft sides, or 2 inches apart for crispy edges.
Step 5: Apply egg wash Beat 1 egg with 1 tablespoon water. Brush gently over the tops of biscuits. This creates that gorgeous golden-brown color.
Step 6: Bake (12-15 minutes) Bake in preheated 425°F oven for 12-15 minutes until tops are deep golden brown and biscuits have risen significantly. They should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Total time: 25 minutes (10 prep, 15 baking)
Doneness Check for Protein Biscuits
Your Protein Biscuits are perfectly baked when:
- Internal temperature reaches 200-205°F – Insert instant-read thermometer into the center
- Tops are deep golden brown – Not pale yellow, but rich golden color
- Bottoms are lightly browned – Lift one to check; pale bottoms indicate underbaking
- They sound hollow when tapped – Properly baked biscuits have light, airy interior
- Sides have separated slightly – You can see distinct layers when viewing from the side
Cooling for Protein Biscuits
Transfer baked Protein Biscuits to a wire rack immediately. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving—this allows the structure to set while keeping them warm enough to melt butter. They’re absolutely divine served warm, when the exterior is slightly crisp and the interior is tender and steamy.
Pro Tips for Perfect Protein Biscuits
Avoiding Common Mistakes with Protein Biscuits
Dense, heavy texture problem:
- Use cold ingredients – Warm butter melts before baking, eliminating flaky layers
- Don’t overmix – Mix just until combined; lumpy dough is perfect dough
- Measure protein powder correctly – Spoon and level rather than scooping, which compacts powder
Dry, crumbly biscuits issue:
- Don’t skip the Greek yogurt – It adds moisture and extra protein
- Check your protein powder – Some absorb more liquid; add 1-2 tablespoons extra buttermilk if dough seems dry
- Avoid overbaking – Pull them when just golden, not deep brown
Biscuits don’t rise:
- Test baking powder freshness – Old leavening agents don’t work
- Don’t twist the cutter – Press straight down to allow proper rise
- Oven temperature matters – Use an oven thermometer to verify accuracy
Protein taste is too strong:
- Use unflavored protein powder – Flavored varieties can taste chalky in baked goods
- Balance with butter and salt – Fat and salt mask protein flavor
- Add savory toppings – Cheese, herbs, or everything bagel seasoning distract from any protein taste
Tool Recommendations for Protein Biscuits
Essential equipment:
- Pastry cutter or food processor – Makes cutting butter into flour effortless
- Metal biscuit cutters – Sharp edges cut cleanly without sealing layers
- Bench scraper – Perfect for folding dough and cleaning work surface
- Instant-read thermometer – Takes guesswork out of doneness
- Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup simple
Nice to have:
- Silicone baking mat – Reusable, eco-friendly alternative to parchment
- Pastry brush – For applying egg wash evenly
- Kitchen scale – For precise protein powder measurement
Storage & Reheating Protein Biscuits
Room temperature storage: Store cooled Protein Biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days. Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll stay tender but lose some crisp exterior.
Refrigerator storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The protein content helps them stay fresh longer than traditional biscuits. Bring to room temperature before reheating for best texture.
Freezing instructions (our favorite method):
Freeze unbaked: Cut biscuits, place on parchment-lined sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3-5 extra minutes. This gives you fresh-baked biscuits anytime!
Freeze baked: Cool completely, wrap individually in plastic wrap, store in freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator.
Reheating methods:
Oven (best for texture): Wrap in foil and heat at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave (fastest): Wrap in damp paper towel, heat for 20-30 seconds at 50% power.
Toaster oven: Split biscuit in half, toast for 2-3 minutes until edges crisp and interior warms.
Flavor Variations for Protein Biscuits
Savory Protein Biscuits
Transform your Protein Biscuits into flavor-packed breakfast or dinner sides:
Cheddar and Chive:
- Fold in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking
- Perfect for breakfast sandwiches or alongside soup
Everything Bagel Protein Biscuits:
- Top unbaked biscuits with 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
- Serve with cream cheese for a protein-packed breakfast
- Makes incredible breakfast sandwich base
Herb and Garlic:
- Mix in 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary (or 2 teaspoons dried), 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, and 2 cloves minced garlic
- Brush with garlic butter after baking
- Outstanding with eggs or as dinner rolls
Jalapeño Cheddar:
- Add 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese and 2 diced jalapeños (seeds removed)
- Spicy kick perfect for brunch
- Pairs beautifully with scrambled eggs
Sweet Protein Biscuits
Cinnamon Sugar:
- Increase sugar in dough to 3 tablespoons
- Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture
- Drizzle with vanilla glaze (powdered sugar + milk + vanilla)
Blueberry Lemon:
- Use vanilla protein powder
- Fold in ¾ cup fresh blueberries and 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- Top with lemon glaze
Chocolate Chip:
- Use vanilla or chocolate protein powder
- Fold in ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- Increase sugar to 3 tablespoons
Dietary Variations for Protein Biscuits
Keto/Low-Carb Protein Biscuits:
- Replace all-purpose flour with 2 cups almond flour
- Use unflavored whey isolate (zero carb)
- Reduce sugar to 1 teaspoon or use erythritol
- Add 1 teaspoon xanthan gum for structure
- Net carbs: Approximately 4g per biscuit
Vegan Protein Biscuits:
- Use plant-based protein powder (pea, rice, or hemp)
- Substitute cold coconut oil or vegan butter
- Replace buttermilk with plant milk + vinegar
- Use flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water) instead of egg wash
- Replace Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt
Protein Biscuits Variations Comparison Table
| Variation | Protein per Biscuit | Key Ingredients | Best Served With | Texture Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Protein Biscuits | 8g | Whey protein, buttermilk | Butter, jam, eggs | Flaky, tender |
| Cheddar Chive | 10g | Sharp cheddar, fresh chives | Breakfast sandwiches, soup | Rich, savory |
| Everything Bagel | 8g | Everything seasoning | Cream cheese, smoked salmon | Crispy exterior, fluffy inside |
| Keto Low-Carb | 9g | Almond flour, whey isolate | Sugar-free jam, butter | Dense, nutty |
| Vegan Plant-Based | 7g | Pea protein, coconut oil | Vegan butter, avocado | Slightly denser, flavorful |
| Cinnamon Sugar | 8g | Vanilla protein, cinnamon | Coffee, Greek yogurt | Sweet, cake-like |
| Blueberry Lemon | 8g | Vanilla protein, fresh berries | Honey, yogurt | Fruity, moist |
Serving Suggestions for Protein Biscuits
Transform your Protein Biscuits into complete, satisfying meals with these creative serving ideas.
Classic breakfast combinations:
- Split and top with scrambled eggs and sliced avocado – Complete protein breakfast with healthy fats
- Breakfast sandwich – Add fried egg, cheese, and turkey sausage between biscuit halves
- Traditional Southern style – Serve warm with butter, honey, or fruit preserves
- Biscuits and gravy – Top with turkey or vegetarian sausage gravy for hearty meal
Protein-packed pairings:
- Greek yogurt and berries – Sweet version becomes healthy dessert or snack
- Smoked salmon and cream cheese – Everything bagel biscuits shine here
- Almond butter and banana slices – Kid-friendly, energy-boosting combo
- Cottage cheese and sliced tomatoes – Savory, high-protein lunch option
Complete meal ideas:
- Soup and biscuits – Pair savory herb biscuits with tomato soup, chicken soup, or chili
- Salad accompaniment – Serve cheddar chive biscuits alongside Caesar or Greek salad
- Stew topper – Drop biscuit dough on beef stew for protein-rich pot pie effect
- BBQ side – Herb biscuits complement grilled chicken or pulled turkey
Beverage pairings:
- Morning coffee or tea – Classic pairing that never disappoints
- Protein shake – Double down on protein for post-workout recovery
- Fresh-squeezed orange juice – Vitamin C enhances biscuits’ flavor
- Cold milk – Dunking sweet cinnamon biscuits is pure comfort
Creative serving ideas: Make biscuit sliders with turkey meatballs and marinara, create strawberry shortcake with sweet protein biscuits and whipped cream, use as base for eggs Benedict with hollandaise, or serve as dinner rolls with herb butter.
FAQs About Protein Biscuits
Can I make Protein Biscuits without protein powder? Yes, but they won’t be “protein biscuits” anymore just regular biscuits. Replace the ½ cup protein powder with ½ cup additional all-purpose flour. Each biscuit will have about 3g protein instead of 8g.
Why are my Protein Biscuits dense and heavy? Three common causes: overmixing the dough (develops tough gluten), warm ingredients (melted butter can’t create steam pockets), or too much protein powder (disrupts proper ratio). Always mix just until combined and keep everything cold.
Can I use flavored protein powder? Yes, but choose carefully. Vanilla works beautifully in sweet variations. Chocolate can work but makes biscuits brown/gray colored. Avoid artificial fruit flavors or anything too sweet, which overwhelms the biscuit taste. Unflavored remains most versatile.
How do I prevent protein powder grittiness? Use high-quality whey protein isolate with fine texture, sift protein powder with dry ingredients before mixing, don’t exceed the ½ cup measurement, and incorporate wet ingredients gently overmixing highlights graininess.
Are Protein Biscuits safe for pregnant women? Yes, when fully baked to proper internal temperature. Protein powder is safe during pregnancy (consult your doctor about daily protein intake). Avoid raw dough due to raw flour and eggs.
Can I double this recipe? Absolutely! Double all ingredients and follow the same process. You may need to work in two batches when folding dough, as a very large mass becomes unwieldy. Baking time remains the same.
What if I don’t have buttermilk? Create a buttermilk substitute: Mix 1 cup whole milk with 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice. Let sit 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Works perfectly every time.
How can I make Protein Biscuits flakier? Keep everything cold (freeze butter, use ice-cold liquids), don’t overwork the dough, do the folding technique (lamination) at least 4-5 times, avoid twisting your biscuit cutter, and bake at high temperature (425°F).
Can I prep the dough ahead of time? Yes! Cut unbaked biscuits and freeze on a sheet, then transfer to freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3-5 extra minutes. Or refrigerate cut biscuits for up to 24 hours before baking let sit at room temp for 10 minutes first.
What’s the best protein powder for baking? Unflavored whey protein isolate offers the cleanest taste and smoothest texture. It incorporates easily and doesn’t compete with other flavors. Plant-based proteins work too but may require slight liquid adjustments.
Conclusion
Protein Biscuits prove you don’t have to sacrifice taste for nutrition. These fluffy, buttery biscuits deliver serious protein without the chalky texture or artificial flavors found in many high-protein baked goods. With simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, you’ll create bakery-worthy results that fuel your day.
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Protein Biscuits 7 Incredible Ways To Boost Your Morning Energy
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 10 biscuits 1x
Description
Fluffy, protein-packed breakfast biscuits with 9g protein per serving. Perfect for meal prep, these tender biscuits combine the comfort of traditional baking with nutritious ingredients to fuel your morning. Ready in just 25 minutes!
Ingredients
1½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unflavored whey protein isolate
2 tablespoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
¾ cup unsalted chicken broth (or milk)
¼ cup Greek yogurt
1 large egg
Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh chopped herbs
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, protein powder, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder in a large bowl.
3. Grate cold butter using a box grater and toss into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, Greek yogurt, and egg until smooth.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir gently with a wooden spoon just until combined.
6. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and pat into a 1-inch thick rectangle.
7. Fold dough over itself 3-4 times to create layers, then pat back to 1-inch thickness.
8. Cut biscuits using a 2.5-inch biscuit cutter, pressing straight down without twisting.
9. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, brush tops with melted butter.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 190°F.
11. Cool on baking sheet for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
12. Serve warm with butter or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Notes
For fluffier biscuits, keep all ingredients cold and work quickly to prevent butter from melting.
Don’t overmix the dough—visible flour streaks are okay and will hydrate during baking.
If dough feels dry, add chicken broth 1 tablespoon at a time until it comes together.
These biscuits freeze beautifully—flash freeze unbaked and bake from frozen, adding 3-4 minutes.
For sweet versions, replace chicken broth with milk and add 2 tablespoons honey plus 1 tablespoon cinnamon.
Nutritional values are for classic version without optional add-ins.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 biscuit
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 320
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Unsaturated Fat: 2
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 16
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 9
- Cholesterol: 30
Keywords: protein biscuits, breakfast biscuits, high protein breakfast, meal prep biscuits, healthy biscuits
