Coconut Oil Biscuits with Fresh Strawberry Preserves: A Beginner’s Guide to a Perfect Homemade Treat

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There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked biscuits filling the kitchen. It evokes a sense of warmth, nostalgia, and the simple joy of homemade comfort food. Biscuits are a classic staple, but this recipe adds a unique twist by using coconut oil instead of butter. Paired with fresh strawberry preserves, these biscuits are light, flaky, and bursting with natural sweetness.

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I still remember my first attempt at making biscuits. The dough was too dry, the biscuits came out dense, and I nearly gave up on the idea of ever baking them again. But with practice, I learned a few simple tricks that made all the difference. The key was handling the dough gently and using chilled fat to create those irresistible flaky layers. This recipe simplifies the biscuit-making process while keeping the flavors rich and satisfying.

Perfect for beginners, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and comes together in just 20 minutes. The biscuits are light yet hearty, and the fresh strawberry preserves add a touch of natural sweetness without the need for artificial ingredients. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast with a cup of coffee or as a light dessert after dinner, these coconut oil biscuits are sure to become a household favorite.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Beginners

This recipe is designed with simplicity in mind, making it an excellent choice for those who may be intimidated by baking from scratch. The ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are straightforward. Here’s why it’s great for beginners:

1. Minimal Ingredients – No long lists of complicated items, just a few pantry staples.
2. Easy-to-Follow Steps – Clear instructions make it hard to go wrong.
3. Quick Preparation – Ready in just 20 minutes, with no long waiting times.
4. Healthy Twist – Coconut oil replaces traditional butter, making the biscuits dairy-free while still keeping them flaky and tender.
5. Versatile and Customizable – The preserves can be swapped for other fruits, and the biscuits can be enjoyed sweet or savory.

Ingredients and Alternatives

Coconut Oil Biscuits

• 2 cups white whole wheat flour (can substitute all-purpose flour for a lighter texture)
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 tablespoons coconut sugar or brown sugar (can use honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup coconut oil, chilled and finely chopped
• 1 cup milk (almond, oat, or regular milk all work well)

Fresh Strawberry Preserves

• 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries (can substitute with blueberries, raspberries, or peaches)
• 2 tablespoons coconut sugar or brown sugar (honey or maple syrup can be used instead)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Biscuits

1. Preheat the Oven – Set the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. This helps distribute the ingredients evenly.
3. Incorporate the Coconut Oil – Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, gently work the chilled coconut oil into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The small chunks of coconut oil will create pockets of flakiness in the biscuits.
4. Add the Milk – Pour in the milk and use a spatula to gently fold the dough until it starts to come together. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tough biscuits.
5. Shape the Dough – Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it gently a few times. Pat the dough into a 1-inch-thick slab.
6. Cut the Biscuits – Use a medium biscuit cutter to cut out rounds. For best results, press straight down without twisting the cutter. This helps the biscuits rise evenly.
7. Bake – Place the biscuits upside-down on the prepared baking sheet. This little trick encourages an even rise. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
8. Cool Slightly – Allow the biscuits to rest for a few minutes on a wire rack before serving.

Making the Fresh Strawberry Preserves

1. Mash the Strawberries – In a large bowl, use a fork or potato masher to crush the strawberries slightly.
2. Add Sweetener and Vanilla – Stir in the sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Let the Flavors Meld – Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes. The natural juices from the strawberries will combine with the sugar to create a simple, fresh sauce.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Making biscuits from scratch can feel intimidating, but a few simple techniques can ensure success:

1. Keep the Coconut Oil Cold – Chilled coconut oil mimics the effect of butter, creating layers in the biscuits. If it starts to soften, pop it in the freezer for a few minutes before using.
2. Avoid Overmixing – Stir the dough just until combined. Overworking the dough will result in dense biscuits.
3. Flour Your Biscuit Cutter – Lightly flouring the cutter will prevent the dough from sticking and help create clean edges.
4. Check for Doneness – The biscuits should be lightly golden on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
5. Enhance the Preserves – For a thicker consistency, simmer the strawberry mixture on the stove for a few minutes until it reduces slightly.

Serving Suggestions

These biscuits are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can elevate the experience:

1. With a Protein – Serve alongside scrambled eggs and pan-seared chicken strips for a balanced breakfast.
2. With Whipped Cream – A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream transforms these biscuits into a light dessert.
3. With Nut Butter – Spread almond or peanut butter on a warm biscuit for added richness.
4. With Yogurt – Enjoy with a side of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.
5. Savory Option – Skip the sugar in the biscuit dough and pair them with a warm beef stew or roasted vegetables.

Storage and Leftovers

1. Room Temperature – Store biscuits in an airtight container for up to two days.
2. Refrigeration – Keep the strawberry preserves in a sealed container in the fridge for up to five days.
3. Freezing – Biscuits freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to two months. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
4. Make-Ahead Tip – The biscuit dough can be prepared and shaped ahead of time. Store unbaked biscuits in the fridge for up to a day before baking.

Encouragement for First-Time Bakers

Baking biscuits from scratch is a skill worth learning. The process is simple, but the results are deeply rewarding. If your first batch isn’t perfect, don’t be discouraged. Each attempt teaches something new, and soon, making biscuits will feel effortless.

This recipe is designed to build confidence in the kitchen, showing that homemade baking can be approachable and enjoyable. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or saved for later, these coconut oil biscuits with strawberry preserves are a delicious way to embrace the art of home cooking.

If you try this recipe, share your experience in the comments. What variations did you try? Did you add a personal touch? Baking is all about creativity and sharing, and I’d love to hear how these biscuits turned out for you.