⭐ Unsalted Butter (Best Gluten-Free Option)
1:1 by volume (e.g., 1/4 cup butter for 1/4 cup coconut oil)Butter works well because it is about 80% fat and 15-18% water, which helps steam leaven the biscuits, contributing to flakiness. The solid fat at room temperature is essential for creating layers in the dough.
For best results, keep butter cold and cut it into the flour quickly to prevent melting, which preserves the biscuit’s flaky texture. Avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness.
Compared to coconut oil, butter imparts a richer flavor and slightly more tender crumb, though biscuits may brown more quickly due to milk solids.