How many calories are in a regular size biscuit?

November 8, 2025 •

3 min read

A single plain, commercially baked buttermilk biscuit (2-1/2" dia) contains approximately 128 calories, according to USDA data. However, this number can vary drastically depending on the size, ingredients, and preparation method, making it essential to understand the different factors that influence how many calories are in a regular size biscuit.

Quick Summary

The calorie count of a biscuit varies widely based on its ingredients, size, and whether it's homemade or store-bought. Learn the average caloric content of different types of biscuits and how to make healthier choices. The article compares common options, from fast food chains to homemade recipes, and offers healthier alternatives.

Key Points

Average Calorie Count: A plain commercially baked biscuit (2.5" diameter) has approximately 128 calories, but this is a starting point, not a universal number.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought: Homemade biscuit calories are generally lower (~130 kcal) than many store-bought options, which are often larger and contain more fat and preservatives.
Fast Food Variation: Fast-food biscuits are calorie-dense, with a regular-size McDonald's biscuit containing 261 calories and a Popeyes biscuit having 207 calories due to added fats and size.
Factors Influencing Calories: Calories increase with larger sizes, and additions like butter, cheese, or savory toppings such as gravy. For instance, a biscuit with gravy can be very high in calories.
Healthier Alternatives: To reduce calories, use healthier ingredients like whole wheat flour, oat flour, or Greek yogurt in place of some butter. Practice portion control and be mindful of high-calorie spreads.
Reading Labels is Crucial: Always check the nutrition facts, especially for pre-packaged biscuits and fast-food items, to accurately determine the caloric and fat content.
Balanced Approach: Biscuits can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when eaten in moderation and with awareness of their caloric density and fat content.

Understanding the Caloric Content of Biscuits

Biscuits are a popular and comforting food, but their nutritional profile, especially their calorie content, can be surprising. The caloric value is not a fixed number; instead, it depends on several key factors, including the type of flour, fat, and any additional ingredients used. A typical, fluffy, American-style biscuit is rich in flour and fat, the main contributors to its high-calorie density. For example, the butter or shortening used to create that flaky texture is a significant source of calories.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Biscuits

There is a notable difference in the calorie counts of homemade and store-bought biscuits, mainly due to the ingredients and portion sizes. Homemade biscuits offer more control over what goes into them, allowing for potential calorie reduction.

Homemade: Recipes vary, but a basic homemade baking powder biscuit can contain around 130 calories. Using less butter or opting for healthier fats can lower this number further.
Store-Bought: Pre-made refrigerated dough often contains preservatives and higher amounts of fat and sodium. A single commercially baked buttermilk biscuit (2-1/2" dia) has around 128 calories, but this can increase depending on the brand.

Fast Food Biscuit Calorie Comparison

Fast food biscuits are a popular breakfast item, but their nutritional values are often much higher than homemade versions due to larger sizes and added ingredients. Here is a comparison of some popular options:


Fast Food Chain	Calories (per regular biscuit)	Notable Nutrition Facts
KFC	~180	High in sodium (~520mg)
Popeyes	~207	30% of daily saturated fat
McDonald's	~261	High in saturated fat (7g) and sodium (740mg)

As seen in the table, fast food biscuits are significantly higher in calories, saturated fat, and sodium compared to standard, smaller biscuits. For instance, a McDonald's biscuit contains roughly double the calories of a homemade one.

Factors That Increase a Biscuit's Calorie Count

Several factors can cause the calories in a regular size biscuit to rise above the average:

Added Butter or Gravy: The most significant increase comes from adding butter or topping it with gravy. A biscuit with sausage gravy can easily double or triple the caloric intake.
Cheese or Herbs: Adding cheese, bacon bits, or herbs to the dough will increase both calories and fat content.
Larger Serving Size: The term "regular size" is not universal. A large, fluffy biscuit can have a much higher calorie count than a smaller one.
Glaze or Sweet Toppings: Biscuits with a sugary glaze, like those in some fast-food menus, contain added sugar calories.

Healthier Biscuit Alternatives and Preparation Tips

For those watching their calorie intake, there are ways to enjoy biscuits in a healthier way or opt for alternatives.

Whole Wheat Flour: Swapping all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients, making the biscuit more filling and slightly reducing its glycemic index.
Use Yogurt or Low-Fat Milk: Substituting some of the fat with Greek yogurt or using low-fat milk can cut down on calories and saturated fat while maintaining moisture.
Mindful Portion Control: A single biscuit is a moderate snack, but consuming multiples, especially with fatty toppings, can lead to excess calorie intake.
Try Oat or Almond Flour: Recipes using alternative flours like oat or almond can increase fiber and healthy fats, with some requiring less butter.
Homemade is Best: Making your own biscuits allows for complete control over ingredients. A simple recipe with less butter or a healthy fat substitute is a great start.

Conclusion

While a standard buttermilk biscuit has a moderate calorie count, the number can escalate dramatically with larger portions, restaurant preparation, or added toppings like gravy. For a healthier approach, consider making biscuits at home, controlling portion sizes, and exploring whole-grain flour alternatives. Ultimately, knowing what goes into your biscuit is the best way to manage its impact on your daily caloric intake. Enjoying biscuits in moderation is key, especially if you are on a weight management diet.

For Further Reading

For more detailed nutritional information and alternative recipes, consider visiting Verywell Fit's comprehensive guide on biscuit nutrition. Visit Verywell Fit

Frequently Asked Questions

A McDonald's regular-size biscuit contains approximately 261 calories, while a Popeyes biscuit contains about 207 calories. These are often higher in calories, fat, and sodium than standard biscuits.

Generally, yes. Homemade biscuits often have lower calorie counts (around 130 kcal) because you have more control over the ingredients, such as reducing the amount of butter or using healthier substitutes.

The main sources of calories in a biscuit are typically carbohydrates from flour and fat from butter or shortening. These ingredients are essential for creating the flaky texture.

Not necessarily. While whole wheat biscuits offer more fiber and nutrients, they may not be significantly lower in calories. The key is to check the full nutrition label and compare fat and sugar content.

Biscuits can be included in a weight-loss diet if consumed in moderation. The key is mindful eating and portion control, as their high caloric density can add up quickly. Opt for homemade or healthier versions when possible.

To lower the calorie count, try substituting some of the butter with Greek yogurt or a healthier oil, use whole wheat flour for added fiber, and avoid high-calorie additions like cheese or excess butter.

Adding a tablespoon of butter can add over 100 calories to a biscuit. Spreads like butter or jam, and toppings like gravy, significantly increase the overall caloric intake.