Is There Milk in Pillsbury Biscuits?

October 22, 2025 •

4 min read

According to product ingredient lists, many varieties of Pillsbury biscuits, particularly the buttermilk versions, do contain milk ingredients. If you're wondering, "Is there milk in Pillsbury biscuits?" the answer often depends on the specific product line, as some may not contain milk or are labeled as potentially containing milk.

Quick Summary

The inclusion of milk in Pillsbury biscuits varies by product, with most buttermilk recipes containing dairy ingredients. Some original and flaky varieties may be dairy-free by ingredient but might still contain cross-contamination warnings. Always check the specific product label for the most accurate and up-to-date allergen information to confirm if it contains milk.

Key Points

Buttermilk Varieties Contain Milk: Most Pillsbury biscuits explicitly labeled 'Buttermilk' contain dairy ingredients like buttermilk or dried buttermilk.
Not All Biscuits Contain Milk: Some 'Original' or 'Southern Homestyle' varieties may not list dairy in the primary ingredients, but recipes can change.
Cross-Contamination is a Risk: Certain Pillsbury products may carry a "may contain milk ingredients" warning, indicating a risk of cross-contamination during manufacturing.
Always Read the Label: For severe dairy allergies or vegan diets, always check the specific product label's ingredient and allergen section for the most current information.
Dairy-Free Alternatives Exist: For guaranteed dairy-free options, homemade recipes using vegan milk and butter substitutes, or store-brand vegan alternatives, are the safest choice.
Pillsbury Website is a Resource: The official Pillsbury website can provide specific ingredient information for various products.

Do All Pillsbury Biscuits Contain Milk?

No, not all Pillsbury biscuit products contain milk, but many do, especially those explicitly labeled as 'Buttermilk.' The ingredients differ significantly across various product lines, from frozen dough to refrigerated cans. For example, some 'Southern Homestyle' or 'Original' flaky layer biscuits may lack dairy in the main ingredients, but a crucial warning may exist about potential milk cross-contamination during manufacturing. This means individuals with severe dairy allergies should exercise caution and read every label carefully.

Why Different Biscuits Have Different Ingredients

Pillsbury, a brand owned by General Mills, produces a wide array of baked goods to appeal to different tastes and dietary needs. The variation in recipes for items like 'Flaky Layers' versus 'Grands! Homestyle' allows them to create different textures and flavor profiles. Buttermilk is a key ingredient for many biscuits, providing a distinct tangy flavor and tender crumb, making dairy a necessary component for those specific products.

Decoding Pillsbury Biscuit Labels for Milk

Understanding food labels is critical for those with dietary restrictions. Here's a breakdown of what to look for when checking for milk in Pillsbury biscuits:

Buttermilk: If the product name includes 'Buttermilk,' you can be almost certain it contains dairy. Ingredients often include buttermilk or dried buttermilk.
Original/Flaky Layers: These are the most likely candidates for being dairy-free by ingredient, but it's not a guarantee. Check the allergen warning section for any "may contain milk" disclaimers.
Ingredient List: Always scan the full ingredient list. Milk can appear in many forms, such as dried milk, whey, casein, or lactose. Also, look for preservatives or additives that can be milk-derived, though this is less common.
Allergen Warning: This is the most reliable indicator for those with severe allergies. The warning "Contains Milk and Wheat Ingredients" is common on many Pillsbury products.

What are the 'Accidentally Vegan' Pillsbury biscuits?

Interestingly, some Pillsbury biscuits have been noted by the vegan community as being 'accidentally vegan,' meaning they contain no animal-derived products, including milk. A few popular varieties, such as the Pillsbury Grands! Southern Homestyle Original Biscuits, have reportedly had dairy-free recipes in the past. However, this is not a permanent status, as recipes can change without major product name alterations. For example, a version of Flaky Layers Original Biscuits once had no milk, but a newer variant contains a "may contain milk" warning. This highlights the importance of checking ingredients every time you purchase, especially for those with serious allergies or strict vegan diets.

Comparison of Pillsbury Biscuit Varieties

This table illustrates the common differences in milk content across various Pillsbury biscuit products. Note: Ingredients can change, so always verify with the product packaging.


Biscuit Type	Contains Milk?	Typical Dairy Form	Common Allergens	Notes
Grands! Buttermilk	Yes	Buttermilk, Milk Ingredients	Wheat, Milk	Specifically includes buttermilk for flavor and texture.
Flaky Layers Buttermilk	Yes	Buttermilk	Wheat, Milk	Contains buttermilk and is not dairy-free.
Grands! Homestyle Original	May Contain	Potential Cross-Contamination	Wheat, Soy, Milk (Potential)	Recipe variations exist; some versions have a 'may contain milk' warning.
Homestyle Biscuit Mix	Yes (Mix)	Dried Buttermilk	Wheat, Milk	The dry mix itself contains dried buttermilk.
Pillsbury Crescent Rolls	Some are Dairy-Free	Not Applicable	Wheat, Soy	Certain varieties are known to be 'accidentally vegan' but labels must be checked.

Alternatives for Dairy-Free Biscuit Lovers

If Pillsbury biscuits containing dairy are not an option, there are several alternatives. Many grocery stores offer their own brand of refrigerated biscuits, with some being dairy-free. Additionally, there are numerous homemade recipes available that use plant-based milk alternatives and vegan butter. You can use a boxed biscuit mix and substitute milk with your preferred dairy alternative. Brands like Bisquick also have specific recipes that can be made dairy-free.

Making Your Own Dairy-Free Biscuits

For those who enjoy baking, creating your own dairy-free biscuits from scratch is a rewarding option. It gives you full control over the ingredients and ensures there's no cross-contamination. Most recipes involve these simple swaps:

Buttermilk: Use a plant-based milk (like almond or soy milk) and add a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice to create a vegan buttermilk substitute.
Butter: Use a high-quality vegan butter stick, ensuring it's cold before cutting it into the flour.
Shortening: Vegetable shortening is a reliable option for creating flaky layers and is naturally dairy-free.

Conclusion: Always Verify the Label

While many people assume all Pillsbury biscuits are a simple, standard product, the presence of milk is not universal across the entire product line. Buttermilk varieties almost certainly contain dairy, while other types like 'Original' or 'Southern Homestyle' may vary and often carry cross-contamination warnings. The most important takeaway for anyone with a dairy allergy or intolerance is to always read the current product label before purchasing. Recipes are subject to change, and what was once a dairy-free option might be reformulated later. For complete peace of mind, consider homemade dairy-free recipes or specifically marked vegan alternatives. For more information on ingredients, you can visit the official Pillsbury website.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all Pillsbury biscuits are dairy-free. Many, especially those labeled 'Buttermilk,' contain dairy ingredients. Others, while potentially dairy-free by ingredient, may have warnings for milk cross-contamination.

Yes, Pillsbury Flaky Layers Buttermilk biscuits contain dairy. The Original variety has had recipe changes, and some versions now carry a 'may contain milk ingredients' warning, so it is essential to check the label.

Some versions of Pillsbury's refrigerated biscuits, specifically certain 'Southern Homestyle Original' varieties, have been noted by the vegan community as 'accidentally vegan'. However, this is not guaranteed, and ingredient labels should be checked carefully before purchase.

The primary difference is the inclusion of buttermilk in the Buttermilk variety, which provides a distinct tangy flavor and tender texture. The Original version typically has a more straightforward, savory flavor profile, but may still vary in its dairy-free status.

People with a milk allergy should be extremely cautious. Buttermilk biscuits are not safe, and many other varieties carry a cross-contamination warning. It is safest to avoid them or use a guaranteed dairy-free alternative.

The type of milk varies, but most often it is dried buttermilk used in the Buttermilk product lines. In other products, milk may appear as whey, casein, or be part of a cross-contamination warning.

Yes, product formulations and recipes for Pillsbury biscuits can change over time. This means a variety that was once dairy-free may not be anymore, making it crucial to read the label every time you buy it.