• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Recipe Index
  • Substitutes
  • Side Dishes
  • Dinner
  • Desserts
  • About Us

CooksCrafter

menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipe Index
  • Substitutes
  • Side Dishes
  • Dinner
  • Desserts
  • About Us
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipe Index
  • Substitutes
  • Side Dishes
  • Dinner
  • Desserts
  • About Us
×
Home » Cooking » Substitutes

Latest Updated: Jan 24, 2026 by Andrew Gray

7 Biscuit Cutter Alternatives You Can Use

Biscuit cutters? (a straight-sided round tool, typically metal or plastic, used to cut biscuit dough into uniform rounds) Nah, who needs 'em when there are so many cool alternatives!

Sometimes we roll out dough with a regular old glass. It works wonders!

Once, we improvised with a can, and it was pretty nifty. We've been in a pinch, looking around the kitchen, thinking creatively.

Different items offer different edges, some smooth, others ridged. We love mixing it up!

There was this one time an upside-down jar lid came to the rescue.

Turning everyday objects into baking tools can be super satisfying. It makes us feel like crafty baking geniuses.

So, trust us, those biscuit cutters aren't the only option in town.

7 Biscuit Cutter Alternatives You Can Use Save for Later!

Table of Contents

Toggle
  • 7 Easy Biscuit Cutter Substitutes to Use
    • 1 - Drinking Glass
    • 2 - Mason Jar Lid
    • 3 - Cookie Cutter
    • 4 - Empty Can
    • 5 - Shot Glass
    • 6 - Measuring Cup
    • 7 - Knife (for Freehand Cutting)
  • Frequently Asked Questions

7 Easy Biscuit Cutter Substitutes to Use

Here's our list of go-to biscuit cutter alternatives. All super easy and effective when it comes to cutting your dough into perfectly shaped circles.

1 - Drinking Glass

Drinking glasses make super handy dough cutters. We press the rim into the dough and voilà-perfect circles.

Different sizes of glasses offer diverse cut options (about 1.5-3.5 inches across).

Rocks glasses for bigger biscuits, shot glasses for mini treats.

Their smooth edges create crisp cuts. We find the shape consistent.

No jagged edges, just clean slices-no hassle. Simple and effective, gets the job done.

Easy to clean, which is a win.

Just grab one from the cabinet and start cutting.

Sturdy and reliable, most drinking glasses are up to the task. Plus, they double as drink vessels-useful twice over!

2 - Mason Jar Lid

Mason jar lids are nifty for cutting dough! We grab the rim and press-bam, circles!

Read more about  7 Coffee Creamer Substitutes: Elevate the Morning Brew

They create crisp, clean edges. No fancy tools, just lids.

They're sturdy, not flimsy.

Sizes vary, giving options (commonly 2-4 inches across).

Easy to clean after use, which is sweet. Lids are round, making perfectly round cuts.

Simple, straightforward function. Bonus: find these lids around the house.

They're ready when we are.

Our dough doesn't look different from an actual cutter's outcome. We get consistent results.

Who needs another tool when lids rock?!

3 - Cookie Cutter

Here's the magic of cookie cutters: they're not just for cookies. They shape dough into pleasant forms.

Our circles come out flawless with these.

Variety drives us wild with excitement. Shapes range from simple to detailed (from basic circles to intricate holiday molds).

Cookie cutters save time. They simplify cutting dough.

We enjoy easy cleaning after use. Material options keep us flexible.

Metal, plastic, silicone-they all work. We love keeping them handy during bakes.

Perfect for themed treats - triple chocolate cookie ideas for cravings

Think about the consistent results. No more lopsided creations with their help.

They're iconic in the baking world. Shapes remind us of festivities and joy.

They jazz up our baking process smoothly!

4 - Empty Can

Empty cans aren't just recycling bin fillers. We flip the lid for dough action.

Cans give us strong edges. Shapes pop smoothly.

With a little press, they cut dough cleanly.

Different size cans, different biscuit sizes (about 2 to 4 inches). Compact, easy to grab anytime.

Durable, free substitute. Just clean after use and store.

They handle firm dough too. No pressure, no sweat.

Economical win, no spending on extra tools, and cans even make a meal like 7-can taco soup for easy dinners.

Cans, a casual solution, right at home. They turn into dough heroes.

We can't outsmart their charm, they just work.

Read more about  5 Best Substitutes for Butter Beans: Enhance Culinary Game

5 - Shot Glass

Shot glasses are nifty biscuit cutters. They slice dough into circles.

We stack them up for mini treats. Compact size works for easy storage.

Just twist and cut, simple as that. They work best with light dough (softer, less-sticky batches).

Wide variety of sizes to choose from.

Fun and handy tool.

They're easy to clean. Use and rinse in seconds.

Great for small batches. Transform leftover dough into cute shapes.

Shot glasses are a reliable standby. Always up for the job.

We keep them within reach. They can surprise in a pinch.

Fun and functional little helpers.

6 - Measuring Cup

What's up? We use measuring cups as dough cutters.

Feel simple, works great. Grab the edge and press down.

You get nice circles (about 2-3 inches depending on cup). Better yet, they're all the same size.

Easy to clean afterward. Trust in everyday tools.

They read our minds. Arrange the dough like a pro.

Uniform slices make us grin.

Only downside, not for big dough. Fine for biscuits.

Win-win situation. We like our multipurpose items.

Bonus, they're already in the drawer; measuring cups even double as cutters for a recipe like shepherd's pie cup salad for a fresh twist.

Here's to dough precision!

7 - Knife (for Freehand Cutting)

We take a knife and go freehand with dough. This isn't tricky.

We cut our shapes as desired. Clean cuts relate to steady hands.

Size varies based on effort. No need for special tools.

Afterward, a quick wash keeps it simple. Not every slice looks the same.

We get creative. Thickness of the dough matters (aim for about ¾ inch for flaky layers).

Consistency helps too.

It's an artful method for sure. We refine our skills with each use.

Small corrections work wonders. Easy to grab anytime.

Tapping creativity, we shape dough as we wish. Somewhere between relaxed and precise is our sweet spot.

Read more about  5 Substitutes for Poultry Seasoning: Transform with Spice

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a drinking glass as a biscuit cutter?

Yes, a drinking glass works great for cutting biscuits-just ensure the rim is smooth and not too narrow.

How do I use a mason jar lid as a substitute for a biscuit cutter?

Simply use the flat side of the lid to press into the dough and cut perfect rounds-it's a great substitute for biscuit cutters.

Can a cookie cutter be used for making biscuits?

Yes, cookie cutters are perfect for creating fun-shaped biscuits, though they may result in smaller sizes than traditional cutters.

What's the best empty can substitute for a biscuit cutter?

Choose a clean, empty can with a smooth edge, and make sure it's the right size for your desired biscuit shape.

Can a shot glass be used to cut biscuits?

A shot glass works well for cutting smaller biscuits, especially if you want a more delicate size or shape.

How can I use a measuring cup as a biscuit cutter?

A measuring cup can act as a larger biscuit cutter, just flip it over and press into the dough for big, fluffy biscuits.

Can I cut biscuits freehand with a knife?

Yes, using a knife gives you more freedom to create irregularly shaped biscuits if you prefer a rustic look.

Explore more: This post is part of our Ingredient Substitutes Guide.
Andrew Gray - CooksCrafter founder
Andrew Gray

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.

His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.

Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.

More Substitutes

  • substitutes for Custard Powder
    7 Quick Substitutes for Custard Powder in Recipes
  • substitutes-for-Sunflower-Seed-Butter
    7 Sunflower Seed Butter Substitutes: Nourish the Recipes
  • substitutes-for-vegemite
    5 Easy Vegemite Substitutes: Jazz Up the Recipes
  • substitutes-for-udon-noodles
    6 Easy Udon Noodles Substitutes: Punch Up Flavors

Primary Sidebar

Andrew Gray - CooksCrafter founder

Hey, I'm Andrew!

Founder & Head of Content

14 years in professional kitchens. Now I help home cooks skip the guesswork with tested substitutes, smart shortcuts, and recipes that actually work.

My Story →

Trending Now

  • substitutes for Whipped Cream
    5 Easy Whipped Cream Substitutes for Desserts
  • substitutes-for-Mackerel
    7 Top Mackerel Substitutes: Intensify the Taste
  • substitutes-for-tuna
    6 Tasty Tuna Substitutes: Jazz Up Dishes
  • substitutes-for-Immersion-Blender
    5 Substitutes for Immersion Blender: Blend with Ease

Free Weekly Tips

Cook Smarter Every Week

Tested substitutes, quick recipes, and kitchen shortcuts — straight to your inbox every Tuesday.

Subscribe Free →

Seasonal Picks

  • 20 quick and nourishing vegan dinner rec l7aBS9mGSrKXTriAAyE2kw fc2d2LTeQTObmhYXFwpCRA
    20 Quick Nourishing Vegan Dinner Recipes
  • 20 recipes of delicious dinner ideas usi i CbEOhYQJm8qcOoDCYgnw zzTZAqAxSta28XHwINTrDg
    20 Delicious Dinner Ideas Using Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
  • 20 no oven dinner recipes to keep you co jNr3DSYLQy2oXFIWDwfYXA XwcIP4leRqquJhHrsxw2Ig
    20 No-Oven Dinner Recipes to Keep You Cool and Satisfied
  • Class food dinners meal b0iTLY70RauiD3fSsH5A4Q j2 uOpbmS1mqmLkRGwSvYg
    20 Classic Comfort Food Dinners Made Easy

Browse by Topic

  • Ingredient Substitutes877
  • Side Dishes288
  • Dinner Recipes257
  • Air Fryer232
  • Salads163
  • Desserts119

Footer

↑ back to top

About

  • About Us
  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclosure
  • Terms of Service

Newsletter

  • Sign Up! for emails and updates

Contact

  • Contact

Copyright © 2026 Cookscrafter