Cheddar Biscuits

Hey there! I’m thrilled to share a delightful recipe that’s been a staple in my kitchen for years: Cheddar Biscuits. There’s something so heartwarming about the smell of fresh-baked biscuits wafting through the house, isn’t there? These biscuits remind me of lazy Sunday mornings when I’d whip them up for my family. My kids would always rush down to get the first one, and I can’t blame them—the combination of cheddar and buttery goodness is just irresistible.

How to Make Cheddar Biscuits

Click here to get printable version

Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (stirred, scooped, leveled)
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 2 tsp granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold or frozen
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (or spicy gouda cheese)
• 3/4 cup cold buttermilk
• 2 tbsp buttermilk or cream (to brush the tops)
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 garlic clove, pressed or finely minced
• 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Grate the cold butter directly into this flour mixture, ensuring each piece of butter is coated with flour.
2. Add shredded cheddar cheese into the dry mixture and toss gently to integrate the cheese evenly.
3. Pour in the buttermilk gradually while stirring with a fork, until the mixture forms a shaggy dough. Be careful not to overmix; you want it to be just combined.
4. On a floured surface, press the dough into a 1-inch thick disk. Fold it like an envelope three times to create flaky layers, rotating the dough 90 degrees between each fold.
5. Shape the dough into a 1-inch thick rectangle, about 7″x5″. Cut it into six rectangles with a firm downward motion, taking care to maintain the layers.
6. Place the cut biscuits on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill in the freezer for 10-15 minutes. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
7. Brush the tops with buttermilk or cream. Bake the biscuits in the oven for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve warm and enjoy!

Ingredient Tweaks for Your Pantry

If you’re missing a few ingredients, there are easy swaps you can make without losing the essence of these Cheddar Biscuits. No buttermilk? Use regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Out of cheddar? Any melty cheese like mozzarella or a sharp gouda will do wonders. If you’re watching your salt intake, consider using a lower-sodium cheese variant.

Preserving Cheddar Biscuits for Later Enjoyment

To keep your Cheddar Biscuits fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, and they’ll taste as good as new.

Perfect Pairings for Cheddar Biscuits

These Cheddar Biscuits are wonderfully versatile and can be served in various ways. Enjoy them alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon for a hearty breakfast. They also complement a bowl of creamy tomato soup or a green salad for a light lunch. For a complete southern meal, pair them with fried chicken and honey butter.

Secrets to Perfecting Cheddar Biscuits

To ensure your biscuits rise beautifully, make sure your butter is very cold before incorporating it into the flour mixture. Use a fork to mix the dough initially to avoid warming the butter with your hands. Also, don’t skip the folding step; it’s crucial for creating those lovely flaky layers. Finally, bake them on the middle rack to ensure even cooking.

How to Make Cheddar Biscuits Shine in Any Season

In the summer, add fresh chives or jalapeños for a spicy kick. During fall, incorporate pumpkin puree for a unique twist. In winter, serve them with a cranberry butter spread. In spring, you might try adding a touch of lemon zest to brighten up the flavors. Each season brings a new opportunity to tweak this classic recipe.

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, you can use any cheese that melts well, like mozzarella or a spicy pepper jack. Each will give the biscuits a unique flavor twist. Just ensure it’s a cheese you enjoy, as it will heavily influence the biscuit’s taste.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

If you’re out of buttermilk, create a substitute by mixing regular milk with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. This will mimic buttermilk’s tangy flavor and help achieve the desired texture in your biscuits.

Can these biscuits be made gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it’s a 1:1 substitute for regular flour. The texture might differ slightly, but they’ll still be delicious. Check the labels for any additional adjustments needed for gluten-free baking.

How do I make my biscuits fluffier?

For fluffier biscuits, ensure your baking powder is fresh and active. Cold butter is crucial, as it releases steam during baking, creating lift and layers. Handle the dough as little as possible to avoid developing gluten, which can make biscuits tough.

What if my biscuits aren’t rising properly?

If your biscuits aren’t rising, check your baking powder’s freshness, as it may have lost its leavening ability. Also, ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature. Proper folding technique is essential as well, which adds to the biscuit’s rise and flakiness.

Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead. Shape and cut the biscuits, then place them on a baking sheet, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply pop them in the preheated oven, no need to bring to room temperature. This makes them perfect for breakfast planning.