These Fluffy Cheddar and Herb Biscuits are a delightful addition to any meal, combining the rich flavors of sharp cheddar cheese and fresh herbs. Perfectly fluffy and golden brown, they make an excellent side dish or a savory snack.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick or 113g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup (240ml) cold buttermilk
- 1 cup (113g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
Directions
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Add Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, and parsley until evenly distributed.
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Incorporate Buttermilk: Pour in the cold buttermilk and gently mix until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.
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Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a rectangle about 1-inch thick. Fold the dough over onto itself and pat it down again. Repeat this folding process two more times to create flaky layers.
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Cut the Biscuits: Pat the dough out to a 1-inch thickness. Using a floured 2.5-inch biscuit cutter, cut out biscuits and place them on the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart. Gather any scraps, re-pat the dough, and cut additional biscuits.
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top.
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Brush with Butter: Remove the biscuits from the oven and immediately brush the tops with melted butter.
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Serve: Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrients (Per Biscuit, Approximate)
- Calories: 220
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Sugar: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
The Appeal of Homemade Biscuits
There is something truly comforting about homemade biscuits. Unlike store-bought versions, which can sometimes be dry or lacking in flavor, homemade biscuits have a tender texture and rich taste that is unmatched. The process of making them from scratch allows for control over the ingredients, ensuring a fresher and more flavorful outcome. The combination of cheddar and herbs brings a depth of flavor that elevates these biscuits beyond the basic, making them a must-try for biscuit lovers.
The Perfect Balance of Ingredients
Each ingredient in this recipe serves a vital purpose. The all-purpose flour forms the base, providing structure to the biscuits. Baking powder ensures a light and fluffy texture, helping the biscuits rise beautifully. Cold unsalted butter, cut into the flour mixture, creates flaky layers that give the biscuits their characteristic texture. Sharp cheddar cheese contributes a rich, savory element, while fresh chives and parsley add a hint of freshness and color. Cold buttermilk not only binds the ingredients together but also enhances the tenderness of the biscuits. Finally, melted butter brushed on top adds a finishing touch, creating a golden crust with a buttery richness.
Why Buttermilk is Essential
Buttermilk is a crucial ingredient in this biscuit recipe. Its acidity reacts with the baking powder, ensuring the biscuits rise properly while remaining tender. Buttermilk also adds a subtle tang that enhances the overall flavor. Using cold buttermilk is important because it helps keep the butter cold, which is key to achieving flaky layers in the biscuits. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, a simple substitute can be made by mixing regular milk with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for a few minutes.
Achieving the Perfect Texture
The secret to achieving the perfect texture lies in handling the dough correctly. Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits, so it’s important to mix just until the ingredients come together. The folding technique used in shaping the dough is also essential. By folding the dough over itself a few times before cutting the biscuits, you create multiple layers, resulting in a flakier texture. Using a sharp biscuit cutter and pressing straight down (rather than twisting) helps the biscuits rise evenly in the oven.
Versatile Serving Options
These biscuits are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve them warm with butter for a simple yet delicious treat. They pair wonderfully with soups and stews, adding a comforting, cheesy element to the meal. For breakfast, try slicing them open and filling them with scrambled eggs and bacon for a hearty biscuit sandwich. They can also be served alongside roasted meats or grilled vegetables for a flavorful complement to a main course.
Customization Ideas
One of the best things about this biscuit recipe is its adaptability. While the combination of cheddar and fresh herbs is fantastic, there are plenty of ways to customize these biscuits to suit different tastes. Try using different cheeses like smoked gouda, pepper jack, or parmesan for a new flavor twist. Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or dill to match the biscuits with different meals. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or cayenne pepper can enhance the savory depth of flavor. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, finely diced jalapeños can be added for a cheesy, spicy variation.
Storing and Reheating Biscuits
These biscuits store well and can be enjoyed for days after baking. If storing at room temperature, keep them in an airtight container for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. Biscuits can also be frozen for up to three months. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their warmth and flakiness.
Nutritional Benefits
While these biscuits are a delicious indulgence, they also offer some nutritional benefits. Cheddar cheese provides a good source of protein and calcium, which are essential for bone health. Fresh herbs add vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to overall wellness. While these biscuits are best enjoyed in moderation, they are a great way to add a homemade touch to any meal without relying on processed ingredients.
The Joy of Baking from Scratch
Baking from scratch brings a sense of satisfaction that goes beyond just enjoying the final product. The process of mixing the ingredients, shaping the dough, and watching the biscuits rise in the oven is rewarding and therapeutic. Homemade biscuits are also a great way to bring people together—whether it’s baking with family members or sharing a batch with friends and loved ones, the experience of making and enjoying them is truly special.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Fluffy Cheddar and Herb Biscuits are the perfect way to elevate your baking skills while creating a delicious homemade treat. They are easy to make, full of rich flavors, and versatile enough to complement a variety of meals. With a crispy golden crust and a soft, cheesy interior, these biscuits are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding, making it a great addition to your collection.
Conclusion
Fluffy Cheddar and Herb Biscuits offer the perfect balance of rich cheese, fresh herbs, and buttery layers. They are simple to prepare yet impressive in both taste and texture. Whether served as a side dish, snack, or breakfast option, these biscuits bring warmth and comfort to any table. The combination of sharp cheddar and aromatic herbs makes them stand out from traditional biscuits, adding an extra layer of flavor to every bite. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious, homemade goodness of freshly baked biscuits!