Delicious Cheddar Bay Biscuits: A Must-Try Recipe!
These cheesy, buttery biscuits are a hit with everyone. Flaky and full of flavor, they work for any occasion.
The Story Behind These Cheesy Biscuits
I first had these cheddar bay biscuits at a family dinner years ago. My aunt served them warm, right out of the oven. The smell of garlic and melted cheese filled the air. Everyone loved them. Since then, I’ve made this recipe tons of times. It’s a staple in my house now.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These biscuits are easy to whip up and packed with flavor. The mix of cheddar, garlic, and parsley is amazing. Plus, they’re ready in under 30 minutes. Great for busy nights or last-minute get-togethers.
Perfect Occasions to Make These Biscuits
Serve these biscuits as a side for holiday meals or casual dinners. They’re perfect for potlucks, brunches, or game day snacks. Pair them with soups, salads, or roasted meats for a full meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Substitution Options
- Swap buttermilk with milk mixed with 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice.
- Use gluten-free flour if you need it.
- Try pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Keeps biscuits from sticking and makes cleanup easier. Mix dry ingredients in a bowl. Fresh garlic powder gives the best smell. Pro tip: Don’t skip it.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Fold in the shredded cheddar until it’s evenly spread. Add buttermilk and melted butter. Stir gently until just mixed. Overmixing makes dough tough. The dough will be sticky but workable. You’ll see streaks of cheese throughout.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet. Space them 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes. Watch as they puff up and turn golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving.
Chef’s Tip
Brush extra melted butter on top after baking. Adds richness and makes them look bakery-fresh.
Time Breakdown
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
Per biscuit (makes 8): Calories: 180, Protein: 5g, Fat: 9g, Carbs: 20g
Extra Information
Fun fact: Cheddar cheese is named after the village of Cheddar in England. It’s one of the most popular cheeses worldwide. Its sharp taste pairs perfectly with garlic in these biscuits.
Necessary Tools
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Spoon or ice cream scoop
Storage Instructions
Let the biscuits cool completely. Store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag. Reheat frozen biscuits in the oven for 5-7 minutes.
If freezing, wrap each biscuit in plastic wrap. This stops freezer burn. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Avoid microwaving leftovers. It makes them soggy. Use the oven instead.
Tips and Tricks
- Use cold buttermilk and butter for flakier biscuits.
- Don’t overwork the dough. Handle it as little as possible.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with creamy tomato soup.
- Pair with grilled chicken or roasted veggies for a hearty meal.
Healthier Alternatives for Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Here are six ways to lighten up this recipe:
- Whole Wheat Flour: Swap half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat. Adds fiber without losing taste.
- Reduced-Fat Cheese: Use low-fat cheddar to cut calories.
- Greek Yogurt: Replace half the butter with plain Greek yogurt. Keeps biscuits moist.
- Herb Substitutions: Skip parsley and try dill or chives for variety.
- Olive Oil: Use olive oil instead of butter for a heart-healthy option.
- No Salt Added: Cut the salt in half if you’re watching sodium.
Mistake 1: Overmixing the Dough
Overmixing makes biscuits dense. Dough should be shaggy, not smooth. Stop mixing as soon as there’s no dry flour. Pro tip: Be gentle when folding in the cheese.
Mistake 2: Skipping the Parchment Paper
Without parchment, biscuits may stick. Greasing the pan isn’t enough. Parchment ensures easy removal and even browning. Always line your baking sheet.
Mistake 3: Underbaking
Underbaked biscuits are doughy inside. Bake until golden brown. Check doneness with a toothpick. If unsure, leave them in for an extra minute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these biscuits ahead of time?
Yes, prep the dough and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bring it to room temp before baking. Saves time for busy days.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
Mix regular milk with 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle. Works as a substitute.
How do I reheat leftover biscuits?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. Avoid the microwave—it makes them soggy. Brush with butter after reheating.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, shape the dough into biscuits and freeze on a tray. Once solid, transfer to a bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to cooking time.
Do I have to use cheddar cheese?
No, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan. Each adds its own flavor.
Why is my dough too sticky?
Sticky dough happens if you add too much liquid. Sprinkle in a bit more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until manageable. Don’t overdo it.
Can I add herbs to the dough?
Definitely! Try rosemary, thyme, or basil for extra flavor. Fresh herbs are best, but dried ones work too.
How do I know when the biscuits are done?
Look for golden-brown tops and edges. A toothpick inserted should come out clean. They’ll also sound hollow when tapped underneath.
What size should the biscuits be?
Aim for 2-inch rounds. This size ensures even baking. Larger biscuits may cook unevenly, while smaller ones might dry out.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Add an extra tablespoon of buttermilk if the dough seems dry. Gluten-free biscuits are just as tasty!
Conclusion
These cheddar bay biscuits are simple, flavorful, and versatile. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a snack, they’re sure to impress. Try them once, and they’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too!
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Spoon or ice cream scoop
- Knife for spreading