Description
Cheddar Ham Biscuits
Infused with a hint of garlic, these cheddar ham biscuits are a savory dream come true!
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
½ tsp garlic powder
6 tbsp cold butter
¾ cup buttermilk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup diced ham
Preparation:
Preheat oven to 400°F.
Combine flour, baking powder, and garlic powder. Cut in butter.
Add cheddar, ham, and buttermilk to form a dough.
Roll out dough, cut into biscuits, and bake for 15 minutes.
#GarlicLoversBiscuit
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. 3. Cut the 6 tablespoons of cold butter into small cubes. Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingertips, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. 4. Stir in the 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of diced ham until evenly distributed. 5. Make a well in the center and pour in the ¾ cup of buttermilk. Gently stir with a fork until a shaggy dough just comes together. Do not overmix. 6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat it into a 1-inch thick circle. 7. Using a 2.5-inch round biscuit cutter, press straight down to cut out biscuits. Avoid twisting the cutter. Gather scraps, pat together, and cut remaining biscuits. 8. Place biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Serving Suggestions
These biscuits are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm from the oven with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for a sweet-savory contrast. They are the perfect side for soups, stews, or a hearty breakfast scramble. For a full Southern-inspired meal, pair them with creamy sausage gravy. They also make excellent mini sandwiches when split and filled with scrambled eggs, a slice of tomato, or extra ham.
How-to Summary
To make Cheddar Ham Biscuits: mix dry ingredients, cut in cold butter, fold in cheese and ham, bind with buttermilk, pat out dough, cut into rounds, and bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes until golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk instead of buttermilk? Yes, but for best results, make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Can I freeze the unbaked biscuits? Absolutely. After cutting, place them on a tray to freeze solid, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3-5 extra minutes.
Why are my biscuits dense? The most common cause is overworking the dough, which develops gluten. Handle the dough as little as possible after adding the buttermilk.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese? You can, but block cheese you shred yourself melts better and doesn’t contain anti-caking agents, yielding a superior texture.
How should I store leftovers? Store cooled biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or warm oven to restore crispness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using room-temperature butter: Cold butter is essential for creating steam pockets and flaky layers.
- Overmixing the dough: This leads to tough, dense biscuits. Mix until ingredients are just combined.
- Twisting the biscuit cutter: Press straight down. Twisting seals the edges and prevents a proper rise.
- Using warm buttermilk: All liquids and fats should be cold to keep the butter from melting before baking.
Conclusion
These Cheddar Ham Biscuits are a simple yet impressive bake that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. The combination of sharp cheddar, savory ham, and a hint of garlic creates a truly irresistible treat. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve light, fluffy, and perfectly golden biscuits every time. They are sure to become a cherished recipe for busy weeknights, holiday brunches, or any occasion that calls for a delicious, homemade touch.
