Description: Indulge in the simple pleasure of warm, buttery biscuits that practically melt in your mouth. These Heavenly Herbed Cheddar Biscuits are a delightful twist on the classic Southern staple, offering a savory symphony of flavors with the addition of sharp cheddar cheese and aromatic fresh herbs. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a comforting side dish with dinner, these biscuits are incredibly easy to make and guaranteed to impress. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable culinary experience. Imagine biting into a warm, flaky biscuit, the rich cheddar oozing with every mouthful, perfectly complemented by the fresh, vibrant herbs. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof and customizable to your preferences. Get ready to elevate your biscuit game and create a treat that will have everyone asking for seconds. These are also perfect with a smear of honey butter, or alongside a bowl of hearty chili. They’re amazing!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups White Lily self-rising flour (or substitute with 2 cups all-purpose flour + 1 tbsp baking powder + ½ tsp salt)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (plus more for brushing tops)
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
- ½ tsp garlic powder or onion powder (optional, for a savory kick)
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for cheesy biscuits)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to a blazing 475°F (245°C). This high temperature is crucial for creating that signature biscuit lift and a beautifully golden-brown crust. While the oven is preheating, prepare your baking sheet. Lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: In a generously sized mixing bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour (or your all-purpose flour blend), sugar (if using), and the optional garlic or onion powder. The sugar adds just a hint of sweetness that balances the savory flavors, while the garlic or onion powder provides a subtle depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste profile. If you’re adding cheese and herbs, fold them into the flour mixture at this stage, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Gently pour the heavy whipping cream and melted butter into the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, stir until a shaggy dough begins to form. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can develop the gluten and result in tough biscuits. The goal is to just bring the ingredients together until they are barely combined. Lumps are okay!
Step 4: Lightly flour your work surface. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface and gently pat it into a rectangle. The dough will be sticky, so don’t be afraid to use extra flour to prevent it from sticking to your hands or the counter. Fold the dough in half, then pat it back into a rectangle. Repeat this folding process 4-5 times. This creates layers and allows for those flaky biscuits we know and love. This technique, sometimes called lamination, is essential for creating those delightful layers that separate as the biscuits bake.
Step 5: Pat or roll the dough to about ½ inch thick. Using a biscuit cutter or a sharp knife, cut out rounds. If you don’t have a biscuit cutter, a glass or jar lid works perfectly. When cutting out the biscuits, try to press straight down without twisting, as twisting can seal the edges and prevent them from rising fully. For soft-sided biscuits, place them close together on the baking sheet. For crisper edges, space them apart.
Step 6: Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and have risen beautifully. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent them from burning.
Step 7: As soon as the biscuits come out of the oven, brush the tops with melted butter. This adds a beautiful sheen and enhances the buttery flavor. Serve the biscuits warm, and watch them disappear!
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
These Heavenly Herbed Cheddar Biscuits are incredibly versatile and satisfying. They are simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet they deliver an explosion of flavor in every bite. The flaky, tender texture, combined with the savory cheddar and aromatic herbs, makes them a truly irresistible treat. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty breakfast, as a comforting side dish with dinner, or simply enjoying them as a mid-afternoon snack, these biscuits are sure to become a family favorite. The warm, cheesy goodness and the delicate herbal notes make them a perfect complement to any meal.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a dollop of butter or honey butter.
- Pair with scrambled eggs, bacon, and sausage for a hearty breakfast.
- Serve alongside a bowl of soup, stew, or chili.
- Use as a base for breakfast sandwiches with eggs, cheese, and your favorite toppings.
- Enjoy as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Make mini-biscuits and serve with a cheese and charcuterie board for an elevated appetizer.
- Serve them with gravy, such as sausage gravy or mushroom gravy, for a classic Southern comfort food experience.
Tips:
- Use cold ingredients for the best results. Cold butter and heavy cream help create a flakier biscuit.
- Don’t overmix the dough. Overmixing develops the gluten, resulting in tough biscuits.
- If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can substitute with all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Experiment with different cheeses and herbs to create your own unique flavor combinations. Try adding Parmesan cheese, rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
- For a sweeter biscuit, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough.
- Leftover biscuits can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 12 minutes Total Time: 27 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
- Calories: 250-300 per biscuit
- Protein: 5-7 grams per biscuit
- Sodium: 300-400 mg per biscuit
Conclusion:
These Heavenly Herbed Cheddar Biscuits are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a perfect balance of savory flavors and comforting textures. They are incredibly easy to make, customizable to your preferences, and sure to impress everyone who tries them. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to deliver warm, flaky, and delicious biscuits every time. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the simple pleasure of homemade biscuits that melt in your mouth. These biscuits are not just a recipe; they’re an invitation to create memories in the kitchen and share the joy of homemade goodness with your loved ones. From the first bite to the last, these biscuits will leave you craving more. So go ahead, indulge in a little slice of heaven, and savor the moment.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: While you can use milk, the biscuits will not be as rich or tender. Heavy cream provides the fat content necessary for a flaky texture. If you do use milk, consider adding a tablespoon of melted butter to compensate for the lack of fat.
Q2: Can I freeze the biscuits?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked biscuits. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q3: What if I don’t have self-rising flour?
A: No problem! You can make your own self-rising flour by combining 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 tablespoon of baking powder and ½ teaspoon of salt.
Q4: Can I add other types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack, to create your own unique flavor combinations. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well.
Q5: Can I make these biscuits ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, for best results, bake the biscuits fresh just before serving. When ready to bake, simply take the dough out of the refrigerator, cut out the biscuits, and bake as directed.
