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Cheddar Drop Biscuits

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  • Preparation Time: 10–15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 18–22 minutes
  • Total Time: 30–35 minutes
  • Skill Level (Intensity): Easy
  • Baking Temperature: 425°F (220°C)
  • Resting Time: 2–3 minutes after baking

These biscuits are designed for speed and simplicity. The high oven temperature ensures a golden crust while keeping the interior tender and moist.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional but recommended)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Wet Ingredients:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
  • 1 cup whole milk (cold)
  • 1 large egg

Add-ins:

  • 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Optional Topping:

  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • Pinch of salt
  • Extra shredded cheddar for topping

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowl (large)
  • Whisk or fork
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Spoon or ice cream scoop
  • Pastry cutter or fingers (for cutting butter into flour)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking and helps achieve a crisp bottom.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

  • Flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Garlic powder
  • Black pepper

Whisk thoroughly to distribute the leavening agents evenly. This ensures the biscuits rise uniformly and maintain a light texture.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

This step is essential. The cold butter creates steam pockets while baking, giving the biscuits their flaky, tender structure. Do not overmix—small chunks of butter are good.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed. The cheese will melt during baking, creating savory pockets of flavor throughout the biscuits.

Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

  • Milk
  • Egg

Make sure the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently using a spoon or spatula until just combined.

Do not overmix. The dough should look slightly lumpy and sticky. Overmixing will result in dense biscuits instead of light, fluffy ones.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough

Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop, drop portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Each biscuit should be about 2–3 tablespoons of dough.

Leave at least 2 inches of space between each biscuit, as they will expand while baking.

Step 8: Bake

Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until:

  • The tops are golden brown
  • The edges are slightly crisp
  • The cheese is bubbling slightly

Oven performance varies, so begin checking at the 18-minute mark.

Step 9: Optional Butter Topping

While the biscuits are still hot, brush the tops with melted butter. Sprinkle a pinch of salt or extra shredded cheddar on top for added flavor and richness.

Step 10: Cooling

Let the biscuits rest on the baking tray for 2–3 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This helps them set and prevents crumbling.

Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Cheddar drop biscuits are incredibly versatile. You can serve them:

  • Alongside soups like tomato soup or chicken chowder
  • With breakfast eggs and bacon
  • As a side for grilled meats or BBQ
  • With butter and honey for a sweet-savory contrast
  • As a snack on their own

They also pair beautifully with creamy sauces or gravies.

Tips for Best Results

  • Always use cold butter and cold milk for a fluffier texture
  • Avoid overmixing the dough; stop as soon as it comes together
  • Use sharp cheddar for stronger flavor
  • For extra crisp tops, bake on the upper-middle oven rack
  • Add herbs like chives or rosemary for variation

Variations

  • Spicy Cheddar Biscuits: Add ½ teaspoon chili flakes or diced jalapeños
  • Herb Biscuits: Add thyme, parsley, or dill
  • Bacon Cheddar Biscuits: Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon
  • Extra Cheesy: Add a mix of mozzarella and cheddar

Storage Instructions

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
  • Refrigerator: Up to 5 days
  • Freezer: Up to 2 months

To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds.

Nutrition Information (Per Biscuit – Approximate)

  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 310 mg
  • Calcium: 120 mg

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