Introduction
If you’re in search of the perfect savory biscuit recipe, look no further! These cheddar and bacon biscuits are not only easy to make, but they also burst with flavor and are the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, as a side for dinner, or just as a snack, they are sure to please a crowd. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and crispy bacon creates a delightful taste that will keep you coming back for more.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
3½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
1½ teaspoons coarse sea salt
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 cup salted butter, cubed
1½ cups buttermilk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup chopped cooked bacon (approximately 8 pieces)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 biscuits
With minimal effort and a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these delicious cheddar and bacon biscuits in no time. Follow the instructions to enjoy warm, flaky biscuits that are perfect for any occasion!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it is hot enough for baking the biscuits.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, 1½ teaspoons of coarse sea salt, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar until well mixed.
Step 3: Incorporate Butter
Add 1 cup of cubed salted butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to incorporate the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Add Buttermilk
Pour in 1½ cups of buttermilk and mix gently with a spoon or spatula until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl, ensuring not to overmix.
Step 5: Fold in Cheese and Bacon
Gently fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup of chopped cooked bacon until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: Roll Out Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a sheet about 1 inch thick to prepare it for cutting.
Step 7: Cut into Discs
Using a biscuit cutter or a glass, cut the dough into 3-inch discs. Make sure to cut straight down without twisting to ensure the biscuits rise properly.
Step 8: Arrange Biscuits
Place the cut biscuits in a cast iron skillet or a 9-inch pie dish, arranging them close together for soft sides.
Step 9: Bake the Biscuits
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the biscuits are fully cooked through.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove from the oven and serve warm. Enjoy the delicious biscuits as a tasty treat.
Notes
Storage
These biscuits are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze the uncooked biscuits by placing them on a baking sheet to harden before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Variations
Feel free to experiment by adding different types of cheese or herbs according to your taste preferences.
Cook techniques
Whisking Dry Ingredients
Whisking together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and prevents clumps, ensuring a uniform texture in your biscuits.
Cutting in Butter
Incorporating cubed butter into the dry ingredients until they resemble coarse crumbs creates pockets of fat that will melt during baking, resulting in flaky and tender biscuits.
Mixing Dough
Gently mixing buttermilk into the dry ingredients until the dough pulls away from the sides is crucial. Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits, so it’s important to be gentle.
Folding Ingredients
Carefully folding in shredded cheese and bacon helps to maintain the airiness of the dough while ensuring these ingredients are evenly distributed without overworking the dough.
Rolling and Cutting
Rolling the dough to 1-inch thickness creates uniform biscuits that bake evenly. Using a biscuit cutter or glass helps achieve clean edges, which promotes proper rising.
Baking
Placing the biscuits in a cast iron skillet or pie dish allows for even heat distribution, while baking at a high temperature promotes quick rising and browning, giving you a perfect golden crust.
FAQ
Can I substitute buttermilk with regular milk?
Yes, but for best results, add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and let it sit for a few minutes to mimic buttermilk’s acidity.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky, you can sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface and your hands, but be careful not to add too much as this can affect the texture of the biscuits.
How do I know when the biscuits are done baking?
The biscuits are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Conclusion
These cheddar bacon biscuits are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for breakfast or as a savory side dish. With their golden-brown tops and rich, cheesy interior, they are sure to impress anyone who tries them.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Herbed Garlic Cheese Biscuits
Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme and minced garlic to the dough for a fragrant twist that complements the cheese and butter.
Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Biscuits
Incorporate diced jalapeños and a bit of pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Apple Cinnamon Bacon Biscuit
Mix in small apple chunks and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a sweet and savory variation that’s perfect for brunch.
Spinach and Feta Biscuits
Substitute the cheddar and bacon for wilted spinach and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Biscuits
Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for an Italian-inspired version that pairs wonderfully with soups and stews.
