Ingredients
Gathering the ingredients for these biscuits is as much a joy as making them. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced ham
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, a great substitute is to mix 3/4 cup of milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. Feel free to swap cheddar for any cheese you have on hand, like Monterey Jack or Gruyère, for a different flavor profile.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the heart of the matter: making these biscuits! Here’s how you can bring them to life in your own kitchen:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the cheese, ham, and chives (if using).
- Pour in the buttermilk and stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the biscuits tough.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together. Roll or pat the dough out to about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Using a biscuit cutter, cut out the biscuits and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Gather the scraps and repeat until all the dough is used.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown on top.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving warm.
My abuela always taught me the importance of not overworking the dough, and it’s a tip that’s served me well over the years. Remember, a light hand makes for a light biscuit!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International