Warm, fluffy, and bursting with cheesy flavor, these Cheddar Bay Biscuits instantly transport you to the cozy comfort of your favorite seafood restaurant, but with all the joys of homemade baking. They boast a golden, crisp exterior brushed in garlicky butter, while inside you’ll find a pillowy crumb speckled with sharp cheddar and kissed with a hint of garlic. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or sneaking one as a midnight snack, Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a crave-worthy treat that never disappoints!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Cheddar Bay Biscuits comes from just a handful of familiar ingredients, each playing a key role in creating that signature flavor and texture. Quality basics like sharp cheddar and fresh parsley turn a simple dough into something extra special!
- All-purpose flour: The classic base for a tender, fluffy biscuit with just the right structure.
- Baking powder: Delivers lift and lightness, ensuring your biscuits rise beautifully in the oven.
- Baking soda: Reacts with the buttermilk to enhance the rise and keep the crumb ultra-soft.
- Garlic powder: Infuses every bite with savory, mouthwatering depth; use in both dough and topping.
- Sugar: Just a touch balances out the savory and helps with the browning.
- Salt: Brings out all the other flavors—skip it and your biscuits will taste flat!
- Buttermilk (cold): The secret to tender, tangy biscuits; cold buttermilk stops the butter from melting too soon.
- Unsalted butter (cold and cubed): Creates flaky layers and rich flavor; cold butter is crucial!
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor—pre-shredded works but fresh grated is best.
- For the topping: 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted), ½ teaspoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for that signature savory, herby finish.
How to Make Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Before you dive in, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, not only for effortless cleanup but also to guarantee those biscuits don’t stick. Getting this ready first ensures your dough hits the hot oven fast for maximum rise and fluffiness.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, garlic powder, sugar, and salt. This step evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices throughout, so each biscuit bakes up perfectly seasoned and sky-high.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter right into your dry mix. Use a pastry cutter (or even your fingers!) to work the butter into the flour until pea-sized crumbs form. This is where the magic starts: those little butter pockets melt in the oven, making the biscuits tender and flaky.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Now for the star of the show—stir in the sharp cheddar cheese. Folding in the cheese at this stage guarantees beautiful speckles in every biscuit, plus rich, melty flavor in each bite.
Step 5: Bring it All Together with Buttermilk
Pour in the cold buttermilk and gently mix just until the dough comes together. Don’t overwork it! Mixing too much makes for tough biscuits, and we’re after the legendary tenderness that makes Cheddar Bay Biscuits unforgettable.
Step 6: Portion and Bake
Using a large spoon or scoop, drop ¼-cup portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. No need to fuss with shaping; the rustic “drop biscuit” look is part of their charm. Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the tops are golden brown and irresistible.
Step 7: Brush with Savory Garlic Butter
While your Cheddar Bay Biscuits are still hot, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, and chopped fresh parsley. Brush this savory blend generously over the warm tops, letting it soak in and boost that deliciously garlicky aroma. Serve while steamy and watch them disappear!
How to Serve Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, finish your Cheddar Bay Biscuits with more fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. That pop of green and a final garlic butter brush ensure they look as tempting as they taste.
Side Dishes
These biscuits are the perfect companion to hearty soups, creamy chowders, and all sorts of dinner mains. Try them alongside a classic bowl of tomato soup, a big crunchy salad, or—of course—your favorite seafood feast!
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get extra creative, split Cheddar Bay Biscuits open for small sandwiches filled with ham, eggs, or your favorite breakfast toppings. They even work as a savory base for eggs Benedict, or simply with a swoosh of honey butter for a sweet-meets-savory treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If there are any biscuits left (a rare occurrence!), let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The flavor stays fantastic, though reheating restores that fresh-from-the-oven magic.
Freezing
Cheddar Bay Biscuits freeze beautifully! Once cooled, wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a zip-top freezer bag for up to a month. For best texture, freeze before adding the garlic butter topping; brush it on after reheating.
Reheating
To revive your biscuits, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven or air fryer for about 5 minutes. The warmth refreshes the crumb and crisps the edges. Avoid microwaving, which can make them tough or soggy.
FAQs
Can I substitute the buttermilk?
Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk handy, simply mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then use as directed—a great homemade stand-in for real buttermilk.
What’s the best way to shred the cheese?
Freshly shredded sharp cheddar melts better and makes the biscuits extra gooey. A box grater does the trick, but pre-shredded works in a pinch if you’re short on time.
Could I make these biscuits gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Just keep an eye on the texture, as you might need a splash more liquid. The biscuits will still be wonderfully cheesy and satisfying.
How can I make the biscuits spicier?
For a gentle heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of smoked paprika to the dry mix. It gives your Cheddar Bay Biscuits a subtle, warming kick that plays well with the cheddar.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! This recipe doubles (or even triples) beautifully. You might need a second baking sheet, but otherwise just multiply everything and bake in batches for a party-sized treat.
Final Thoughts
Once you try homemade Cheddar Bay Biscuits, you’ll find yourself looking for every possible excuse to make them—potlucks, brunch, or any night you need a little extra comfort. Give this recipe a try and watch those warm, cheesy biscuits win over everyone at your table!
Print
Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 10 biscuits 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Cheddar Bay Biscuits that are perfect for any meal. These biscuits are loaded with cheddar cheese and brushed with garlic butter for a savory treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup cold buttermilk
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter (cubed)
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
For the Topping:
- 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Cut in the cold butter, then stir in the cheddar cheese. Add the cold buttermilk and mix until just combined.
- Bake: Drop portions of dough onto the baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the Topping: Mix melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley. Brush over the warm biscuits.
- Serve: Enjoy the biscuits warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne to the dry mix.
- Best served fresh but can be reheated in the oven or air fryer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 biscuit
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
