Add Cheese and Buttermilk:
Stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the dough. Then, pour in the buttermilk and mix gently with a spatula or spoon until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can make the biscuits dense.
Shape the Biscuits:
Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, drop generous portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space the biscuits about 1 inch apart. If you prefer a more uniform shape, you can lightly flatten the tops of the dough mounds with the back of the spoon.
Bake the Biscuits:
Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Add the Garlic Butter Topping:
While the biscuits are baking, melt the butter for the topping in a small bowl. Once the biscuits are out of the oven, brush them with the melted butter mixture and sprinkle with garlic powder and a pinch of salt. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra pop of flavor and color.
Serve and Enjoy:
Allow the biscuits to cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm as a side dish to soups, salads, or your favorite seafood meal.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Ideas:
These Cheddar Bay Biscuits make an excellent accompaniment to many dishes. Serve them alongside clam chowder, fried chicken, or a fresh garden salad. They’re also perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces, like ranch dressing or a creamy dip.
Storing:
If you have any leftover biscuits, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap the biscuits tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Make Ahead:
If you’re preparing for a gathering, you can make the biscuit dough ahead of time. Shape the biscuits and place them on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just pop them in the oven for fresh, warm biscuits in no time.
Variants:
Additions and Mix-ins:
For a fun twist, consider adding cooked bacon bits, jalapeños, or even crumbled sausage into the biscuit dough before baking. These ingredients can bring new flavors and textures to your biscuits while keeping them as delicious as ever.
Herbed Biscuits:
If you’re a fan of herbs, try incorporating rosemary, thyme, or chives into your dough for an extra layer of flavor. The fresh herbs pair wonderfully with the cheesy and garlic-rich base.
Gluten-Free Version:
To make these biscuits gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check the consistency of the dough, as gluten-free flours may require slight adjustments in the amount of liquid.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
A: While buttermilk gives these biscuits their signature tang and tender texture, you can substitute it with regular milk if you don’t have buttermilk on hand. To mimic buttermilk, simply add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 3/4 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Q: Why are my biscuits dense?
A: Overworking the dough is usually the culprit for dense biscuits. When mixing in the buttermilk, be gentle and only stir until the dough just comes together. This will help keep your biscuits light and fluffy.
Q: Can I make these biscuits ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time, shape the biscuits, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. You can also bake the biscuits in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture.
Q: How do I prevent my biscuits from sticking to the baking sheet?
A: Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to line your baking sheet, which will prevent the biscuits from sticking and help them bake evenly.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a mild gouda. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly, but the result will still be delicious.
Conclusion:
These fluffy, cheesy, garlic-infused Cheddar Bay Biscuits are the perfect addition to any meal. With their irresistible aroma and buttery texture, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve them alongside a hearty soup, as a snack, or with a special dinner, these biscuits will quickly become your go-to recipe for a delicious, comforting treat. Plus, with easy-to-follow steps and options for customization, you can make them exactly the way you like. Try them out today, and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness straight from your oven!
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