There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cheddar biscuits coming out of the oven. These biscuits are soft, flaky, and loaded with rich, cheesy goodness. Whether served as a side for soups, stews, or breakfast dishes, or enjoyed on their own, they make for a comforting and flavorful treat. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and a buttery, garlic-infused topping creates a perfectly balanced biscuit that melts in your mouth.

This recipe is simple and requires only a few pantry staples, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The key to achieving a tender, flaky texture is to use cold butter and handle the dough as little as possible. The optional honey adds a slight hint of sweetness, enhancing the flavor without overpowering the cheese.

Ingredients

For the Biscuits:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (measured correctly by spooning into the cup and leveling off)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder (ensures a fluffy texture)
• 1 teaspoon salt (balances the flavors)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but adds depth)
• ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed (ensures flakiness)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (the star ingredient)
• ¾ cup whole milk (adds moisture and tenderness)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, enhances flavor)

For the Butter Topping:

• 3 tablespoons melted butter (adds richness)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (for extra savory flavor)
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for freshness and color)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and seasoning.
3. Cut in the Butter:
   Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingertips to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The small butter pieces will create steam pockets in the oven, making the biscuits light and flaky.
4. Add the Cheese:
   Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
5. Incorporate the Wet Ingredients:
   Pour in the milk and honey (if using). Gently mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the biscuits dense and tough. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
6. Shape the Biscuits:
   Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop the dough into the greased muffin tin or onto the prepared baking sheet. The biscuits do not need to be perfectly shaped—rustic drop biscuits bake up beautifully.
7. Bake to Perfection:
   Place the biscuits in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges look slightly crisp.
8. Prepare the Garlic Butter Topping:
   While the biscuits are baking, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley in a small bowl.
9. Brush and Serve:
   As soon as the biscuits come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture. This step enhances their flavor and gives them a glossy finish.
10. Enjoy Warm:
    Serve immediately while the biscuits are warm and fluffy. They pair perfectly with soups, chili, or even as a side for breakfast.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 12 biscuits

Calories: 210 kcal per biscuit

Tips for the Best Cheddar Biscuits

• Use Cold Butter: Keeping the butter cold before incorporating it into the dough ensures a flaky texture. You can even freeze the butter and grate it for easier mixing.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir just until the ingredients come together. Overworking the dough can make the biscuits tough.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, try mixing in parmesan, gruyère, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Add Extra Flavors: Diced jalapeños, crumbled bacon, or a pinch of cayenne pepper can take these biscuits to the next level.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. You can also freeze unbaked dough portions and bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a warm bowl of soup, such as tomato, broccoli cheddar, or potato soup.
• Serve alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon for a satisfying breakfast.
• Use as a base for mini breakfast sandwiches with sausage or ham.
• Enjoy with honey butter or extra melted cheese for an indulgent snack.

These cheddar biscuits are incredibly easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Their rich, buttery taste with cheesy goodness makes them a perfect addition to any meal. Once you try them, they might just become a staple in your kitchen.