These Cheddar and Jalapeño Biscuits are perfectly golden and flaky, with just the right amount of heat from the jalapeños and richness from the sharp cheddar. The savory flavor combination makes them a wonderful side for soups, salads, or even as a snack on their own.
With a simple mix of ingredients, these biscuits come together quickly and easily. The buttery texture and slightly spicy kick make them a great addition to any meal. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a special brunch, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
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1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
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1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
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1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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2 fresh jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
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3/4 cup buttermilk
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1 egg (for egg wash)
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, baking soda, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
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Add the cold cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter.
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Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños.
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Pour in the buttermilk and stir until the dough begins to come together. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
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Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead the dough 3-4 times to bring it together, then pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle.
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Use a round biscuit cutter (about 2 1/2 inches in diameter) to cut out the biscuits. Place the biscuits onto the prepared baking sheet.
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Beat the egg and brush the tops of the biscuits with the egg wash to give them a golden finish.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the biscuits have risen.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 8 biscuits
The Origin of Cheddar and Jalapeño Biscuits
Biscuits have long been a staple in Southern American cooking, with a rich history tied to the region’s culinary traditions. While traditional biscuits are made with basic ingredients like flour, butter, and baking powder, the addition of cheddar cheese and jalapeños is a modern twist that reflects the growing trend of incorporating bold flavors into comfort food. The addition of cheese adds richness and depth, while jalapeños bring a subtle heat, making these biscuits both comforting and exciting.
These biscuits are an ideal fusion of two worlds: the comforting warmth of a classic biscuit with the excitement of southwestern-inspired ingredients. Over the years, the Cheddar and Jalapeño Biscuit has found its way into countless households, gaining popularity at family gatherings, brunches, and even as a savory snack.
Why You Should Make Cheddar and Jalapeño Biscuits
There’s no shortage of reasons to try making Cheddar and Jalapeño Biscuits at home. First and foremost, they are incredibly versatile. You can serve them as a side dish with soups and stews, or enjoy them as an appetizer or snack. Their rich, cheesy flavor and just the right amount of heat from the jalapeños make them a hit at any table.
What makes these biscuits so special is the balance of flavor and texture. The sharp cheddar cheese melts into the dough, creating pockets of creamy, cheesy goodness throughout the biscuit. Meanwhile, the jalapeños provide a spicy kick, which is balanced by the richness of the butter and the mild tang of buttermilk. Together, these ingredients create a biscuit that is flaky on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor in every bite.
Not only are these biscuits delicious, but they are also easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and basic kitchen tools, you can whip up a batch of these biscuits in no time. There’s no need for any special equipment or complex techniques – just mix, cut, and bake. The end result is a batch of biscuits that look and taste like they came from a high-end bakery, but without all the effort.
The Perfect Pairing: Cheddar and Jalapeño Biscuits with Your Favorite Meals
Cheddar and Jalapeño Biscuits are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide variety of dishes. For a traditional Southern breakfast, enjoy them with scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage. They also make an excellent accompaniment to a hearty bowl of chili or a steaming cup of soup. If you’re serving a casual dinner, these biscuits go wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even a simple salad.
One of the best things about these biscuits is that they add a layer of flavor to any meal. The richness of the cheddar and the subtle heat from the jalapeños can enhance the taste of your main dishes without overpowering them. Whether you serve them alongside a spicy gumbo, a creamy chicken pot pie, or a rich tomato soup, they’ll add the perfect amount of zest.
Cheddar and Jalapeño Biscuits can also stand alone as a snack or appetizer. Serve them warm with a dipping sauce like sour cream or ranch dressing for a crowd-pleasing treat. You can even make smaller versions of these biscuits, which are perfect for parties or gatherings. Their bold flavor and flaky texture make them the perfect finger food.
How to Customize Your Cheddar and Jalapeño Biscuits
While the classic recipe for Cheddar and Jalapeño Biscuits is undeniably delicious, there are plenty of ways you can customize these biscuits to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. For a milder version, you can reduce or omit the jalapeños entirely. If you’re looking for more heat, add extra jalapeños or even a pinch of red pepper flakes.
For those who prefer a different cheese, feel free to experiment with other varieties. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even Gouda can all add unique flavors to your biscuits. If you want a more complex flavor, you can even mix different types of cheese for a layered, savory bite.
Another great way to customize these biscuits is by adding herbs and spices to the dough. Fresh cilantro or parsley can add a fresh, herbal note that complements the spiciness of the jalapeños. Alternatively, a touch of smoked paprika can give the biscuits a smoky undertone. The possibilities for customization are endless, so feel free to get creative with your ingredients and make these biscuits truly your own.
Making Cheddar and Jalapeño Biscuits Ahead of Time
One of the best things about Cheddar and Jalapeño Biscuits is how easy they are to prepare in advance. You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This is perfect if you’re planning for a busy day or want to get a head start on meal prep.
If you want to make the biscuits ahead of time and freeze them, simply cut out the biscuits and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze them for 1-2 hours until they are firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen biscuits directly on a baking sheet and bake as usual, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
This make-ahead option is a real time-saver, especially if you’re hosting a brunch or preparing for a busy week ahead. You can have fresh, hot Cheddar and Jalapeño Biscuits without all the last-minute fuss.
Why Buttermilk is Essential in This Recipe
Buttermilk plays a key role in the texture and flavor of these biscuits. It reacts with the baking powder and baking soda to help the biscuits rise, creating that light and fluffy texture that makes biscuits so irresistible. The tanginess of the buttermilk also balances the richness of the butter and the sharpness of the cheddar cheese.
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily substitute it with a mixture of regular milk and lemon juice or vinegar. Simply add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This will mimic the acidity of buttermilk and work just as well in the recipe.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Recipe for Cheese and Spice Lovers
In conclusion, Cheddar and Jalapeño Biscuits are an excellent way to elevate any meal with minimal effort. They combine the rich flavor of cheddar cheese with the heat of jalapeños, creating a perfect balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you serve them for breakfast, as a side dish, or as a snack, these biscuits are sure to impress.
With their easy preparation, customizable ingredients, and delicious results, Cheddar and Jalapeño Biscuits are a must-try for anyone who loves cheese and spice. They’re perfect for a cozy family dinner, a gathering with friends, or as part of a special occasion meal. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to the comforting, spicy goodness of these homemade biscuits.
Enjoy baking and eating these delightful Cheddar and Jalapeño Biscuits – they’ll quickly become a new favorite in your recipe collection!