Cheddar Bay Biscuit

Introduction

Cheddar Bay Biscuits are soft, fluffy, and buttery savory biscuits flavored with sharp cheddar cheese and garlic. Popularly known from seafood restaurants, these biscuits are loved for their tender interior, crisp golden exterior, and rich cheesy taste. They are quick to prepare, require no yeast, and are perfect as a side dish for soups, seafood, salads, or as a snack on their own.

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Ingredients

For the Biscuit Dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• 1 cup cold buttermilk
• 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

For the Garlic Butter Topping

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder or finely minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• ¼ teaspoon salt

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Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

1. Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
3. In a large mixing bowl, add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
4. Whisk the dry ingredients together until evenly combined.

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Step 2: Cut in the Butter

1. Add the cold butter cubes to the dry mixture.
2. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Work quickly to prevent the butter from melting, as cold butter is essential for flaky biscuits.

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Step 3: Add Cheese and Buttermilk

1. Stir the grated cheddar cheese into the flour and butter mixture.
2. Pour in the cold buttermilk.
3. Gently mix using a spatula or spoon until just combined.
4. Do not overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky and rough.

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Shaping and Baking

Step 4: Shape the Biscuits

1. Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, drop portions of dough onto the prepared baking tray.
2. Leave some space between each biscuit, as they will expand while baking.
3. The dough does not need to be shaped or flattened; rustic shapes are ideal.

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Step 5: Bake the Biscuits

1. Place the tray in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the biscuits rise and turn golden brown on top.
3. Remove from the oven once fully baked.

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Garlic Butter Topping

Step 6: Prepare the Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder or minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt.
2. Mix well until evenly combined.

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Step 7: Brush the Biscuits

1. While the biscuits are still hot, generously brush the garlic butter mixture over each biscuit.
2. Allow the butter to soak in for maximum flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm as a side with seafood dishes, soups, or salads.
• Pair with creamy soups, chowders, or pasta dishes.
• Enjoy on their own as a savory snack.

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Tips and Variations

• Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor; mild cheese will result in a less pronounced taste.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or black pepper to the dough.
• If buttermilk is not available, substitute with 1 cup milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar.
• For softer biscuits, avoid overbaking and remove them as soon as they are lightly golden.
• These biscuits can be frozen before baking and baked fresh when needed.

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Storage and Reheating

• Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5–7 minutes or until warmed through.
• Avoid microwaving, as it may make the biscuits chewy.