The humble biscuit is transformed into a savory delight when you add a dash of cheddar.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to recreate Ina Garetn’s divine cheddar biscuits at home. Look out for our top tips to help you make the perfect biscuits every time.
We’ve also included some extra recipes using herbs like dill and chive, which elevate these biscuits wonderfully.
Ina Garten’s buttermilk cheddar biscuits recipe is a perfect blend of tangy buttermilk and rich, sharp cheddar encased in a flaky, buttery biscuit.
Starting with basic dry ingredients like all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt, the recipe quickly elevates as cold unsalted butter is cut into the mix, followed by a wet blend of buttermilk and eggs.
The real star, grated extra-sharp cheddar, is folded into the dough, ensuring each bite is packed with cheesy goodness.
The dough is gently kneaded, cut into rectangles, and brushed with an egg wash for a golden finish upon baking.
These biscuits, baked at 425 degrees F until browned, are a testament to the magic of marrying simple ingredients with culinary technique. They result in a treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dinner.
We’ve included some serving suggestions later on in this article, so keep reading to understand what to pair them with.
Cheddar-dill scones merge the comforting texture of classic scones with the bold flavors of sharp cheddar and fresh dill.
This recipe from Ina Garten begins with a foundation of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Cold, unsalted butter is added, creating a crumbly texture.
Eggs and cold heavy cream add moisture and richness, setting the stage for the flavor enhancements of small-diced cheddar and minced fresh dill.
Once combined, the dough is rolled, cut into triangles, and brushed with egg wash, resulting in scones that bake up crusty on the outside and tender on the inside.
Baked at 400 degrees F, these scones are a flavorful twist on a traditional baked good. They offer a savory complement to any meal and a delightful way to enjoy the aromatic qualities of dill and the sharpness of cheddar.
Ina Garten’s chive biscuit recipe presents a delicate balance of flavors. Fresh chives provide a mild, onion-like taste that complements the biscuits’ rich, buttery background.
This recipe takes the traditional biscuit base—flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar—and enhances it with cold, diced, unsalted butter, ensuring the resulting biscuits have a tender, flaky texture.
The addition of half-and-half introduces a slight richness, while the chopped fresh chives add both color and flavor.
After a brief kneading, the dough is cut into rounds and brushed with an egg wash, leading to a beautifully browned top when baked.
If you want the perfect combination of flavors, you can also add cheddar cheese into the mix, which pairs well with chive.
What To Serve With Cheddar Biscuits
Cheddar biscuits are wonderfully versatile and can complement a wide array of dishes.
For breakfast or brunch, they pair beautifully with scrambled eggs, bacon, and even fresh fruit, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
These biscuits also make an excellent accompaniment to soups and stews, adding a rich, savory element that enhances the flavors of the main dish.
For a lighter option, serve alongside a crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheddar.
Cheddar biscuits can also stand alone as a snack, perhaps accompanied by a spread of soft, herbed cheese or a dollop of fruit jam for a sweet-and-savory contrast.
Additionally, they make fantastic sandwiches filled with slices of ham, turkey, or a thick slice of tomato and leafy greens for a quick and delicious lunch.
The key to pairing cheddar biscuits is to consider the balance of flavors and textures, ensuring that the rich, cheesy goodness of the biscuits enhances rather than overwhelms the accompanying dishes.
Top Tips For Making Perfect Cheddar Biscuits
Begin with high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to the cheddar—opt for an extra-sharp variety for a deeper flavor.
Ensure all your ingredients, particularly butter and buttermilk, are cold to help achieve that desirable flaky texture.
When mixing your dough, do so gently to avoid overworking it; overmixing can lead to tough biscuits.
Incorporating the cheese evenly throughout the dough ensures each biscuit is filled with cheesy goodness.
For a beautifully browned and crispy top, don’t skip the egg wash—it adds color and a slight shine.
Be mindful of your oven temperature and baking time; biscuits should be removed when they’re golden brown but still soft to the touch.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of seasoning. A little salt can elevate the flavors of your biscuits, and if you’re feeling adventurous, spices like paprika or garlic powder can add an interesting twist.
Following these tips will help you bake cheddar biscuits that are not only delicious but also boast the perfect texture and flavor balance.
Final Thoughts
These recipes from the Barefoot Contessa showcase how adding ingredients like cheddar or herbs like chives and dill can truly transform the humble biscuit.
These little treats are perfect for any time of day, and they are versatile enough to accompany a range of dishes.
And don’t be afraid to experiment – when you’ve got Ina’s basic recipe down, you can play with different flavors to create cheddar biscuits that are unique to your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do you eat with cheddar cheese biscuits?
Cheddar cheese biscuits are versatile; pair them with soups, salads, eggs, or use them for sandwiches.
Which liquid makes the best biscuits?
Buttermilk is often favored for its ability to produce tender, flavorful biscuits with a slight tang.
What is the secret to a good biscuit?
The secret lies in using cold fats, not overworking the dough, and baking at the right temperature for flakiness and tenderness.
Are cheddar cheese biscuits good for you?
In moderation, cheddar cheese biscuits can fit into a balanced diet, especially when made with whole wheat flour or reduced-fat cheese, to increase their nutritional value.
I'm Barbara Hunt, the founder of WomenChefs.org. Being a mom of two, I understand the challenges of meal planning and the monotony it can bring.
That's why I created WomenChefs.org, a platform dedicated to showcasing the skills and delicious dishes crafted by amazing women. My goal is to provide a space where women can find delectable recipes that tantalize their taste buds and ignite their senses.
I hope you'll join me in exploring WomenChefs.org and discovering your next favorite recipe. Let's embrace culinary diversity and try something new together!
