As I stood by the oven, a delightful scent wafted through the kitchen, beckoning everyone to gather around. These Flaky Savory Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or simply as a midday snack that satisfies. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its irresistibly soft and buttery texture, but also in its easy versatility—swap the ham for veggies or try different cheeses to create your own signature version. Plus, they come together in no time, making them a lifesaver for those busy mornings or spontaneous brunch get-togethers. Who wouldn’t want to pull a tray of these golden biscuits from the oven and watch loved ones light up? Ready to impress and bring comfort to your table? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are these biscuits so irresistible?
Warm, Flaky Texture: The combination of cold butter and buttermilk creates a biscuit that’s light yet rich, with every bite melting in your mouth.
Savory Delight: Packed with ham and cheese, these biscuits offer a robust flavor that’s perfect for any meal or snack.
Versatile Options: Easily customize by swapping ham for sautéed vegetables or different cheeses like goat or pepper jack—endless possibilities!
Quick & Easy: Made in under 30 minutes, they fit seamlessly into busy mornings or last-minute brunches. Imagine serving these to delighted guests!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a holiday gathering or a simple family breakfast, everyone loves a warm biscuit fresh from the oven. Ready to get started? You’ll fall in love with this Cowboy Butter Chicken and these Garlic Butter Meatballs too!
Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits Ingredients
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For the Biscuits
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure; use a gluten-free blend if needed for dietary concerns.
• Baking powder – Acts as the leavening agent, ensuring the biscuits rise perfectly; check for freshness!
• Salt – Enhances the flavor; sea salt adds a delightful twist.
• Cold unsalted butter – Essential for flakiness; keep it chilled to achieve that buttery softness.
• Shredded cheddar cheese – Offers savory richness; feel free to swap for mozzarella or pepper jack.
• Cooked diced ham – Adds a savory, protein-packed filling; consider cooked bacon or omit for a vegetarian option.
• Cold buttermilk (or regular milk) – Contributes moisture; you can use regular milk, but the taste varies slightly.
• Egg (for egg wash) – Gives a beautiful golden finish; leave out for a vegan solution. -
Optional Flavorings
• Garlic powder – Adds depth; fresh garlic can substitute for a stronger punch.
• Onion powder – Enhances the savory taste; replace with sautéed fresh onions if preferred.
• Fresh parsley or chives – Provides a lovely pop of color on top; chopped green onions work well too.
These Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits are truly a delight, bringing warmth and comfort to your table with the perfect blend of flavors and textures!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This setup creates a welcoming environment for your warm and flaky Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits, allowing them to bake evenly and rise beautifully as you mix the dough.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder, if using. This combination will ensure even distribution of the leavening agent and seasonings. Aim for a uniform blend, which will provide the flavorful base for your Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, unsalted butter into the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs with some small chunks remaining. These butter bits are crucial for creating the flakiness in your biscuits, so keep them cold and visible as you go.
Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Pour in the cold buttermilk (or regular milk) and gently mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and airy—your goal is a shaggy dough that’s moist but not sticky. This moisture is essential for the soft center of the Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits.
Step 5: Laminate the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a rectangle. Perform a lamination step by folding the dough into thirds, as if folding a letter. Rotate the dough, and repeat this folding process 2-3 times to create layers, which will enhance the biscuit’s flaky structure and texture perfectly.
Step 6: Roll and Cut
Roll the dough out to about ½ inch thick on a floured surface. Use a sharp biscuit cutter to cut out rounds without twisting the cutter. This will ensure the edges remain open for better rising. Gather any excess dough, re-roll it, and cut more rounds until all dough has been used for your Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits.
Step 7: Assemble the Biscuits
Place half of the biscuit rounds onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the cooked diced ham and shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of each round. Then, place the remaining biscuit rounds over the filled ones and gently seal the edges to keep the filling secure during baking.
Step 8: Brush and Bake
Brush the tops of the biscuits with an egg wash to achieve a golden brown finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, until they are puffed and golden. Your kitchen will be filled with a mouthwatering aroma, signaling that your Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits are nearly ready to enjoy.
Step 9: Cool and Garnish
Once baked, remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve these warm biscuits to your family and friends, and watch their faces light up with joy!
What to Serve with Flaky Savory Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits
These warm, buttery biscuits are perfect for building a delightful meal that pleases everyone at the table.
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Fresh Salad: Crisp greens with a zesty vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the biscuits, brightening your brunch spread beautifully.
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Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs offer a protein-packed partner; their creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the flaky softness of the biscuits, making every bite a joy.
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Fruit Compote: A sweet fruit compote brings a burst of color and flavor, complementing the savory biscuits perfectly while adding a touch of sweetness to each bite.
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Savory Gravy: Pouring a rich sausage or mushroom gravy over the biscuits turns them into a sumptuous feast, amplifying the comfort level of your meal—ideal for a family gathering.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables balance the flavors with their earthy notes and add healthy elements, creating a vibrant and wholesome meal.
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Herbed Cream Cheese Spread: Spread a layer of herbed cream cheese on warm biscuits for an indulgent treat that adds creaminess and an aromatic twist; this is a delightful option for snacking.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: A chilled glass of sparkling apple cider heightens the dining experience, offering a bubbly, festive quality that pairs beautifully with the buttery flavors of the biscuits.
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Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea provides a comforting accompaniment, ideal for breakfast or brunch, and enhances the warmth of the biscuits.
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Cheese Platter: Include a small cheese platter with assorted cheeses; the variety of textures and flavors will beautifully mirror the buttery richness of the biscuits.
Feel free to mix and match these serving suggestions based on your guests’ preferences to create the ultimate meal experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Flaky Savory Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, to maintain their quality. Alternatively, you can cut the biscuits and place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply brush with the egg wash and bake straight from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time for that fresh-from-the-oven experience. This way, you can have delicious, homemade biscuits with minimal effort on hectic mornings!
Storage Tips for Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits
Room Temperature: Store baked biscuits in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Ensure they cool completely before sealing to maintain their flaky texture.
Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate the biscuits in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the oven for about 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore warmth and flakiness.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked biscuits by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: When reheating the biscuits, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes until warm and crispy. Enjoy your delightful Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits any time!
Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your biscuits with these tasty twists!
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Vegetarian: Substitute the ham with cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious meat-free option. These earthy flavors still bring savory satisfaction to every bite.
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Cheese Lover’s Delight: Experiment with different cheeses such as goat cheese, feta, or even blue cheese for a unique flavor profile. Each cheese adds its personality, making every batch a delightful surprise!
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Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic lift. The fragrant notes will elevate the biscuits, making them perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying during cozy evenings.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. This twist introduces a fantastic depth, creating an exciting flavor explosion that pairs wonderfully with the buttery texture.
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Savory Sweet: Consider adding a hint of honey or maple syrup in the dough for a sweet-savory interplay. It’s an unexpected twist that can elevate your breakfast experience or brunch gatherings.
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Taste of Italy: Try adding sun-dried tomatoes and basil for an Italian twist. These additions create a refreshing and vibrant flavor perfect for serving alongside pasta dishes.
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Classic Southern: For down-home flair, stir in crumbled bacon instead of ham. This smoky flavor is synonymous with Southern comfort and will have everyone reaching for seconds!
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Meal Prep Savvy: To simplify your mornings, prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze the unbaked biscuits. Bake them fresh from frozen for warm, flaky goodness on busy mornings.
The beauty of these Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits lies in their versatility. So whether you’re whipping up a batch for brunch or a quick snack, try these variations to keep things exciting! Don’t forget to pair them with a warm cup of coffee or a refreshing salad for breakfast or lunch—similar to the delightful experiences found in our Baked Cream Cheese recipe. Happy cooking!
Expert Tips for Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits
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Chill Ingredients: Ensure your butter and buttermilk are very cold. This is crucial for achieving those light, flaky layers in your biscuits.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits rather than the tender texture you desire with these Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits.
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Sharp Cutter Method: When cutting the biscuits, use a sharp cutter and avoid twisting it. Twisting seals the edges, preventing them from rising properly.
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Rest the Dough: Letting the dough rest in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes can help enhance the rise and flakiness of your biscuits.
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Season Wisely: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor. Don’t hesitate to experiment with rosemary or chives to add an extra layer of deliciousness to your Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits.
Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ham for the biscuits?
Absolutely! When selecting ham, aim for a lean cut that is fully cooked and smoked for an enhanced flavor. Look for ham labeled “city ham” or “black forest ham” for a more pronounced taste. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ham with cooked spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for a delicious alternative.
What is the best way to store leftover biscuits?
For optimal freshness, store your baked Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate them, and they will last for up to 5 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to maintain that wonderful flaky texture!
Can I freeze unbaked biscuits?
Absolutely! To freeze unbaked Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag and they can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them directly from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the cooking time for the best results.
What if my biscuits come out tough?
If your biscuits are tough, it likely means the dough was overmixed or the butter was not cold enough. Always mix the dough gently, just until combined, to ensure a tender texture. Also, verify that your butter and buttermilk are ice cold; this is crucial for achieving those desirable fluffy layers.
Are there any dietary considerations for the Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits?
Yes! If anyone has allergies, be mindful of gluten, dairy, and egg content in this recipe. You can easily make them gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, and for a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with margarine or coconut oil. To make these biscuits vegan, omit the egg wash and use a plant-based milk instead!
How long do the biscuits last in the fridge?
Stored properly in the refrigerator, your Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Just keep them in an airtight container and warm them slightly in the oven before serving to retain their wonderful flakiness!
Warm and Flaky Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder, if using.
- Add the cold, unsalted butter into the dry mixture and work until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour in the cold buttermilk and gently mix until just combined.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and fold it into thirds, rotating and repeating 2-3 times.
- Roll the dough out to about ½ inch thick and cut out rounds without twisting the cutter.
- Place half of the biscuit rounds onto the baking sheet, sprinkle with ham and cheese, and top with remaining rounds.
- Brush tops with an egg wash and bake for 15-18 minutes until puffed and golden.
- Cool for a few minutes and garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
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