why make this recipe
Make Ahead Buttermilk Biscuits with Cheddar and Chives are a fantastic way to enjoy warm, flaky biscuits without the hassle of preparing them from scratch every time you want a quick breakfast or snack. This recipe allows you to prepare the dough ahead of time, making busy mornings much simpler.
These biscuits are not only easy to make, but they are also deliciously cheesy and flavorful thanks to the addition of sharp cheddar cheese and fresh chives. Perfect for any occasion, these biscuits can enhance your meals or be enjoyed on their own.
equipment needed for Make Ahead Buttermilk Biscuits with Cheddar and Chives
To make the perfect biscuits, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools. First, have a large mixing bowl to combine your dry and wet ingredients. A pastry cutter or a fork will help you cut in the butter smoothly. A rolling pin is necessary for rolling out the dough to the right thickness, and a biscuit cutter—or even a glass—will help you cut the dough into the desired shapes.
Don’t forget a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking. It’s also helpful to have a measuring cup and spoons on hand for accuracy, along with a knife for chopping the chives. With these tools, you’ll have no trouble whipping up a batch of these tasty biscuits.
What You Need to Make Make Ahead Buttermilk Biscuits with Cheddar and Chives
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
How to Cook Make Ahead Buttermilk Biscuits with Cheddar and Chives Step by Step
To start, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature ensures that your biscuits will rise and become fluffy while baking. While the oven heats up, take a large bowl and mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. The dry ingredients need to be well combined to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Next, take the cold, diced unsalted butter and cut it into the flour mixture. You can use a pastry cutter, fork, or even your fingers. The goal is to create a texture similar to coarse crumbs. It’s important to work the butter in quickly; too much warmth from your hands can soften it, which could result in denser biscuits.
Once the butter is incorporated, pour in the buttermilk and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough biscuits. After that, gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped fresh chives. These ingredients add a savory flavor that complements the fluffy texture of the biscuits beautifully.
Now, it’s time to work with the dough. Turn the mixture onto a floured surface and knead it gently about 5 to 6 times. You want to bring everything together without overworking it. After kneading, roll out the dough until it’s about 1 inch thick. This thickness is perfect for achieving that soft center with a crisp exterior.
Using a biscuit cutter or a glass, cut out the biscuits and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. To preserve your hard work, it’s best to freeze the biscuits until they are firm. This step can make a big difference in keeping them fluffy during baking.
When you’re ready to enjoy them, remove the biscuits from the freezer. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown. This cooking time will ensure that the outside is crisp and the inside remains warm and soft.
how to make Make Ahead Buttermilk Biscuits with Cheddar and Chives
Making Make Ahead Buttermilk Biscuits with Cheddar and Chives is quite simple. Ensure that you follow the steps closely to capture the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Begin by gathering your ingredients and equipment to set yourself up for success.
After making the dough and cutting the biscuits, you have the option to freeze them for later use. Simply freeze the cut biscuits on the baking sheet until they are firm and then transfer them to a freezer bag for easy storage. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just pop them directly into the oven.
This flexibility saves time and allows you to enjoy fresh biscuits whenever the craving strikes. The delightful combination of cheddar and chives will fill your kitchen with an enticing aroma, making these biscuits hard to resist.
how to serve Make Ahead Buttermilk Biscuits with Cheddar and Chives
Serve these biscuits warm for the best flavor and texture. They are perfect by themselves but can also be paired with butter or a dollop of honey for a touch of sweetness. If you’re hosting brunch, consider offering them alongside scrambled eggs or a savory breakfast casserole for a hearty meal.
These biscuits also make a lovely accompaniment to soups and salads. Their cheesy, flavorful profile adds a nice touch to any dish. Whether served at breakfast or as a side at dinner, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
what to serve with Make Ahead Buttermilk Biscuits with Cheddar and Chives
Make Ahead Buttermilk Biscuits with Cheddar and Chives go well with many dishes. For breakfast, serve them alongside eggs, either scrambled, poached, or fried, with crispy bacon or sausage for a full meal.
If you’re preparing a brunch spread, consider pairing the biscuits with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a light salad. For lunch or dinner, they complement a variety of soups, especially creamy ones, or alongside a fun salad mix. Their savory flavor enhances almost any meal and adds a delightful twist.
how to store Make Ahead Buttermilk Biscuits with Cheddar and Chives
After baking, let any leftover biscuits cool completely before storing them. You can keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Wrap the cooled biscuits tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This method will keep them fresh for up to three months.
To reheat, simply pop the frozen biscuits in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. They’ll taste just as delicious as when they were first made!
tips to make Make Ahead Buttermilk Biscuits with Cheddar and Chives
For the best results, always use cold butter and buttermilk. This keeps the biscuits light and flaky. If you have it, using a food processor can speed up the mixing of the butter into the flour. Just be careful not to overmix.
Another tip is to avoid overworking the dough. Knead it gently and as little as possible. When rolling out the dough, ensure your work surface and rolling pin are well-floured to prevent sticking.
Want to experiment? Try different cheeses or herbs if you want to add a personal touch. A combination of cheeses can provide a unique flavor!
variation
If you’d like to shake things up, consider adding other ingredients to your biscuits. You can incorporate cooked and crumbled bacon or even diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
For a lighter version, substitute some of the flour with whole-wheat flour or use Greek yogurt instead of buttermilk. This will modify the flavor and texture slightly but can be a healthier alternative.
best time to make Make Ahead Buttermilk Biscuits with Cheddar and Chives
The best time to make these biscuits is during mornings, especially on weekends or holidays when you have a bit more time to enjoy cooking. Preparing the dough ahead of time means you can enjoy fresh-baked biscuits any morning, even on busy weekdays.
They also make an excellent addition to brunches or weekend gatherings, allowing you to impress family and friends with minimal effort.
common mistakes to avoid
A few common mistakes to avoid include overmixing the dough, which can lead to tough biscuits. Make sure you handle the dough with care and only mix until just combined.
Another mistake is using warm butter instead of cold. Cold butter is essential to create that lovely flaky texture. Lastly, ensure that your oven is preheated properly. Baking in an oven that isn’t hot enough may result in biscuits that don’t rise or bake evenly.
nutritional notes
While biscuits can often be high in calories, this version includes buttermilk, which provides a bit of protein and calcium. The cheddar cheese adds a savory taste along with fat and protein content.
Fresh chives not only enhance flavor but also contribute vitamins A and C. Those looking to modify this recipe for dietary needs can explore using lower-fat cheese or alternative dairy options without sacrificing too much flavor.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
You can, but it would be best to add a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of regular milk and let it sit for a few minutes to mimic buttermilk’s acidity.
How can I make these biscuits gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for better texture.
Can I make the dough the night before?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. Cut the biscuits in the morning, or you can freeze them for later baking.
conclusion
Make Ahead Buttermilk Biscuits with Cheddar and Chives are a delightful addition to any meal. Their perfect combination of savory flavors and flaky texture make them irresistible.
This recipe is not just about the biscuits; it’s about making life easier and more delicious. With a little prep work, you can enjoy warm, freshly baked biscuits whenever the craving hits. Try making them this weekend, and simplify your mornings with a taste of homemade goodness!