Cheese biscuits are a delectable treat that combine the comfort of a classic biscuit with the irresistible flavor of melted cheese. These savory delights are perfect as a side dish, a snack, or even a party appetizer. With their golden-brown exterior, soft interior, and gooey pockets of melted cheese, these biscuits are a delightful addition to any meal.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, based on preference)
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the Butter:
   • 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.
4. Add Cheese and Herbs:
   • Mix in the grated cheddar cheese and dried herbs. You can use a combination of herbs for extra flavor. If desired, add garlic powder and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the savory profile.
5. Incorporate the Milk:
   • Gradually add the milk to the dry mixture, stirring with a fork until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.
6. Shape the Biscuits:
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat it into a rectangle, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick.
   • Use a biscuit cutter or a round glass to cut out biscuits. Press straight down without twisting to ensure the biscuits rise evenly.
7. Bake:
   • Place the cut biscuits onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.
   • Sprinkle the tops of the biscuits with finely grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor and a crispy crust.
8. Baking Time:
   • Bake the cheese biscuits in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and have puffed up.
9. Serve:
   • Once the biscuits are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Enjoy your Cheesy Biscuits, versatile creations that strike the perfect balance between flakiness and cheesiness. Serve them warm alongside soups, stews, or salads, or enjoy them on their own as a delightful snack. Whether for a casual gathering or a comforting meal, these biscuits are bound to satisfy taste buds and bring smiles to faces.

TIPS:

• Keep Ingredients Cold: For the flakiest and most tender biscuits, it’s important to keep the butter and cheese cold throughout the process. You can even place the cubed butter and grated cheese in the freezer for a short time before incorporating them into the dough. This cold butter creates steam as it melts in the oven, resulting in those sought-after layers in your biscuits.
• Use the Folding Technique: To further enhance the layers in your biscuits, consider using the folding technique. After you’ve mixed in the grated cheese and herbs, gently fold the dough in half and then in half again, as if you’re folding a letter. This helps create additional layers and contributes to the flaky texture when the biscuits bake.