Jalapeno Cheddar Biscuits

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Looking to add a flavorful twist to your baking repertoire? Look no further than these mouthwatering Jalapeno Cheddar Biscuits! A delightful blend of savory cheddar cheese, zesty jalapenos, and buttery goodness, these biscuits are guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed as a snack, these biscuits are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Follow this simple recipe to whip up a batch of these irresistible treats in no time!

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup cubed unsalted butter (very cold)
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for folding and cutting)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons fresh jalapeno peppers, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cold buttermilk (plus 1 tablespoon more for brushing)
  • 6 jalapeno slices (optional, for topping)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or butter a cast iron skillet and set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut and mix the butter into the flour until coarse crumbs form.
  3. Add the salt, baking powder, sugar, garlic powder, chopped jalapenos, and 1/2 cup of cold buttermilk to the bowl. Gently mix them in with a spatula or folding spoon.
  4. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until just combined. Avoid overworking the dough; it may appear crumbly at this point.
  5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and form it into a rectangle. Fold and flatten the dough a few times, then shape it into a rectangle about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick using your hands or a rolling pin.
  6. Cut the dough into biscuits using a glass or biscuit cutter about 2-3 inches in diameter. Gather and re-roll any scraps to make more biscuits.
  7. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking tray or cast iron skillet. Top each biscuit with a sliced jalapeno, if desired. Transfer the tray to the freezer and freeze the biscuits for 10-15 minutes.
  8. After freezing, brush the biscuits with the remaining buttermilk. Bake for 20-23 minutes or until golden brown on top.
  9. Once baked, remove the biscuits from the oven and brush them generously with melted butter. Serve warm and enjoy the deliciousness of these jalapeno cheddar biscuits!

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Suggestions:

  • Fresh and Warm: These Jalapeno Cheddar Biscuits are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they’re still warm and fragrant. Serve them alongside your favorite soups, stews, or chili for a comforting meal.
  • Brunch Delight: Impress your brunch guests by serving these biscuits with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and a side of avocado for a flavorful and satisfying morning spread.
  • Party Pleaser: These biscuits make a fantastic appetizer for gatherings and parties. Pair them with a creamy dip or salsa for a crowd-pleasing snack that will disappear in no time.

Storage Tips:

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftover biscuits in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat them in the oven or toaster oven for a few minutes before serving to regain their warm, flaky texture.
  • Freezing: These biscuits also freeze well for longer storage. Once cooled completely, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 months. To reheat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and warm them in the oven before serving.

Variations :

  • Bacon Twist: For an extra indulgent treat, add crispy bacon bits to the biscuit dough before baking. The savory bacon flavor pairs perfectly with the spicy jalapenos and sharp cheddar cheese.
  • Cheesy Herb Blend: Experiment with different cheese varieties and herb combinations to create unique flavor profiles. Try using pepper jack cheese for an extra kick or adding fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme for a burst of freshness.
  • Sweet and Spicy: Add a touch of sweetness to your biscuits by incorporating honey or maple syrup into the dough. The subtle sweetness complements the heat from the jalapenos and adds a delightful contrast of flavors.
  • Vegan Option: Make these biscuits vegan-friendly by using dairy-free butter and cheese alternatives, such as vegan cheddar shreds. Substitute the buttermilk with a plant-based alternative like almond milk mixed with a splash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess.
  • Gluten-Free Alternative: For those following a gluten-free diet, swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the baking powder used is also gluten-free. The biscuits may have a slightly different texture but will still be deliciously flavorful.
  • Mini Biscuit Bites: Instead of traditional-sized biscuits, make bite-sized mini versions by using a smaller biscuit cutter. These mini biscuit bites are perfect for serving as appetizers or party snacks.

FAQs:

  1. Can I adjust the spiciness of the biscuits?
    • Yes, you can control the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of jalapenos you add to the dough. Feel free to increase or decrease the quantity according to your preference.
  2. Can I make the biscuits ahead of time?
    • Absolutely! You can prepare the biscuit dough in advance, shape them into biscuits, and then freeze them. When ready to bake, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
  3. What should I serve with Jalapeno Cheddar Biscuits?
    • These biscuits pair well with a variety of dishes such as soups, salads, grilled meats, or even enjoyed on their own as a tasty snack.
  4. Can I substitute the buttermilk with regular milk?
    • While buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps create a tender texture, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar for a similar effect.
  5. How can I make the biscuits more flaky?
    • To achieve flakier biscuits, ensure your butter is very cold and handle the dough as little as possible. The cold butter creates steam when baked, resulting in those desirable flaky layers.
  6. Can I freeze the baked biscuits?
    • Yes, you can freeze the baked biscuits for up to a month. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. To reheat, simply thaw and warm in the oven.
  7. What if I don’t have a biscuit cutter?
    • No biscuit cutter? No problem! You can use the rim of a drinking glass or simply cut the dough into squares using a sharp knife.

With just a few simple steps, you can elevate your mealtime with these homemade Jalapeno Cheddar Biscuits. Whether served as a side or enjoyed as a snack, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. So why wait? Spice up your baking routine today and indulge in the deliciousness of these flavorful biscuits!