Cheddar Cheese Drop Biscuits
Introduction
Cheddar Cheese Drop Biscuits are soft, fluffy, buttery, and loaded with rich cheddar cheese. Unlike traditional rolled biscuits, these are made by simply mixing the dough and dropping spoonfuls onto a baking sheet, making them one of the easiest homemade breads you can prepare. Their crisp golden tops and tender interiors make them perfect for breakfast, brunch, soups, stews, barbecues, or holiday dinners. Best served warm, these biscuits are packed with cheesy goodness in every bite.
History
Biscuits have been a beloved part of Southern American cooking since the 1800s. Originally made with simple pantry staples such as flour, butter, milk, and baking powder, biscuits became a daily bread for many families. Cheese biscuits gained popularity as cheddar cheese became widely available, adding a richer flavor and softer texture. Today, cheddar drop biscuits are famous in home kitchens and restaurants because they are quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Recipe Information
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 18–22 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 10–12 biscuits
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the Biscuits
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cold buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Garlic Butter Topping
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chopped parsley
- Pinch of salt
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Ice cream scoop or spoon
- Pastry brush
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 3
Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4
Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 5
Pour in the cold buttermilk and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 6
Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop, drop equal portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step 7
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
Step 8
Mix the melted butter, garlic powder, parsley, and salt.
Step 9
Brush the warm biscuits generously with the garlic butter.
Step 10
Serve warm and enjoy.
Baking Methods
Classic Oven Method
Bake in a preheated oven for the best rise and golden crust.
Cast-Iron Skillet Method
Arrange the biscuits in a lightly greased cast-iron skillet for softer sides and crisp bottoms.
Air Fryer Method
Bake at 360°F (182°C) for 10–12 minutes, checking for doneness.
Chef’s Tips
- Use very cold butter for flaky biscuits.
- Grate your own cheddar for better melting.
- Mix the dough gently to keep the biscuits tender.
- Brush with garlic butter immediately after baking.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Flavor Variations
- Jalapeño Cheddar Biscuits
- Bacon Cheddar Biscuits
- Herb and Parmesan Biscuits
- Mozzarella Garlic Biscuits
- Pepper Jack Biscuits
- Ham and Cheese Biscuits
- Chive Cheddar Biscuits
- Everything Bagel Cheese Biscuits
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Biscuit)
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
Serving Suggestions
These biscuits pair wonderfully with:
- Tomato soup
- Chicken noodle soup
- Beef stew
- Chili
- Scrambled eggs
- Fried chicken
- Barbecue dishes
- Honey or fruit jam
Storage
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
Why Biscuit Lovers Enjoy This Recipe
People love these cheddar biscuits because they are:
- Soft and fluffy
- Rich with cheesy flavor
- Buttery and tender
- Easy to prepare
- Perfect for breakfast or dinner
- Family-friendly
- Great for holidays and gatherings
- Delicious fresh from the oven
Favorite Baking Methods Among Biscuit Lovers
Many home bakers recommend:
- Using freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese for maximum flavor.
- Chilling the dough for 10 minutes before baking for extra height.
- Brushing the biscuits twice with garlic butter for a richer finish.
- Baking on parchment paper for even browning.
- Serving warm with butter, honey, or homemade jam.
Conclusion
Cheddar Cheese Drop Biscuits are a timeless comfort food that combines a crisp golden crust with a soft, fluffy, cheese-filled center. Easy to make and incredibly versatile, they complement everything from hearty soups to holiday feasts. Whether you’re baking for your family, entertaining guests, or simply craving warm homemade bread, these cheesy biscuits are sure to become a favorite recipe you’ll make again and again.