If you're on the hunt for a biscuit that's more than just a bread sidekick, these Savory Cheddar Thyme Biscuits are a game-changer. With their cheesy goodness and herby punch, they elevate any meal or snack time.
All-purpose flour provides the structure for the biscuits. It's the base ingredient that holds everything together. Baking powder is your leavening agent, giving the biscuits their rise and fluffiness. A pinch of salt enhances the flavors, while black pepper adds a subtle kick. Unsalted butter, when combined with the flour, creates that crumbly, tender texture we love in biscuits. The star of the show, sharp cheddar cheese, adds a rich, tangy flavor. Fresh thyme brings a fragrant, earthy aroma that pairs beautifully with the cheese. Lastly, whole milk brings moisture to the dough, making it soft and pliable.
These biscuits are fantastic alongside a hearty soup or stew. They also make a wonderful base for eggs Benedict, replacing traditional English muffins for a unique twist. Alternatively, enjoy them with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey for a sweet-salty treat.
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This way, once your biscuits are ready to bake, the oven is already nice and hot. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the biscuits from sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. This ensures the leavening is evenly distributed and helps avoid pockets of salt or pepper in your biscuits.
Now, grab your chilled butter. You can use a pastry cutter or just your fingers to work it into the flour mixture. Aim for a texture resembling coarse crumbs; this is the secret to a flaky biscuit.
Stir in the cheddar cheese and thyme until they’re well distributed. This way, every bite is packed with cheesy, herby goodness.
Gradually add the milk, stirring continuously, until a soft dough forms. You want it to come together without being too sticky.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead it gently about 5-6 times — just enough to bring it together without overworking it, which can make the biscuits tough.
Roll or pat the dough to about 1-inch thickness. Then, using a biscuit cutter, cut out rounds. It’s okay to gather up the scraps and re-roll them once to get a few more biscuits.
Place the biscuits on your prepared baking sheet. Pop them in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they're golden brown on top. The aroma will let you know they're ready!