Delicious Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Introduction

At Love With Recipes, we understand that the culinary journey is as much about the experience as it is about the final product. Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to the kitchen, these Fresh Chive and Cheddar Biscuits are a celebration of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. They are a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can produce extraordinary results. These biscuits are perfect for elevating your brunch, serving as a side for hearty main courses, or simply enjoying as a snack. Their irresistibly flaky texture, combined with the aromatic freshness of chives and the richness of cheddar cheese, makes them a versatile addition to any culinary repertoire. Get ready to indulge in a baking adventure that will impress family, friends, and yourself alike.

Time

Preparation of these biscuits is a delightful process that takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, including mixing, shaping, and baking. The active labor involved is about 15 minutes, with the remaining time dedicated to baking and cooling. It’s an ideal recipe for a relaxed weekend brunch or a quick weekday treat, providing warm, cheesy, herb-infused biscuits in under half an hour.

Needed Equipment

• Standard oven (preferably convection for even baking)
• Large mixing bowl
• Sifter or fine-mesh sieve
• Whisk for dry ingredients
• Pastry cutter or two forks for cutting in butter
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife or chopper for chopping chives
• Measuring spoons
• Rolling pin
• Round biscuit cutter or glass (about 2-3 inches diameter)
• Baking sheet (preferably rimmed)
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat (for non-stick baking)
• Cooling rack (optional but recommended)
• Kitchen spatula or tongs (for transferring biscuits)

Tags

Herb, Savory, Cheddar, Biscuits, Baking, Quick, Family Friendly, Elegant, Breakfast, Snack

Serving Size

This recipe makes approximately 24 to 30 biscuits, depending on the size of your cutter. Typically, each serving includes 2 biscuits, making it suitable for serving 12 to 15 people comfortably. Adjust the serving size based on your needs or occasion.

Difficulty Level

Moderate. This recipe involves basic baking techniques such as cutting in butter, rolling dough, and shaping biscuits. If you are familiar with these skills, you’ll find this process straightforward. Beginners can approach it with patience, and the result is well worth the effort.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

Vegetarian. These biscuits do not contain any meat or seafood products, making them suitable for lacto-vegetarian diets. For vegan adaptations, substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter and plant-based milk.

Course

Appetizer / Side Dish / Snack

Cuisine

American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C). Proper preheating ensures the biscuits cook evenly and develop a golden, flaky crust. While the oven warms, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly grease if desired, although parchment and silicone mats prevent sticking without added fat.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Sifting aerates the mixture, resulting in lighter biscuits. Use a whisk to combine thoroughly, ensuring the leavening agents are evenly distributed. This step is crucial for achieving a consistent rise and fluffy texture.

Step 3: Incorporate the Butter

Cut the cold butter into small cubes using a sharp knife. Add these pieces to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs or pea-sized grains. The key is to keep the butter cold, which creates pockets of fat that melt during baking, resulting in flaky layers. Do not overmix; the goal is to distribute the butter evenly without melting it entirely.

Step 4: Add Chives

Stir in the chopped fresh chives, ensuring they are evenly dispersed throughout the mixture. The chives add a fresh, herbaceous note to the savory biscuits. For a more intense chive flavor, consider finely chopping additional chives and adding more as per your taste preferences.

Step 5: Mix in Milk and Form Dough

Make a well in the center of the mixture. Pour in 1½ cups of milk gradually. Using a spatula or your hands, gently fold the ingredients together until the dough begins to form. If the mixture appears too dry and crumbly, add an extra tablespoon or two of milk, one at a time, until the dough is slightly sticky but manageable. Overworking the dough can lead to tough biscuits, so handle it gently.

Step 6: Knead and Roll

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Sprinkle a little flour over the top and knead gently, just enough to bring it together into a cohesive ball. Overkneading can develop gluten, resulting in dense biscuits. Once gathered, roll the dough out to about one inch (2.5 cm) thickness using a floured rolling pin. Be mindful to keep the dough even in thickness for uniform baking.

Step 7: Cut Out Biscuits

Using a floured biscuit cutter or glass, cut out biscuits by pressing straight down without twisting. Twisting can seal the edges, preventing rise. Collect scraps, reform, and reroll the dough, repeating the process until all dough is used. Avoid overworking the scraps to maintain the tenderness of the biscuits.

Step 8: Assemble for Baking

Arrange the cut biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about one inch apart to allow for expansion. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over each biscuit. The cheese adds a savory crust and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and risen. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking, as oven temperatures can vary and smaller biscuits may cook faster. Once done, remove from oven and let cool slightly on a wire rack or the baking sheet itself.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Serve these warm, cheesy, and herbaceous biscuits immediately for the best experience. They pair beautifully with roasted meats, salads, or a simple butter spread. For a fancy brunch, serve with smoked salmon, cream cheese, or a dollop of sour cream. Their flaky, tender texture and rich flavor make them a standout addition to any table.

Preparation Tips

• Use cold ingredients: Keep your butter and milk refrigerated until just before use to ensure flakiness and proper rise.
• Do not overmix: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid dense biscuits.
• Adjust the size: Use a larger cutter for bigger biscuits or smaller for more delicate bites. Remember, size impacts baking time.
• Cheddar variety: For a sharper flavor, opt for aged cheddar. For a milder taste, use mild cheddar.
• Herb substitution: Experiment with other fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme for variation.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Keep everything cold: Chilled butter creates the flaky layers characteristic of good biscuits.
• Use fresh chives: Fresh herbs provide a vibrant flavor that dried herbs cannot replicate.
• Cheese choice: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and adheres more evenly, ensuring a cheesy crust.
• Uniform size: Consistent biscuit size ensures even baking and uniform texture.
• Enhance flavor: Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the dry ingredients for extra depth.

Add-ons

• Crumbled cooked bacon or pancetta for added savory richness
• Finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick
• Fresh herbs like dill or parsley for variation
• Swirling in a spoonful of Dijon mustard into the dough for tangy undertones
• Sprinkling with extra shredded cheese during the last few minutes of baking for a more pronounced cheesy crust

Side Dishes

• Roast chicken or turkey
• Grilled or roasted vegetables
• Hearty salads like Caesar or garden salad
• Soup, such as tomato basil or creamy potato
• Charcuterie boards with assorted cheeses and cured meats

Improvements

• For a flaky, layered biscuit, consider folding the dough over itself a couple of times before rolling out.
• Using buttermilk instead of milk can add tangy flavor and tenderize the dough.
• Incorporate grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese for a richer flavor profile.
• Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the dough for a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements.
• For extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted sesame or poppy seeds on top before baking.

Save and Store

Leftover biscuits can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 1 week. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze baked biscuits individually wrapped in plastic wrap and place in a zip-top bag. To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.

FAQ

Can I make these biscuits vegan?

Yes. Substitute the butter with vegan butter or margarine, and replace milk with plant-based alternatives such as almond, soy, or oat milk. Use vegan cheese to maintain the cheesy flavor.

Can I add other herbs or spices?

Absolutely. Feel free to experiment with dill, parsley, thyme, or even a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. Adjust quantities to suit your taste.

What if I don’t have fresh chives?

Dry chives can be used as a substitute, but fresh provides a brighter flavor. Use about 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of dried chives in place of 1 cup fresh.

How can I make these biscuits gluten-free?

Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Ensure that your baking powder is gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

The Fresh Chive and Cheddar Biscuits are more than just a bread; they are a celebration of herbs, cheese, and flaky, tender dough. Their versatility makes them suitable for breakfast, brunch, or dinner sides, and their straightforward preparation ensures that even novice bakers can achieve professional-looking results. The combination of fresh chives and sharp cheddar creates a balanced, savory flavor that elevates any meal. Remember, the key to perfect biscuits lies in using cold ingredients, gentle handling, and proper baking techniques. Whether serving them at a casual family gathering or an elegant brunch, these biscuits are sure to impress. Happy baking!

References

For further reading on biscuit techniques and flavor variations, see King Arthur Baking and Bon Appétit.