These Ham and Cheese Buttermilk Biscuits combine the classic flavors of savory ham and sharp cheddar cheese, all enveloped in a tender, flaky biscuit. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a hearty snack, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings. The secret to their delightful texture lies in the cold butter and buttermilk, which create steam during baking, resulting in those coveted flaky layers. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite spread, these biscuits are a delicious addition to any meal.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 3/4 cup cold buttermilk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup finely diced cooked ham
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.
- Add the cold butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or two forks, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced ham, and chives (if using) until evenly distributed.
- Pour in the cold buttermilk and gently stir until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a rectangle approximately 1/2-inch thick.
- Fold the dough in half, then rotate it 90 degrees. Pat it out again into a 1/2-inch thick rectangle. Repeat this folding process once more to create flaky layers.
- Using a 2-inch biscuit cutter, cut out biscuits and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Gather any scraps, gently pat them together, and cut out additional biscuits.
- Brush the tops of the biscuits with melted butter.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and allow the biscuits to cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 32 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 250 kcal per serving | Servings: 10 biscuits
The Ultimate Ham and Cheese Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe: A Southern Classic
Few things in life bring as much comfort as a warm, buttery biscuit fresh out of the oven. Add savory ham and melty cheddar cheese, and you’ve got a masterpiece of flavor and texture. Ham and Cheese Buttermilk Biscuits are a beloved Southern staple, combining the rich tradition of flaky, buttery biscuits with the satisfying taste of smoky ham and sharp cheese. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or a midday snack, this recipe is sure to impress.
The History Behind Southern Biscuits
Biscuits have a deep-rooted history in Southern cuisine. Originally influenced by British baking traditions, early American settlers crafted biscuits as a simple yet filling bread alternative. Unlike the hard, twice-baked biscuits of Europe, Southern biscuits evolved into tender, flaky creations, thanks to the introduction of buttermilk and baking powder in the 19th century.
The combination of ham and cheese in biscuits is a relatively modern twist that enhances both the flavor and protein content, making them a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Historically, ham was a prized ingredient in the South due to the region’s tradition of curing and smoking pork, while cheddar cheese added a creamy, tangy bite that complemented the biscuit’s soft crumb.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors – The saltiness of the ham pairs beautifully with the sharpness of the cheddar, creating a biscuit that’s rich yet not overpowering.
- Tender, Fluffy Texture – Thanks to the magic of cold butter and buttermilk, these biscuits rise beautifully, creating soft layers inside while maintaining a golden, crispy exterior.
- Versatile and Easy to Customize – You can easily tweak the recipe by adding jalapeños for a spicy kick, using different types of cheese, or even substituting turkey for ham if you prefer a lighter option.
- A Make-Ahead Winner – These biscuits freeze exceptionally well, making them a convenient choice for busy mornings or meal prep. Simply reheat in the oven, and they’ll taste just as fresh as the day you baked them.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
While biscuits are traditionally seen as indulgent, this recipe offers a few nutritional benefits:
- Protein-Packed: With ham and cheese included, these biscuits provide a good amount of protein, keeping you full longer.
- Calcium Boost: Cheddar cheese is a great source of calcium, which is essential for bone health.
- Balanced Carbohydrates: While biscuits contain carbs, pairing them with protein-rich ham slows digestion, preventing spikes in blood sugar.
For a slightly healthier variation, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, or use Greek yogurt in place of some of the butter for a lighter texture.
How to Serve Ham and Cheese Buttermilk Biscuits
These biscuits can be enjoyed in numerous ways:
- Breakfast Sandwich: Slice one open and add a fried egg or extra ham for a hearty breakfast sandwich.
- Brunch Side Dish: Serve alongside scrambled eggs, grits, or a fresh fruit salad for a well-rounded brunch.
- Afternoon Snack: Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful mid-day treat.
- Dinner Companion: These biscuits make a fantastic side for soups, stews, or a roasted meat dish.
Tips for Baking the Perfect Biscuits
- Use Cold Ingredients – Cold butter and buttermilk are key to achieving flaky layers. Warm butter melts too quickly, preventing the biscuits from rising properly.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough – Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Layer for Extra Flakiness – Folding the dough over itself a few times before cutting helps create beautiful, buttery layers.
- Use a Sharp Cutter – When cutting out biscuits, use a sharp-edged biscuit cutter (not a glass) to ensure clean edges, which help them rise evenly.
- Bake at High Heat – A hot oven (around 425°F) helps the biscuits rise quickly, creating a tender yet crisp exterior.
Storing and Reheating
- Room Temperature: If planning to eat within 24 hours, store them in an airtight container.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.
Conclusion
Ham and Cheese Buttermilk Biscuits are more than just a recipe—they’re a celebration of Southern comfort food, bringing warmth and nostalgia to any table. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a weekend brunch, or a quick morning treat, these biscuits are guaranteed to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a biscuit that’s fluffy, cheesy, savory, and downright irresistible!
