Cheese and Ham Biscuits

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon vinegar)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)

1/2 cup diced ham or cooked bacon bits (plus more for topping)

Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Freshly ground black pepper (for topping)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. If you’re using garlic powder or onion powder, add it here.

Cut in the Butter:

Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add the Buttermilk, Cheese, and Ham:

Pour in the buttermilk and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and diced ham.

Shape the Biscuits:

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a rectangle about 1 inch thick. Use a biscuit cutter or a round cookie cutter to cut out the biscuits. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet.

Add Toppings:

Brush the tops of the biscuits with the beaten egg. Sprinkle additional shredded cheese and dicedham on top of each biscuit. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper.

Bake the Biscuits:

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve:

Serve the biscuits warm, either on their own or with a spread of butter.

These cheese and ham biscuits are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a savory snack. The combination of flaky layers, melted cheese, and savory ham makes them irresistible. Enjoy! Let me know if you have any questions or need more tips.