Easy Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a delightful treat, perfect for complementing a cozy dinner or as a standalone snack. These savory, cheese-infused biscuits are known for their perfect blend of flavors and textures, making them a favorite in many households. Here's a straightforward recipe to make these delicious biscuits at home.

For a variety of biscuit options, check out our other recipes like Drop Biscuits for a quick, fluffy treat; Cheddar Biscuits for a cheesy delight; Savory Biscuits infused with herbs and spices; Ham and Cheese Biscuits for a meaty, cheesy snack; and Cornmeal Biscuits, offering a unique taste and texture that pairs well with soups and stews. Each recipe provides a unique flavor and texture experience, perfect for expanding your biscuit-making repertoire.😉

What is Cheddar Bay Biscuits?

Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a popular and delicious type of biscuit often associated with the American seafood restaurant chain Red Lobster. These biscuits are known for their flaky, tender texture and their rich, cheesy, and garlicky flavor. They have become a signature item on Red Lobster's menu and are enjoyed by many diners as an appetizer or side dish.

Brief Highlights of This Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe

• Taste: Cheesy, garlicky, with a savory richness.
• Texture: Flaky, tender, with a crispy exterior and gooey cheese inside.
• Method: Mix dry ingredients, cut in cold butter, add cheese and buttermilk, scoop onto baking sheet, bake until golden, and brush with garlic butter mixture topping. 

Cheddar Bay Biscuits Ingredients

Note: The full ingredients list is provided in the recipe card below.

• All-Purpose Flour: This serves as the base and structure of your biscuits. Its gluten content is perfect for achieving a balance between tenderness and chewiness.
• Cornstarch: Added to soften the flour's protein content, cornstarch helps in creating a more tender biscuit.
• Baking Powder and baking Soda: These are leavening agents. Baking powder and soda help the biscuits rise and become fluffy. The baking soda also reacts with the acidic buttermilk, aiding in leavening and browning.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the biscuits and balances the sweetness.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness, enhances browning, contributes to texture, and balances flavors.
• Granulated Garlic: Provides a subtle, savory flavor, complementing the cheese and giving the biscuits their characteristic taste.
• Granulated onion: Adds savory onion flavor and texture to the biscuits, enhancing their taste.
• Cold Unsalted Butter: The cold butter, when cut into the flour, creates small pockets of fat, which melt during baking and provide flakiness and richness to the biscuits.
• Cheddar Cheese: The star ingredient! Thickly shredded cheddar adds a sharp, tangy flavor and a gooey texture when melted.
• Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang to the biscuits. Its acidity reacts with the baking soda for leavening and contributes to a tender crumb. 
• Dried Parsley: This herb adds a hint of earthy flavor and a touch of color, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and taste of the biscuits.

Tools you'll need 

• Large Mixing Bowl
• Pastry Cutter
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Rubber Spatula
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper
• Small Bowl
• Pastry Brush
• Large Ice Cream Scoop or Two Spoons

How to Make Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Note: The full instructions are provided in the recipe card below.

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat oven to 425ºF and position a rack in the middle. Line a 13x18-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, granulated onion, and granulated garlic.
3. Cut in Butter: Add the butter chunks. Using a pastry cutter or two knives, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until it looks like coarse sand with some pea-sized butter clumps. Alternatively, you can rub the butter into the mixture with your fingertips.
4. Add Cheese & Buttermilk: Mix in the shredded cheese. Add buttermilk and stir with a rubber spatula until the dough forms a shaggy, sticky mass. If dry, add 1-2 tablespoons more buttermilk. Avoid over-mixing.
5. Shape Biscuits: Use a large ice cream scoop to drop the biscuits onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them evenly and do not compact or smooth them; they should be irregular in shape.
6. Bake: Bake for 17-20 minutes, until biscuits are lightly golden.
7. Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, granulated onion, granulated garlic, and dried parsley. Brush this mixture over the tops of the warm biscuits.
8. Serve: Enjoy the biscuits warm.

Substitutions

• All-Purpose Flour: You can use Whole Wheat Flour as a healthier alternative, but it may result in denser biscuits.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: If you don't have baking soda, increase the baking powder to 3 teaspoons and skip the baking soda. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the biscuits.
• Salt: If you're using salted butter, you can reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe.
• Granulated Garlic: You can use garlic powder or Fresh Minced Garlic for a more intense garlic flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: You can use salted butter; just be sure to reduce the amount of additional salt called for in the recipe.
• Cheddar Cheese: You can substitute any other shredded hard cheese like Colby, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for different flavors. For a dairy-free option, consider using Dairy-Free Cheese. Keep in mind that this may alter the taste and melting characteristics of the biscuits.
• Buttermilk: If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute using one of the following methods: Milk + Vinegar/Lemon Juice: Mix 4 teaspoons of vinegar or lemon juice with enough milk to make a cup and let it sit for a few minutes. Alternatively, you can use Yogurt or Sour Cream thinned with a little milk or water as a buttermilk substitute.

Remember, substitutions may slightly alter the taste, texture, and appearance of the Cheddar Bay Biscuits, but they can still yield delicious results!

Variations

1. Herb-Infused: Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives into the dough for a fragrant, herby flavor.
2. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for biscuits with a bit of heat.
3. Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses such as Gruyère, Parmesan, or a mix of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
4. Whole Grain Twist: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier, heartier texture.
5. Garlic Lover's Dream: Increase the granulated garlic in the dough and add minced fresh garlic to the topping for an extra garlic punch.
6. Bacon-Cheddar: Add cooked, crumbled bacon into the dough for a savory, meaty flavor.
7. Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive: Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sliced olives for a Mediterranean flair.
8. Sweet & Savory: Add a small amount of honey or sugar to the dough, and top the biscuits with a sprinkle of coarse sea salt before baking.
9. Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese, plant-based milk mixed with lemon juice for buttermilk, and vegan butter.
10. Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
11. Mini Biscuits: Make smaller biscuits for party appetizers or children's snacks.

These variations can add an exciting twist to the classic Cheddar Bay Biscuit, making them perfect for different occasions and dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment with these ideas or create your own unique combinations!

Serving Suggestions:

How to Store & Re-Heat

Make Ahead & Freeze:

• Unbaked Cheddar Bay Biscuits can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, there's no need to thaw them beforehand. Simply bake them for a slightly longer duration than the usual baking time.
• For baked biscuits, allow them to cool completely before placing them in the freezer. When ready to consume, let them thaw at room temperature. To reheat, preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and warm the biscuits until they reach the desired temperature.

Tips for Making The Best Cheddar Bay Biscuits

• Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter and milk are cold when making the biscuit dough. Cold ingredients help create a flakier texture.
• Good-Quality Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar cheese for a robust flavor. Grate your cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese, as it tends to be drier and may not melt as well.
• Don't Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough biscuits. A few lumps in the dough are perfectly fine.
• Garlic Butter Topping: Brush the baked biscuits with a generous amount of garlic butter as soon as they come out of the oven. This adds flavor and keeps them moist.
• Fresh Garlic: Consider using freshly minced garlic in the butter topping for a more intense garlic flavor compared to garlic powder.
• Parsley Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the biscuits for both flavor and a pop of color.
• Baking Temperature: Preheat your oven properly to the recommended temperature in the recipe. This ensures even baking and golden-brown biscuits.
• Baking Time: Be mindful of the baking time; biscuits should be golden on the outside and tender on the inside. Overbaking can make them dry.
• Baking Surface: Use a parchment paper-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Proper Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Experiment: Feel free to experiment with variations like adding herbs, spices, or even bacon bits to customize the flavor to your liking.

FAQ

Why are my Cheddar Bay Biscuits dense and tough?

Overmixing the dough can lead to dense biscuits. Mix until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.

Why did my biscuits turn out flat?

Ensure your baking powder is fresh and active, and don't skip the preheating step. Flat biscuits can result from using expired baking powder or not having a hot enough oven.

Why do my biscuits taste bland?

To enhance flavor, use high-quality cheddar cheese, fresh garlic in the butter topping, and consider adding extra seasoning like herbs or spices to the dough.

Why are my Cheddar Bay Biscuits dry?

Overbaking or using too much flour can make biscuits dry. Follow the recommended baking time, and measure flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.

How can I prevent my biscuits from sticking to the pan?

Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to line your baking sheet. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

My biscuits spread too much while baking. What went wrong?

Chilled dough is essential to prevent excessive spreading. Make sure your butter and milk are cold, and consider chilling the dough for a few minutes before baking if needed.

Why are my biscuits too salty?

Pay attention to the salt content in both the biscuit mix and the cheese. Adjust the amounts as needed, and taste the dough before baking to ensure it's not overly salty.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

While cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or a combination to create unique flavors.

Why did my Cheddar Bay Biscuits turn out too dark on the outside?

Check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure it's accurate. Biscuits can darken too quickly if the oven is too hot.

How can I reheat leftover biscuits without making them dry?

Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes to avoid over-drying. You can also wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave briefly.

See More Biscuits Recipes:

• Whole Wheat Biscuits
• Sweet Potato Biscuits
• Cheese Biscuits
• Buttermilk Biscuits

📋 Recipe

Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Camila Benitez

Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a delightful treat, perfect for complementing a cozy dinner or as a standalone snack. These savory, cheese-infused biscuits are known for their perfect blend of flavors and textures, making them a favorite in many households. Here's a straightforward recipe to make these delicious biscuits at home.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Bread

Cuisine American

Servings 12

Tools

• Large mixing bowl:
• Pastry Cutter
• Measuring Cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Baking  Sheet
• Parchment paper
• small bowl
• Pastry brush
• Large Ice Cream Scoop or Two Spoons

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

For The Biscuits:

• ▢ 2 cups all-purpose flour , spooned into measuring cup and leveled-off
• ▢ 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• ▢ 1 teaspoon sugar
• ▢ 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ▢ ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ▢ 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ▢ ½ teaspoon granulated garlic
• ▢ 1 stick (½ cup) cold unsalted butter, cut into ½-inch chunks
• ▢ 1 cup freshly grated sharp Cheddar cheese
• ▢ 1 cup buttermilk (see note)

For the Topping:

• ▢ 3 tablespoons unsalted butter , melted
• ▢ ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ 1 /4 teaspoon onion powder
• ▢ 1 tablespoon dried parsley or finely chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

 

• Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat oven to 425ºF and position a rack in the middle. Line a 13x18-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, granulated onion, and granulated garlic.
• Cut in Butter: Add the butter chunks. Using a pastry cutter or two knives, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until it looks like coarse sand with some pea-sized butter clumps. Alternatively, you can rub the butter into the mixture with your fingertips.
• Add Cheese & Buttermilk: Mix in the shredded cheese. Add buttermilk and stir with a rubber spatula until the dough forms a shaggy, sticky mass. If dry, add 1-2 tablespoons more buttermilk. Avoid over-mixing.
• Shape Biscuits: Use a large ice cream scoop to drop the biscuits onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them evenly and do not compact or smooth them; they should be irregular in shape.
• Bake: Bake for 17-20 minutes, until biscuits are lightly golden.
• Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, granulated onion, granulated garlic, and dried parsley. Brush this mixture over the tops of the warm biscuits.
• Serve: Enjoy the biscuits warm.

Notes

How to Store & Re-Heat:

To store Cheddar Bay Biscuits, use an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature or in the fridge for up to 2 days.

When reheating, bake frozen or refrigerated biscuits at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave briefly. Avoid overheating to maintain their texture.

Make Ahead & Freeze:

Unbaked biscuits can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, there's no need to thaw them beforehand. Simply bake them for a slightly longer duration than the usual baking time.
For baked biscuits, allow them to cool completely before placing them in the freezer. When ready to consume, let them thaw at room temperature. To reheat, preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and warm the biscuits until they reach the desired temperature.

Nutrition Facts

Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Amount per Serving

Calories

163

% Daily Value*

Fat

 

7

g

11

%

Saturated Fat

 

4

g

25

%

Trans Fat

 

0.1

g

Polyunsaturated Fat

 

0.4

g

Monounsaturated Fat

 

2

g

Cholesterol

 

19

mg

6

%

Sodium

 

395

mg

17

%

Potassium

 

66

mg

2

%

Carbohydrates

 

20

g

7

%

Fiber

 

1

g

4

%

Sugar

 

1

g

1

%

Protein

 

5

g

10

%

Vitamin A

 

220

IU

4

%

Vitamin C

 

0.3

mg

0

%

Calcium

 

136

mg

14

%

Iron

 

1

mg

6

%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

All nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods, and portion sizes per household.

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