Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why these cheddar jalapeño biscuits will become a favorite.
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Only a handful of ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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Ready in under 30 minutes.
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Flaky and cheesy. The perfect texture combination.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves biscuits.
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Budget-friendly. Flour, butter, cheese, and jalapeños are inexpensive.
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Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
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Great for leftovers.
Ingredients
Servings: 8 to 10 biscuits
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
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1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
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2 to 3 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
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3/4 cup buttermilk
Ingredient Notes
Flour: Use all-purpose flour.
Baking powder and baking soda: Help the biscuits rise.
Butter: Use cold butter. Dice it into small pieces.
Cheddar cheese: Use sharp cheddar.
Jalapeños: Seed and finely chop them.
Buttermilk: Adds tang and moisture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and garlic powder.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Add the Cheese and Jalapeños
Stir in the cheddar cheese and jalapeños, making sure they are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Add the Buttermilk
Create a well in the center of the mixture and pour in the buttermilk. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overwork the dough.
Step 6: Shape and Cut
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick round and use a biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits.
Step 7: Bake
Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow to cool slightly before serving warm.
How to Serve Cheddar Jalapeño Biscuits
These flaky, cheesy biscuits are delicious on their own, but a few accompaniments make them even better.
With Butter: Spread with softened butter.
With Honey: Drizzle with honey for sweetness.
With Gravy: Perfect for sopping up sausage gravy.
With Soup: Serve alongside chili or tomato soup.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
Variations & Tips
Make Them with Pepper Jack: Use pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
Make Them with Green Onions: Add chopped green onions.
Make Them with Bacon: Add crumbled bacon.
Make Them with Herbs: Add thyme or rosemary.
Make Them with Garlic: Add extra garlic powder.
Make Them with Paprika: Add smoked paprika.
Make Them with Buttermilk: Use buttermilk for tang.
Make Them Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour.
Make Them Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and cheese.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Use cold butter. This creates flaky layers.
Do not overwork the dough. This keeps the biscuits tender.
Do not twist the biscuit cutter. This seals the edges and prevents rising.
Bake until golden brown. This ensures they are cooked through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. Monterey Jack or pepper jack can be used.
Can I use a different pepper?
Yes. Poblano or bell peppers can be used.
Can I use a different milk?
Yes. Regular milk with a splash of vinegar can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Refrigerate the dough and bake just before serving.
Can I freeze these biscuits?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why are my biscuits flat?
The butter was too warm. Use cold butter.
Why are my biscuits tough?
The dough was overworked. Mix just until combined.
Can I add more jalapeños?
Yes. Use up to 4 jalapeños.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any baking sheet works.
The Beauty of Homemade Biscuits
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, flaky biscuit that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. These cheddar jalapeño biscuits are a celebration of all those things.
Keep flour, butter, and buttermilk in your pantry and fridge. Keep cheese and jalapeños in your fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 to 15 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Yield: 8 to 10 biscuits