Get ready to take your breakfast to a whole new level with our indulgent Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits recipe. These tender and flaky biscuits are loaded with savory ham, sharp cheddar cheese, and fragrant chives, then baked to golden perfection in a pool of melted butter. Whether you’re enjoying them for brunch, serving them as a side dish, or simply indulging in a comforting snack, these biscuits are sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to create this delicious masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 8 oz sharp cheddar, cubed
- 2 cups diced ham
- 1/4 cup chives, chopped
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined.
- Add Cheese, Ham, and Chives: Add the cubed sharp cheddar cheese, diced ham, and chopped chives to the dry ingredients. Toss to coat the cheese and ham evenly with the flour mixture.
- Add Buttermilk: Pour the buttermilk over the dry ingredients and gently stir until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Form Biscuits: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop the dough into the prepared baking dish, forming 12 evenly sized biscuits.
- Butter Swim: Pour the melted butter over the tops of the biscuits, ensuring that each one is generously coated in butter.
- Bake: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with additional butter, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Cheese Selection: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss, for a unique flavor twist.
- Herb Variations: Substitute the chives with fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary for added freshness and aroma.
- Sweet Variation: For a sweet twist, omit the ham and chives, and add 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup to the dough for a touch of sweetness.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of these biscuits, replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour. Use diced turkey or chicken instead of ham, and opt for a low-carb cheese such as Gouda or Swiss. Replace the granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
- Low-Carb Version: Similarly, for a low-carb version, use almond flour or coconut flour in place of the all-purpose flour. Choose lean protein options such as turkey or chicken breast for the diced meat, and use a moderate amount of cheese to reduce the carb content further.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make these biscuits ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the biscuit dough in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to step 5, then cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow the biscuits to come to room temperature before proceeding with the recipe.
Q: Can I freeze leftover biscuits? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover biscuits in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I substitute buttermilk with regular milk? A: While buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and tender texture to the biscuits, you can substitute it with regular milk if needed. Simply add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes to sour before using.
Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of cubed cheese? A: While pre-shredded cheese can be used, it may not melt as evenly as cubed cheese. For best results, use freshly grated cheese or cube the cheese yourself.
Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any meal of the day. With their buttery, flaky texture and savory filling, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or alongside your favorite soup or salad, these biscuits are guaranteed to impress. So don your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits today!