White Cheddar, Bacon, and Apple Biscuits

These White Cheddar, Bacon, and Apple Biscuits are the perfect combination of savory and sweet. The sharpness of white cheddar pairs beautifully with the smoky bacon and the natural sweetness of apples, creating a delicious, flaky biscuit that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish for dinner. Serve them warm with butter for an irresistible treat!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
  • ½ cup apple, finely diced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work best)
  • ¾ cup buttermilk, cold
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash, optional)

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon (if using).
  3. Cut in butter: Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Add cheese, bacon, and apple: Stir in the shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, and diced apple until evenly distributed.
  5. Incorporate buttermilk: Gradually add the cold buttermilk, stirring gently until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
  6. Shape the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch-thick rectangle. Fold the dough in half and pat it down again. Repeat this process 2-3 times to create flaky layers.
  7. Cut the biscuits: Use a round biscuit cutter or a knife to cut the dough into biscuits. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, slightly touching for soft sides or spaced apart for crispier edges.
  8. Brush with egg wash (optional): Lightly brush the tops of the biscuits with beaten egg for a golden finish.
  9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
  10. Cool and serve: Let the biscuits cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with butter or honey!

Nutrients (Per biscuit, approximately)

  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 7g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 320mg

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Biscuits are a staple in many households, but this particular combination takes them to the next level. The traditional biscuit is often buttery and flaky, but the addition of white cheddar, bacon, and apple elevates the flavor profile significantly. The cheese adds a creamy, slightly tangy bite, while bacon infuses a deep umami richness. The apple, whether it’s a tart Granny Smith or a sweet Honeycrisp, complements the other ingredients by adding moisture and a hint of sweetness.

Another reason these biscuits stand out is their texture. The layers created by folding the dough result in a perfectly tender bite, and the buttermilk ensures that the biscuits remain soft on the inside while developing a golden, crisp exterior. They are easy to make but taste as if they came from a high-end bakery.

Ideal Occasions for Serving

These biscuits are incredibly versatile and can be served on various occasions. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy them:

  • Breakfast or Brunch: Serve them warm with a pat of butter, alongside eggs and fresh fruit for a well-rounded morning meal.
  • Side Dish for Dinner: These biscuits pair beautifully with roasted meats, soups, and stews, adding a rich, savory element to your meal.
  • Holiday Gatherings: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive occasion, these biscuits make an excellent addition to any feast.
  • Snack or Appetizer: Enjoy them on their own or with a bit of honey, jam, or even a light drizzle of maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.

The Role of Each Ingredient

Each component in this recipe contributes to the final taste and texture:

  • White Cheddar Cheese: Sharp white cheddar is key to achieving a rich and slightly tangy flavor. It melts beautifully within the dough, adding pockets of creamy, savory goodness.
  • Bacon: The crispy, smoky bacon provides a robust contrast to the softer ingredients, enhancing the overall depth of flavor.
  • Apple: Whether you choose a tart Granny Smith or a sweeter Honeycrisp, apples add a hint of natural sweetness and moisture, preventing the biscuits from becoming too dry.
  • Buttermilk: This ingredient is essential for achieving a tender, flaky texture. Its slight acidity also reacts with the baking soda, ensuring a good rise.
  • Unsalted Butter: Cold, cubed butter is incorporated into the dough to create those desirable flaky layers. The result is a biscuit that is both light and rich.
  • Seasonings: A touch of black pepper and optional cinnamon provide subtle warmth and enhance the overall complexity of the flavor.

Tips for the Best Biscuits

To make sure your biscuits turn out perfectly every time, consider these baking tips:

  • Use Cold Ingredients: Cold butter and buttermilk help create flakier biscuits. You can even chill your flour and bowl for extra insurance against over-warming.
  • Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overworking the dough can lead to tough biscuits. Mix just until everything comes together.
  • Layering for Flakiness: Folding the dough multiple times creates layers, leading to an airy and tender texture.
  • Baking Placement Matters: Placing the biscuits close together results in soft sides, while spacing them apart allows for crispier edges. Choose based on your preference!
  • Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference: Use high-quality cheese, fresh apples, and good-quality bacon for the best flavor.

Possible Variations

While the combination of white cheddar, bacon, and apple is already a winner, you can customize the biscuits in a few ways:

  • Different Cheese: Swap white cheddar for another sharp cheese like gouda, gruyère, or aged cheddar for a unique twist.
  • Add Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives can enhance the savory aspect of the biscuits.
  • Spicy Kick: A dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika adds a slight heat that complements the smokiness of the bacon.
  • Nutty Addition: Chopped walnuts or pecans can provide an extra crunch and enhance the autumnal feel of the biscuits.
  • Maple-Glazed Finish: Brushing a light maple glaze over the warm biscuits adds a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory elements.

Pairing Suggestions

To fully enjoy these biscuits, consider pairing them with complementary dishes and drinks:

  • Beverages: A cup of freshly brewed coffee, a chai latte, or even a crisp apple cider enhances the flavors in the biscuits.
  • Breakfast Companions: Serve alongside scrambled eggs, sausage, or a simple fruit salad for a complete meal.
  • Dinner Pairings: They go well with roasted chicken, creamy soups like butternut squash or potato soup, and even grilled pork chops.
  • Dips and Spreads: Honey butter, apple butter, or a whipped herb cream cheese spread can add extra depth to each bite.

Why These Biscuits Are a Must-Try

If you’re a fan of both sweet and savory flavors, these biscuits are an absolute must-try. Their balance of sharp cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh apple creates a perfect harmony of flavors that makes them stand out from traditional biscuits. The texture is irresistibly flaky yet tender, and they offer the kind of comfort food warmth that makes them suitable for any meal or occasion.

They’re also incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of simple ingredients that, when combined, create something truly special. Whether you’re making them for yourself, your family, or a gathering with friends, they are sure to impress.

Conclusion

White Cheddar, Bacon, and Apple Biscuits are more than just a baked treat—they are a fusion of bold flavors and comforting textures. Their versatility makes them suitable for breakfast, brunch, dinner, or even a midday snack. With a perfect balance of sharp, smoky, and sweet elements, they offer something for everyone. Whether served warm with butter, alongside a hearty meal, or enjoyed with a cup of coffee, these biscuits will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

If you’re looking for a way to elevate your biscuit game, this recipe is a must-try. It brings together classic ingredients in a unique and delicious way, making every bite a delightful experience. So, go ahead and bake a batch—you won’t be disappointed!

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