When the hunger pangs hit after a long day, I often find myself dreaming of warm, fluffy biscuits that are not only comforting but also packed with protein. That’s where these Cheddar Ham Biscuits come to my rescue! With the savory goodness of shredded cheddar, diced ham, and a hint of garlic, these biscuits are anything but ordinary.
Imagine opening your oven to the delightful smell of golden-brown treats that are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even as a snack anytime during the day. And let’s be honest, there’s something special about homemade biscuits that fast food just can’t compete with. They are incredibly simple to whip up—perfect for when you’re short on time but craving a hearty homemade meal.
So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s sure to satisfy those cravings and impress your family and friends alike. Your new favorite protein-packed biscuits await!
Why are Protein Biscuits a game changer?
Protein-packed goodness: These biscuits not only fill your stomach but also fuel your day with nutritious ingredients like cheddar and ham.
Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you’ll go from mixing bowls to mouthwatering biscuits in just about 20 minutes!
Versatile treats: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a savory snack on the go.
Impressive comfort food: Homemade warmth beats fast food every time and is sure to impress guests when served fresh from the oven.
Mouthwatering aroma: Fill your kitchen with the irresistible scent of baked goodness, making them hard to resist!
Dig into these delightful biscuits and elevate your homemade snack game today!
Protein Biscuits Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for these delicious Cheddar Ham Biscuits!
For the Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – a versatile base that gives your biscuits that perfect fluffiness.
- 1 Tablespoon baking powder aluminum-free – ensures your biscuits rise beautifully without any metallic taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda – adds a little extra lift to your biscuits during baking.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – enhances the flavor profile, giving a savory touch to each bite.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – balances the flavors in your biscuits.
For the Filling
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – adds delicious creaminess and a protein boost to your treats.
- 1 cup cooked diced ham – provides hearty protein that makes these biscuits satisfying.
- 1/3 cup finely diced chives – infuses a mild onion flavor and freshness into the mix.
For the Wet Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons avocado oil or melted coconut oil – keeps the biscuits moist without overpowering the flavors.
- 1 cup cottage cheese blended smooth – this secret ingredient adds moisture and an extra hit of protein.
- 1/4 cup milk plus more for brushing – helps to bind the mixture together and creates a beautifully golden crust.
- 2 teaspoons honey – a touch of sweetness that complements the savory elements perfectly.
For the Topping
- Topping: 2 Tbsp melted butter + 1 Tbsp honey or hot honey, and flaky salt – elevates the biscuits with a sweet-savory finish and a delightful crunch.
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and make these irresistible protein biscuits!
How to Make Protein Biscuits
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Preheat the oven to 425°F. This ensures your biscuits bake evenly and rise beautifully.
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Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, garlic powder, and salt in a large bowl. Then, stir in the cheddar cheese, chives, and ham until everything is well coated in flour.
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Create a well in the center of the dry mixture and add the avocado oil, blended cottage cheese, milk, and honey. Fold everything gently using a large spoon until it starts to come together, leaving some shaggy bits.
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Transfer the dough to a floured work surface. With flour-dusted hands, bring the dough together gently and flatten it into a 3/4-inch thick rectangle.
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Fold one side into the center, then cover with the other side (like a book). Flatten it out again into a 3/4-inch thick rectangle and repeat this folding process once more.
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Cut out biscuits using a 3-inch round cutter, pressing straight down without twisting. Re-roll any leftover dough and continue until you have about 10 biscuits.
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Arrange the biscuits closely in a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with a splash of milk for that gorgeous golden finish.
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Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until the biscuits are well-risen and golden brown on the tops.
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Whisk the melted butter and honey (or hot honey) together while the biscuits bake. Once they’re out of the oven, brush this mixture generously over the warm biscuits and sprinkle with flaky salt before serving.
Optional: Serve with a side of your favorite jam for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cheddar Ham Biscuits?
Imagine a cozy gathering where freshly baked biscuits are the star of the show, surrounded by delightful accompaniments that enhance their savory goodness.
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Creamy Potato Soup: This velvety soup adds a comforting warmth that pairs wonderfully with the fluffy texture of the biscuits. The rich flavors blend seamlessly, making each bite a delight.
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Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp lettuce and vibrant veggies contribute a refreshing crunch to your meal. Toss in a light vinaigrette to balance the savory richness of the biscuits.
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Honey Mustard Glazed Carrots: These sweet and slightly tangy roasted carrots provide a lovely contrast to the savory flavors of the cheddar and ham. Their vibrant color can brighten up any plate!
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Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy eggs bring a breakfast feel to your meal, making it perfect for brunch. Their mild flavor complements the boldness of the biscuits, creating a harmonious dish.
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Savory Fruit Chutney: A dollop of zingy chutney offers an unexpected yet delightful contrast. Its sweetness elevates the biscuits, adding depth and interest to every bite.
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Herbal Iced Tea: A refreshing drink that pairs surprisingly well with warm biscuits, herbal iced tea adds an aromatic touch without overpowering the flavors. Serve it sweet or unsweetened based on your preference.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet ending, why not treat yourself to classic chocolate chip cookies? The richness of the cookies perfectly caps off your meal, leaving everyone satisfied.
Dig in and enjoy crafting your deliciously complete dining experience with these wonderful pairings!
How to Store and Freeze Protein Biscuits
Room Temperature: Store cooled biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their fluffy texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving for optimal taste.
Freezer: Freeze protein biscuits in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven for best results.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat biscuits in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crisp.
Expert Tips for Protein Biscuits
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Don’t Overwork: Gently fold the dough; overworking can lead to tough biscuits. Keep that fluffy texture by mixing just until combined.
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Chill Your Ingredients: For lighter biscuits, use chilled cottage cheese and oil. This helps the dough maintain structure, resulting in a perfect rise.
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Cut Straight Down: When cutting the biscuits, press the cutter straight down and lift straight up. Twisting can seal edges and prevent proper rising.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh baking powder, cheese, and ham enhance the flavor of your protein biscuits. Check expiration dates to avoid bland results.
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Try Different Fillings: Feel free to experiment by adding cooked veggies or different cheeses to customize your protein biscuits to suit your taste!
Enjoy baking and savor every bite of these delicious protein biscuits!
Protein Biscuits Variations
Feel free to make these biscuits your own with a few delicious twists and turns!
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Whole Wheat: Swap all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber.
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Vegetarian Delight: Omit the ham and add a mix of sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a savory vegetarian option.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the dough for a zesty twist that’ll wake up your taste buds.
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Herb Infusion: Substitute chives with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to give your biscuits a delightful aromatic boost.
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Cheese Lovers: Try using a blend of cheeses, like mozzarella or Pepper Jack, along with cheddar for a gooey and flavorful experience.
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Sweet Treat: Add dried cranberries or blueberries instead of ham for a surprisingly sweet twist, making them perfect for brunch.
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Nutty Texture: Fold in some crushed nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for an added crunch and rich flavor profile.
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Onion Flavor Burst: Mix in some finely diced green onions or caramelized onions for a beautifully layered taste in every bite.
These variations invite you to sprinkle a little creativity into your baking process—enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
These Protein Biscuits are fantastic for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the biscuit dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the recipe until you’ve shaped the biscuits, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just pull them out and let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before brushing with milk and popping them into the oven. This ensures they are just as fluffy and delicious, providing you with comforting homemade biscuits with minimal last-minute effort!
Cheddar Ham Biscuits Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my cheese and ham are fresh enough to use?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, make sure the cheddar cheese has a fresh aroma, without any dark spots or dryness. For the ham, it should be firm and have a pleasant smell. If there are any unusual colors or odors, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
What’s the best way to store the biscuits after baking?
You can store cooled biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Alternatively, for longer freshness, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. I often recommend reheating them in the oven before serving to revive their fluffy texture!
Can I freeze these Cheddar Ham Biscuits? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your protein biscuits, first freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent sticking. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and label with the date. They’ll be good for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my biscuits don’t rise properly?
If your biscuits don’t rise, it might be due to expired baking powder or not folding the dough gently enough. Make sure to check the expiration date on your leavening agents, and remember to mix just until combined to keep them light and fluffy. Next time, try folding the dough less to see if that improves the texture.
Can I use alternative flours or ingredients to make these biscuits?
Very! If you’re looking for gluten-free options, feel free to substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Also, using Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese could add a thicker texture, and the flavor will still be delightful! Just keep in mind the consistency may vary slightly.
Are these biscuits suitable for pets?
It’s best to keep these biscuits away from pets, as ingredients like cheese and honey might not agree with their digestive systems. If you want to treat your furry friends, consider baking a separate batch using pet-safe ingredients like whole wheat flour and unsweetened pumpkin!
Protein-Packed Cheddar Ham Biscuits for a Hearty Snack
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F to ensure even baking and rising.
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, garlic powder, and salt in a large bowl. Stir in the cheddar cheese, chives, and ham until everything is well coated in flour.
- Create a well in the center of the dry mixture and add the avocado oil, blended cottage cheese, milk, and honey. Fold gently until it starts to come together, leaving some shaggy bits.
- Transfer the dough to a floured work surface. With flour-dusted hands, bring the dough together gently and flatten it into a 3/4-inch thick rectangle.
- Fold one side into the center, then cover with the other side (like a book). Flatten again into a 3/4-inch thick rectangle and repeat the folding process once more.
- Cut out biscuits using a 3-inch round cutter, pressing straight down without twisting. Re-roll any leftover dough and continue until you have about 10 biscuits.
- Arrange the biscuits closely in a cast-iron skillet or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with a splash of milk.
- Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until well-risen and golden brown.
- Whisk the melted butter and honey together. Once the biscuits are out of the oven, brush this mixture generously over the warm biscuits and sprinkle with flaky salt before serving.