When the craving for those fluffy, buttery biscuits hits, nothing compares to the bliss of freshly baked goodness. I found myself yearning for the iconic Cheddar Bay Biscuits from Red Lobster but wanted to keep things gentle on my conscience and my belly. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if I could recreate those savory bites while staying true to my plant-based lifestyle?
That’s how I stumbled upon this delightful vegan copycat recipe. Imagine fluffy biscuits rising beautifully in the oven, their golden tops glistening as they warm your kitchen with the enchanting aroma of garlic and vegan cheddar. Each bite is a perfect balance of comforting textures and flavors—flaky yet substantial, savory yet slightly sweet.
Best of all, this easy recipe ensures you won’t be spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick 20-minute bake time, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing treat that even your non-vegan friends will rave about. Who knew comfort food could be this simple and satisfying? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure and make some delightful biscuits!
Why will you love these Vegan Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits?
Heavenly texture: These biscuits bring that classic fluffiness with a crispy exterior, without any animal products. Bold flavors: Our savory blend of garlic, onion, and vegan cheddar creates a taste experience that rivals the originals. Quick and easy: With a total prep and bake time of around 30 minutes, you can enjoy homemade delights in no time. Perfect for gatherings, these biscuits are sure to please everyone, even those who aren’t plant-based. Customizable ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs or cheese alternatives to make these biscuits uniquely yours. Embrace the joy of homemade goodness with a recipe that’s simple and satisfying!
Vegan Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits Ingredients
For the Biscuits
- Vegan butter – 8 tablespoons (112 g), cold; using cold butter helps create that perfect flaky texture.
- Soy milk – About 1 cup (250 mL), cold; make vegan buttermilk by mixing with apple cider vinegar.
- Apple cider vinegar – 1 tablespoon; this adds a nice tang that complements the baking soda.
- All-purpose flour – 2 ¼ cups (270 g); the main structure of the biscuits, giving them their body.
- Baking powder – 2 tablespoons (24 g); this helps the biscuits rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
- Granulated sugar – 2 teaspoons (10 g); a pinch of sweetness balances the savory elements.
- Salt – 1 teaspoon; enhances all the flavors and ensures your biscuits are well-seasoned.
- Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon; a must for that signature flavor reminiscent of the classic recipe.
- Onion powder – ½ teaspoon; adds depth to the savory profile of the biscuits.
- Baking soda – ¼ teaspoon; works with the vinegar to make these biscuits light and airy.
- Vegan cheddar cheese shreds – ¾ cup (80 g); for that delightful cheesy flavor, use your favorite brand.
- Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped; adds a pop of color and freshness to the biscuits.
For the Topping
- Melted vegan butter – 3 tablespoons; brushing this on top right after baking keeps the biscuits moist and delicious.
- Fresh parsley – 1 tablespoon, chopped (for topping); enhances the appearance and freshens the flavor.
- Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon (for topping); brings that garlic goodness right to the surface for a flavorful finish.
With these Vegan Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from baking a batch of irresistible, plant-based treats that are sure to win hearts!
How to Make Vegan Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits
-
Chill the Butter: Remove the vegan butter from the refrigerator, cut it into small cubes, and chill it in the freezer for about 10 minutes. This step helps achieve those flaky layers!
-
Prepare the Buttermilk: In a large liquid measuring cup, combine the apple cider vinegar with cold soy milk until it reaches the 1 cup line. Mix well and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. Chill this mixture along with a large mixing bowl in the freezer for 10 minutes.
-
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 430°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
-
Mix Dry Ingredients: Remove the bowl from the freezer and add the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and baking soda. Use a whisk or fork to mix everything until well combined.
-
Create Breadcrumb Texture: In a food processor, combine ¾ of the flour mixture and the chilled butter cubes. Pulse on high for about 30 seconds, or until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs—this is key to fluffy biscuits!
-
Combine Ingredients: Add the breadcrumb mixture back into the mixing bowl. Make a well in the center of the flour blend and pour in the chilled buttermilk, gently stirring until just combined. Fold in the vegan cheddar cheese and chopped parsley.
-
Scoop and Bake: Using an ice cream scoop or a ¼ cup measuring cup, drop dollops of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the biscuits are golden brown on top.
-
Prepare Topping: While the biscuits are baking, mix the melted vegan butter, chopped parsley, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Once the biscuits are done, brush this delicious topping generously over them while they’re still warm.
Optional: Serve warm with a side of your favorite vegan soup or salad for a delightful meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Room Temperature: Store the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and enjoyable.
Fridge: For longer storage, place the biscuits in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezer: Freeze the biscuits in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last for up to 2 months; just thaw and reheat when you crave a warm bite.
Reheating: To enjoy your delicious vegan biscuits again, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.
Expert Tips for Vegan Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits
-
Keep Ingredients Cold: Always use cold vegan butter and chilled buttermilk to ensure that your biscuits rise beautifully and maintain a flaky texture.
-
Don’t Overmix: Stir the biscuit dough gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits—keep that tenderness!
-
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh parsley and quality vegan cheddar cheese. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavors, making your biscuits irresistible.
-
Test for Doneness: Bake until golden brown, but keep an eye on them, as ovens can vary in heat. Moisture in the dough can keep them from browning otherwise.
-
Customize Your Flavors: Feel free to experiment with spices or add-ins like jalapeños or nutritional yeast for a unique twist on these Vegan Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits!
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits are the perfect solution for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and baking soda) up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The chilled vegan butter can be cut into cubes and stored in the freezer for the same duration. When you’re ready to enjoy these biscuits, simply combine the dry ingredients with the chilled buttermilk, fold in the cheese and parsley, and bake. This way, you’ll have hot, fluffy biscuits that are just as delicious, with minimal effort right before serving!
Vegan Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe and make it your own!
-
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free delight. Just like magic, you can enjoy those fluffy biscuits without the gluten!
-
Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a delightful heat. This extra warmth will excite your taste buds and make each bite a memorable experience.
-
Herbed Twist: Mix in 1 tablespoon of dried Italian herbs or fresh thyme for a fragrant, herby flavor. The aroma of herbs will fill your kitchen, making it feel more inviting every time you bake.
-
Alternative Cheeses: Experiment with different dairy-free cheese options like pepper jack or mozzarella for varied flavors. Each cheese brings its own delightful characteristics, so feel free to get creative!
-
Chive Addition: Replace parsley with chopped chives for a mild onion flavor. This change adds a subtle twist and creates an equally delicious herbal profile.
-
Bacon Flavor: Incorporate vegan bacon bits for extra savory goodness. This is a fun twist that will appeal to everyone, enhancing those rich flavors.
-
Coconut Milk: Substitute soy milk with coconut milk for a subtle tropical flair. Imagine biting into a biscuit that carries a hint of sweetness and creaminess from coconut!
-
Cheesy Jalapeño: Include sliced jalapeños along with the cheddar for a spicy, cheesy variation. The heat from jalapeños alongside melted cheese creates a comforting explosion of flavor!
What to Serve with Vegan Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits?
Dive into a feast that complements the warmth and cheesy goodness of these delightful biscuits.
- Creamy Vegan Soup: A thick and comforting soup, like a broccoli cheddar, pairs perfectly with the biscuits for a cozy meal.
- Fresh Green Salad: Crisp greens dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the biscuits.
- Sautéed Garlic Spinach: The garlicky, tender spinach echoes the flavors of the biscuits, making for a heavenly side dish.
- Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy, buttery cauliflower mash can bring an extra element of comfort and a lighter alternative to potatoes.
- Herb-Infused Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa seasoned with fresh herbs and lemon complements the texture of the biscuits while adding a nutritious touch.
- Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables enhance the meal’s color and provide a delicious, caramelized flavor that goes wonderfully.
- Chilled Sparkling Lemonade: Bright and bubbly, this drink offsets the richness of the biscuits and refreshes your palate beautifully.
- Vegan Gravy: Drizzle rich vegan gravy over these biscuits for an indulgent, savory twist that elevates any meal experience.
- Coconut Custard Pie: For dessert, this creamy pie offers a sweet finish with a tropical touch that contrasts with the savory biscuits.
- Herbal Chamomile Tea: Sip on soothing chamomile tea to wind down the meal, enhancing the relaxation brought by these cozy biscuits.
Vegan Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right vegan butter for the biscuits?
Absolutely! Look for a high-quality vegan butter that’s firm when cold, as this helps with the flaky texture. I recommend choosing a brand that contains coconut oil or shea butter for the best results. Make sure to check the ingredients for any oils or additives you might want to avoid!
What’s the best way to store leftover biscuits?
For short-term storage, keep your biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to savor them longer, transferring them to the fridge will allow them to stay fresh for up to 5 days. Just be sure to reheat them in the microwave or oven for that warm, freshly-baked feel!
Can I freeze the biscuits for later?
Definitely! To freeze your Vegan Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits, begin by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about 2 hours until they’re solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
What should I do if my biscuits don’t rise properly?
Very good question! If your biscuits come out dense, check if your baking powder and baking soda are fresh—old leavening agents might not work effectively. Also, be careful not to overmix the dough, as that can lead to tough, flat biscuits. When mixing, aim for just combined, and don’t worry about a few lumps!
Are these biscuits suitable for people with allergies?
Yes! These Vegan Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits are free of dairy and eggs, making them great for those following a plant-based diet. However, be mindful of gluten if you need to avoid it; you could try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitution, although it may alter the texture slightly.
Can I modify the recipe to make it healthier?
Absolutely! You can experiment with whole wheat flour for more fiber or use less vegan cheese if you prefer a lighter biscuit. Incorporating additional herbs like rosemary or thyme can enhance the flavor without adding calories. Just keep in mind that modifying the flour or fat might change the texture a wee bit, so enjoy the process of customizing!
Vegan Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits Made Better at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chill the vegan butter in the freezer for about 10 minutes.
- Combine apple cider vinegar with soy milk to make buttermilk, let sit to thicken.
- Preheat the oven to 430°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
- Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl until combined.
- Pulse together the butter and dry mixture to create a breadcrumb texture.
- Mix the buttermilk with the breadcrumb mixture, then fold in vegan cheddar and parsley.
- Scoop batter onto the baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes.
- Prepare topping and brush over biscuits once baked.