Step 1: Making the Biscuit Dough
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using).
- Add the Cheese and Bacon: Stir in the shredded cheese and crumbled bacon until evenly distributed.
- Add the Buttermilk: Pour in the buttermilk and stir until just combined. The dough will be sticky and lumpy—don’t overmix!
Step 2: Preparing the Bacon and Cheese
- Cook the Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy, either in a skillet or in the oven. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.
- Shred the Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor. You can shred your own or use pre-shredded cheese.
Step 3: Swimming the Biscuits in Butter
- Melt the Butter: Pour the melted butter into an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish. Make sure the butter covers the bottom of the dish evenly.
- Add the Dough: Spoon the biscuit dough into the dish, spreading it out evenly. The dough will swim in the butter—this is what gives the biscuits their amazing texture!
- Score the Dough: Use a knife to lightly score the dough into 9 squares (this makes it easier to separate the biscuits after baking).
Step 4: Baking and Serving
- Bake the Biscuits: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Slightly and Serve: Let the biscuits cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. They’re best enjoyed warm with a pat of butter!
5. Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast Sandwiches: Use these biscuits to make breakfast sandwiches with eggs, more bacon, and cheese.
- Side Dish: Serve alongside soups, stews, or chili for a comforting meal.
- Brunch: Pair with scrambled eggs, sausage, and fruit for a hearty brunch spread.
6. Tips for Perfect Biscuits
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can make the biscuits tough. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use Cold Ingredients: Cold buttermilk and shredded cheese help keep the biscuits fluffy.
- Sharp Cheddar is Key: Sharp cheddar adds a rich, bold flavor that pairs perfectly with the bacon.
7. Variations and Customizations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy version.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like chives, rosemary, or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
- Different Cheeses: Swap the cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda.
8. FAQs and Storage Tips
- Can I Make These Ahead? Yes! These biscuits can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- Can I Freeze Them? Absolutely. Freeze the baked biscuits in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
- What If I Don’t Have Buttermilk? You can make a quick buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 3/4 cups of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
9. Conclusion: Fluffy, Buttery, and Irresistible!
These Bacon and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are everything you want in a biscuit—rich, savory, and satisfying. The combination of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and buttery goodness makes these biscuits a standout addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Enjoy the warm, cheesy, bacon-filled goodness in every bite!