Cheese Biscuits With Ham
Cheese biscuits with ham offer a savory, cheesy flavor complemented by spicy cayenne and tender ham slices, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or snack occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift flour, baking powder, salt, and cayenne pepper into a large mixing bowl.
- Cut in the vegetable shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add shredded Cheddar cheese and toss to coat.
- Drizzle ice water over the dry ingredients and mix lightly with a fork just until the dough holds together.
- Turn dough out onto a lightly floured board and knead lightly 7 to 8 times.
- Roll the dough to 1/2 inch thickness and cut with a 2-inch cutter.
- Place the cut biscuits 1/2 inch apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and cut open the biscuits.
- Insert slices of cooked ham into each biscuit before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using buttermilk instead of ice water. If you're out of vegetable shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter. Make sure to knead the dough gently to avoid tough biscuits. You can also add herbs like chives or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese biscuits with ham make a delightful addition to a brunch spread, especially paired with fresh fruit and a light salad. For a heartier meal, serve alongside Family Favorite Baked Beans or a refreshing cucumber salad. They also make a perfect snack or appetizer for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the biscuits soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Biscuits With Ham contains roughly 180 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 794mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before rolling and cutting.
What can I use instead of sharp Cheddar cheese?
You can substitute sharp Cheddar with any cheese that melts well, like Gruyère or Monterey Jack. For a twist, try a flavored cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick, enhancing the flavor profile of your biscuits.
How do I know when the biscuits are done baking?
The biscuits are done when they are golden brown on top and have risen nicely. You can also gently tap the top; if it sounds hollow, they are likely ready. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).