Black Pepper Cheddar Bacon Biscuits
Ingredients:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper (add more for extra spice)
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6 slices)
3/4 cup buttermilk (plus extra for brushing)
1 egg (optional, for brushing)
Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
Cut in the Butter:
Add the cold cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your hands, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with small pea-sized butter bits.
Add Cheese and Bacon:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Toss gently to combine.
Add Buttermilk:
Pour in the buttermilk and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be a bit shaggy but hold together.
Shape the Biscuits:
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it 3-4 times to bring it together. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Using a biscuit cutter or a glass, cut out biscuits (about 2-3 inches in diameter).
Arrange and Bake:
Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each biscuit. If desired, whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water and brush the tops of the biscuits for a golden finish. Alternatively, brush with extra buttermilk.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top.
Serve:
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley for added flavor and color.