Cheddar, Scallion, and Jalapeño Drop Biscuits: A Beginner’s Guide to Fluffy, Flavorful Biscuits

There is something incredibly satisfying about biting into a warm, buttery biscuit straight from the oven. The crispy edges, the soft and tender inside, and the rich, cheesy flavor make it a comfort food staple. However, many home cooks, especially beginners, find traditional biscuit-making intimidating. The thought of rolling out dough, cutting it into perfect shapes, and handling sticky flour-covered surfaces can feel overwhelming.

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This is where drop biscuits come in. Unlike traditional biscuits that require precise handling, drop biscuits are simply scooped and placed directly onto a baking sheet or in a cast-iron pan. There is no need for rolling or cutting, making them ideal for those who want a quick, homemade biscuit without the hassle.

The combination of Cheddar, scallions, and jalapeños in these biscuits adds a depth of flavor that makes them a perfect complement to hearty soups, stews, or even as a snack on their own. The sharpness of the cheese, the mild onion-like flavor of the scallions, and the subtle heat from the jalapeños create a delicious balance. These biscuits are easy to make, requiring only about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes total.

This recipe is great for beginner cooks because it is simple, forgiving, and requires minimal equipment. If you have never baked before, this is a great place to start. In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know, including ingredient substitutions, step-by-step instructions, and tips to ensure success.

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients

To make these Cheddar, Scallion, and Jalapeño Drop Biscuits, you will need:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder (helps the biscuits rise)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (balances the flavors)
• 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)
• ¼ cup chopped scallions (adds mild onion-like flavor)
• ½ to 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped (adjust based on spice preference)
• 2 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese, grated (about ½ cup)
• ¾ cup whole milk (adds moisture and helps form the dough)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing the biscuit tops)

Ingredient Substitutions and Alternatives

If you do not have some of the ingredients on hand or prefer variations, here are some easy swaps:

• Flour – You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but the biscuits may be denser. A 50/50 mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour is a good balance.
• Milk – If you do not have whole milk, you can use buttermilk, which will add a slight tanginess, or even a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk.
• Cheddar Cheese – While sharp Cheddar is recommended, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Gouda for a different flavor.
• Butter – If you only have salted butter, simply reduce the added salt in the recipe to ½ teaspoon.
• Jalapeño – If you prefer a milder biscuit, you can use poblano peppers or omit the peppers altogether.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using a cast-iron drop biscuit pan, place it in the oven while it heats to help create crispy edges. If using a regular baking sheet, you can lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening agent (baking powder) is evenly distributed, which helps the biscuits rise properly.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Using a pastry blender, two knives, or your fingertips, cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces. Keeping the butter cold is crucial because it creates steam pockets during baking, leading to a flaky, tender texture.

Step 4: Add the Flavor Ingredients

Stir in the chopped scallions, jalapeño, and grated Cheddar cheese. Tossing these ingredients in the flour mixture helps distribute them evenly, so every biscuit has the perfect amount of flavor.

Step 5: Add the Milk and Form the Dough

Gradually pour in the milk, stirring gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the biscuits tough. The dough should be slightly sticky but not overly wet.

Step 6: Preheat the Pan and Drop the Dough

If using a cast-iron pan, remove it from the oven and brush the bottoms and sides of the cups with melted butter. Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop, drop portions of dough into the pan or onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Bake the Biscuits

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top and cooked through. If unsure, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, they are ready.

Step 8: Brush with Butter and Serve

Remove the biscuits from the oven and immediately brush the tops with the remaining melted butter for extra richness and flavor. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Biscuits are too dry – This could mean too much flour was used. Always spoon and level the flour rather than scooping it directly from the bag.
• Biscuits spread too much – The butter may have been too warm. Keep the butter as cold as possible before mixing.
• Biscuits are not fluffy – Overmixing the dough can lead to dense biscuits. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.

Helpful Kitchen Tips

• Use a box grater for the butter – Instead of cutting butter into small cubes, try grating it with a box grater for even distribution in the flour mixture.
• Chill the dough for extra flakiness – If time allows, refrigerate the dough for 10 minutes before baking to ensure the butter stays cold.
• Adjust spice levels – If you love spice, leave the jalapeño seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Serving Suggestions

These biscuits are incredibly versatile. Here are some serving ideas:

• Pair with soups and stews – Serve alongside hearty dishes like chicken stew, beef chili, or creamy tomato soup.
• Make biscuit sandwiches – Slice in half and fill with grilled chicken, shredded beef, or scrambled eggs for a satisfying meal.
• Serve with honey or butter – For a touch of sweetness, drizzle honey or spread butter on a warm biscuit.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freeze – Freeze baked biscuits in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

Conclusion

These Cheddar, Scallion, and Jalapeño Drop Biscuits are an excellent recipe for beginners. They are quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making them the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you are new to baking or looking for a no-fuss biscuit recipe, this one is sure to become a favorite.

Try making these biscuits and experiment with different flavors. If you do, share your experience in the comments—what variations did you try? Did you serve them with a special dish? Baking is all about experimenting and finding what you love. Happy baking!