Ingredients
- 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)
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.
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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes