Introduction
Parmesan Black Pepper Biscuits are a delightful twist on the classic biscuit, combining the nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese with a kick of black pepper. These biscuits are perfect for brunch, a side to your favorite dish, or even enjoyed on their own with a bit of butter. The fluffy texture and cheesy goodness make them a must-try for any baking enthusiast.
Ingredients
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
4 teaspoons baking powder
2 ½ teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
¾ cup unsalted butter, frozen
1 ¾ cups buttermilk
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15-18 minutes
Total Time
30-33 minutes
Yield
Approximately 16 biscuits
These Parmesan Black Pepper Biscuits are sure to impress with their aroma and flavor. Serve them warm to enjoy the crispy exterior and soft inside, making any meal memorable.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, baking powder, freshly ground black pepper, kosher salt, and baking soda until well combined.
Incorporate Butter
Using the large holes of a box grater, grate the frozen unsalted butter directly into the flour mixture. Gently stir to distribute the butter evenly throughout the mixture.
Add Buttermilk
Pour the buttermilk into the bowl and stir with a rubber spatula until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
Knead and Roll Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently 3-4 times until it comes together. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 1 ¼ inches thick.
Cut Biscuits
With a sharp knife, cut the dough into 2-inch square biscuits. Alternatively, use a 2-inch biscuit or cookie cutter to shape the biscuits. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
Freeze Briefly
Place the baking sheet with the biscuits into the freezer for 15 minutes. This helps the biscuits maintain their shape during baking.
Bake
Remove the biscuits from the freezer and place them directly into the preheated oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top.
Serve
Remove the biscuits from the oven and serve them warm. Enjoy!
Notes
Grating Butter
Ensure the butter is fully frozen for optimal grating and incorporation into the dough.
Buttermilk Substitution
In place of buttermilk, you can use a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before adding to the dough.
Storing Biscuits
These biscuits are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.
Flavor Variations
Feel free to experiment by adding herbs or spices to the dough for a different flavor profile.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheating your oven ensures that the biscuits will bake evenly and helps achieve that desirable golden brown color.
Combining Dry Ingredients
Whisking together the flour and other dry ingredients properly helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasonings, ensuring consistent flavor and texture.
Incorporating Butter
Using a box grater to incorporate frozen butter allows for small, uniform pieces, which creates flakiness in the biscuits as the butter melts during baking.
Adding Buttermilk
Pouring buttermilk into the mixture and stirring gently helps to keep the dough light and tender. Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits.
Kneading the Dough
Gently kneading the dough helps bring it together without overworking the gluten, which could toughen the biscuits.
Cutting Biscuits
Using a sharp knife or biscuit cutter to shape the biscuits ensures clean edges, allowing them to rise properly while baking.
Freezing Briefly
Chilling the cut biscuits before baking helps them maintain their shape and results in a better rise during the baking process.
Baking the Biscuits
Baking at a high temperature helps achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside light and fluffy.
FAQ
Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
While you can use pre-grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated cheese will provide a better flavor and texture in the biscuits.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the biscuit dough prior to baking. Just shape the biscuits, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then store them in an airtight container.
How should I store leftover biscuits?
Leftover biscuits can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can reheat them in the oven for freshness.
Can I add other ingredients to the biscuits?
Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs, garlic powder, or other cheeses to customize the flavor to your liking.
Conclusion
These Parmesan Black Pepper Biscuits are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a perfect blend of savory cheese and a hint of spice. Their flaky texture and rich flavor make them suitable as an appetizer, side dish, or even a snack on their own. With their golden crust and tender inside, these biscuits are sure to impress any guest or family member. Enjoy them warm for the best experience!
Herbed Cheddar Biscuits
Transform your biscuits by adding shredded sharp cheddar cheese and a mix of fresh herbs like chives, rosemary, or thyme. This combination introduces new flavors and a delightful aroma to your baked goods.
Garlic and Herb Parmesan Biscuits
Incorporate minced garlic into your biscuit dough for an added kick. Combine it with Italian herbs such as oregano and basil to create a scrumptious garlic and herb variant of the original recipe.
Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Biscuits
For those who enjoy some heat, mix in chopped jalapeños and shredded cheddar cheese. This combination adds a spicy twist that pairs perfectly with soups and stews.
Sweet Maple Bacon Biscuits
For a sweet and savory treat, fold in crispy bacon bits and a drizzle of maple syrup into the dough. The combination of flavors creates a unique breakfast or brunch option.
Olive and Feta Biscuits
Add finely chopped olives and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired biscuit. This combination works wonderfully as an appetizer served with a side of olive oil for dipping.
