The aroma of warm, buttery biscuits takes me back to cherished mornings spent in the kitchen with family. These Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are a delightful twist on traditional breakfast fare, combining tender, flaky layers with savory ham and sharp cheddar. Not only are they a fantastic way to use up leftover holiday ham, but their easy preparation makes them a go-to for anyone looking to elevate their brunch game without the fuss. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up these crowd-pleasers that promise to impress even the most discerning palates at your table. Ready to discover how to create these irresistible bites? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!
Why are these biscuits a must-try?
Irresistible flavor: The combination of rich, sharp cheddar and savory ham creates a mouthwatering taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Quick & easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these biscuits are perfect for a hassle-free brunch or breakfast.
Versatile options: Feel free to swap out the ham for crispy bacon or even make them fully vegetarian by leaving out the meat altogether—adapt to your taste!
Perfect for leftovers: Transform that leftover holiday ham into a scrumptious dish everyone will love, making waste a thing of the past.
Crowd-pleasing appeal: Each bite is a delightful experience with flaky layers, cheesy goodness, and a buttery crust that everyone will enjoy. For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out my Garlic Butter Shrimp and Spinach Cottage Cheese recipes!
Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits Ingredients
• Dive into the delightful details below!
For the Biscuit Dough
- Salted Butter – Essential for creating that rich and buttery crust.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the perfect structure for fluffy biscuits.
- Baking Powder – A vital leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- Granulated Sugar – Just a hint of sweetness that balances savory flavors.
- Granulated Garlic – Infuses biscuits with a delicious aromatic hint.
- Salt – Enhances flavors and brings all the ingredients together.
For the Filling
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds a rich, creamy texture and bold flavor; cubed for optimal melting.
- Diced Ham – The star ingredient for protein and a savory punch; perfect for using up leftovers!
- Diced Chives – Provides a fresh, mild onion taste, brightening up each bite.
For Moisture
- Buttermilk – Essential for moistening the dough, contributing to a tender crumb.
Now that you have everything you need, let’s move on to crafting these delightful Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits that are sure to impress!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). While it warms, take a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or a 9×9 baking pan and place a stick of salted butter inside to melt. This should take about 5 minutes, allowing the butter to turn golden and bubbly, providing the perfect base for your Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, granulated garlic, and salt until evenly combined. This mixture will serve as the foundation for your biscuits, so ensure no lumps remain. The goal is a light, airy blend that sets the stage for the delicious flavors to follow.
Step 3: Add the Savory Ingredients
Now, gently fold in the diced ham, cubed sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh chopped chives into your dry mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are just coated with flour, creating an irresistible partnership of flavors that will make these Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits stand out at your brunch table.
Step 4: Incorporate the Buttermilk
Gradually pour in the buttermilk, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough; you want to keep it tender and fluffy. The buttermilk should moisten the mixture without turning it overly sticky. This step is crucial to achieving the perfect biscuit texture that melts in your mouth.
Step 5: Spoon the Dough into the Pan
Once your dough is ready, carefully spoon it over the melted butter in your prepared skillet or baking pan. Press down gently on a few areas to allow the butter to seep into the dough, enhancing the gold and crispy texture of your Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits.
Step 6: Cut and Shape the Biscuits
Using a pastry cutter or a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 to 10 pieces. Ensure that your cuts are deep enough to form distinct biscuit shapes. This not only helps with cooking evenly but also allows those mouthwatering layers to develop while baking, resulting in a flaky finish.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Place the skillet or pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes. You’ll know your Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are ready when they turn golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Enjoy the tantalizing aromas filling your kitchen during this time!
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove your biscuits from the oven and let them cool for 5 to 10 minutes. This cooling period will help them set properly. Serve warm, and watch as everyone around the table indulges in these decadently flavorful Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits that are sure to be a hit!
What to Serve with Decadent Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits
These delightful biscuits can be paired beautifully with various sides and beverages, creating a cozy and satisfying meal experience.
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Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy, perfectly seasoned eggs add a protein-packed, creamy element that complements the richness of the biscuits.
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Fresh Salad: A vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the buttery richness.
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Homemade Gravy: A rich sausage or mushroom gravy poured over the biscuits takes comfort food to a whole new level, creating a savory delight.
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Fruit Compote: Sweet-tart fruit compote made from berries or peaches brings a bright pop of flavor, balancing the savory aspects of the biscuits perfectly.
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Honey or Jam: A drizzle of honey or a dollop of fruit jam offers a sweet touch that enhances the buttery flavor, making each bite an explosion of taste.
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Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea can complete your brunch, offering a comforting companion that balances the meal’s richness and flavors.
Indulging in these delicious combinations will transform your brunch table into a heartwarming gathering that everyone will savor!
Tips for the Best Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits
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Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh baking powder to ensure your biscuits rise beautifully. Stale baking soda can lead to dense biscuits.
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Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is hot and bubbly when you spoon the dough on top. This helps create that signature buttery crust.
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Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the dough when combining buttermilk and dry ingredients. This keeps the biscuits tender, preventing them from becoming tough.
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Cheese Choice: Opt for block cheese over pre-grated for the best melting experience. Grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that impact texture.
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Uniform Size: Cut the dough into equal pieces for even baking. This ensures every biscuit is perfectly cooked and golden, delivering that delightful experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are perfect for make-ahead meal planning! You can mix the dry ingredients and prepare the filling (ham, cheese, and chives) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful biscuits, combine the prepped dry and wet ingredients, spoon the dough over the melted butter, and bake them fresh for about 20-30 minutes. For longer storage, you can bake the biscuits, let them cool completely, and freeze them for up to 3 months—then simply reheat in a toaster oven for that fresh taste, ensuring they remain just as delicious!
Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these biscuits in delightful ways!
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Bacon Love: Substitute ham with crispy bacon for a smoky, savory twist. The flavors meld beautifully, adding a satisfying crunch with each bite.
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Sausage Surprise: Swap in cooked sausage for a hearty, protein-packed biscuit. Perfect for breakfast lovers seeking a flavorful start to their day.
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Vegetarian Delight: Omit the meat for a cheesy garlic chive biscuit. This comforting option is just as satisfying, bursting with rich cheesy goodness.
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Cheese Options: Experiment with cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor profile. Each cheese brings its unique character!
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. This zesty addition elevates the flavor while keeping the comforting essence intact.
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Herbaceous Twist: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be added for an aromatic boost. These herbs infuse each bite with a fragrant touch that’ll delight your senses.
Don’t forget to pair these variations with other fabulous dishes like my Garlic Butter Shrimp or add a side of Spinach Cottage Cheese for a fulfilling brunch experience!
Storage Tips for Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits
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Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their flaky texture and buttery flavor.
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Fridge: If you prefer to keep the biscuits a little longer, they can be refrigerated for up to 1 week in a sealed container. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked biscuits in a plastic freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they stay moist and warm.
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Reheating: To reheat individual biscuits, place them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or until warmed through, but use the oven for the best texture.
Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits Recipe FAQs
How should I select my ham?
Absolutely! When choosing ham for your biscuits, look for freshly diced or sliced ham that is firm and free of dark spots. If you’re using leftover holiday ham, ensure it’s fresh and well-stored. For best results, use ham that’s been cooked and has a delightful flavor profile—smoked ham is often a crowd favorite!
What’s the best way to store the biscuits?
You can store your Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 1 week. To reheat, pop them in the oven to bring back that perfect flakiness.
Can I freeze the biscuits?
The more the merrier! You can freeze cooked biscuits for up to 3 months. First, let them cool completely, then place them in a plastic freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method will keep them moist and delicious.
What if my biscuits aren’t rising?
If your Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits aren’t rising as expected, check the freshness of your baking powder. It should bubble vigorously when mixed with wet ingredients. Also, be careful not to overwork the dough while combining; overmixing can lead to dense biscuits. Keeping your butter hot, but not burning, will help achieve that beautiful lift you want!
Are these biscuits pet-friendly?
While the ingredients are safe for most pets, keep in mind that ham can be high in sodium and fat. If you want to treat your furry friend, consider a small piece without any seasoning. It’s always best to consult your veterinarian for any dietary concerns.
Can I make adjustments for dietary preferences?
Very! Feel free to swap the ham for cooked bacon, sausage, or even make them vegetarian by omitting the meat altogether. You can also opt for a variety of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or Gruyère, to cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Enjoy experimenting!
Irresistible Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits for Brunch Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and melt a stick of salted butter in a skillet.
- Combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, granulated garlic, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Gently fold in diced ham, cubed sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh chopped chives.
- Gradually add buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
- Spoon the dough over the melted butter in your prepared skillet or baking pan.
- Cut the dough into 8 to 10 pieces using a pastry cutter or sharp knife.
- Bake for 20 to 30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving warm.
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