Bay Cheddar Biscuit Recipe: There’s something magical about biting into a warm, golden, cheesy biscuit fresh out of the oven. The outside is perfectly crisp, the inside fluffy and rich with buttery, herby goodness. That, my friend, is the power of a Bay Cheddar Biscuit. Whether you’re hosting a Sunday brunch, looking for the perfect side for your soup, or just craving a cheesy snack, this recipe will become your new go-to.
Bay Cheddar Biscuits are essentially a savory dream come true. Inspired by the popular biscuits at Red Lobster but made better at home, these biscuits combine sharp cheddar cheese, Old Bay seasoning, and fresh herbs for a flavor that’s both nostalgic and irresistible. They’re quick to make (yes, under 30 minutes), and you don’t need to be a baking expert to master them. Just a little love, the right ingredients, and you’re good to go.
These biscuits are especially great because they check all the boxes: they’re flaky, cheesy, buttery, herby, and they go with just about anything. Oh, and let’s not forget that garlicky melted butter brushed on top – that’s what takes them over the top.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Bay Cheddar Biscuits that melt in your mouth and burst with flavor, you’ll need a few staple ingredients. Don’t worry – most of these are probably already sitting in your kitchen.
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – the base of your biscuit dough
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – for lift and fluffiness
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – helps with browning and rise
- 1 teaspoon salt – enhances flavor
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning – the star spice
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed) – for that flaky texture
- 1 cup cold buttermilk – gives the dough tenderness and tang
Add-Ins:
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded) – fresh is best
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped) – adds color and freshness
For the Garlic Butter Topping:
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
These ingredients come together to create the perfect harmony of cheesy, savory, buttery flavor with that classic Old Bay kick.
Why These Ingredients Matter
Every single ingredient in this recipe plays a critical role. You might think biscuits are just “flour and cheese,” but the difference between average and amazing lies in the details.
The flour forms the structure, but using the right ratio of baking powder and baking soda gives the biscuit that iconic rise and crumb. Old Bay seasoning is the real MVP here — its blend of paprika, celery salt, mustard, and more adds a warm, complex flavor that elevates the whole biscuit.
Cold butter is non-negotiable. When those butter chunks melt in the oven, they release steam, which creates layers and flakiness. That’s biscuit magic 101.
And then there’s the sharp cheddar – don’t settle for pre-shredded. It’s coated in anti-caking agents that can mess with the texture. Shred your own and enjoy the gooey, flavorful result. The fresh parsley brings a pop of color and balances all that richness.
Let’s not forget the garlic butter topping. It’s brushed on while the biscuits are hot, seeping into every crack and making the tops shiny, flavorful, and incredibly mouthwatering. It’s like a final love letter to your taste buds.
Essential Kitchen Tools
You don’t need fancy gear, but having the right tools will make things smoother. Here’s what you’ll want:
- Mixing bowls – one large, one medium
- Pastry cutter or fork – for cutting in the butter
- Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy matters in baking
- Grater – for shredding that cheddar
- Baking sheet – lined with parchment or a silicone mat
- Pastry brush – to slather on that butter topping
- Ice cream scoop (optional) – for uniform biscuit sizes
Having these on hand will help make the process efficient and more enjoyable – less mess, more biscuit joy.
How to Choose the Right Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar is the soul of this recipe. But with so many types, how do you choose?
- Sharp cheddar is your best bet – it has a bold, tangy flavor that stands out.
- Mild cheddar melts well but may get lost behind the Old Bay and garlic.
- Extra sharp cheddar brings a punchier flavor but can be slightly crumbly.
- White vs. yellow cheddar? Either works. White is often less processed and slightly more natural-tasting, but yellow adds that beautiful golden hue.
For best results, grate it yourself from a block. Pre-shredded cheese has additives that can mess with the melt and overall biscuit texture.
Want to go next level? Try mixing in a touch of smoked cheddar for depth, or pepper jack if you’re craving a spicy kick.
Tips Before You Start Baking
Before diving into mixing and baking, a few smart moves can make all the difference. Baking, unlike cooking, is part science, part art—and being prepared makes it both easier and more enjoyable.
First things first, preheat your oven. This is crucial. You want that oven hot and ready when your biscuits hit the tray. A consistent 425°F (220°C) ensures the biscuits rise properly and develop that crispy golden crust without overbaking inside.
Next up, prep your ingredients ahead of time. This means measuring your flour, cubing your butter, shredding your cheese, and chopping your herbs before you start mixing. This “mise en place” style of baking avoids rushing and helps you focus on technique.
When it comes to mixing, less is more. Overmixing dough is one of the top causes of tough, dense biscuits. You want everything to just come together—crumbly, shaggy dough is perfect. It doesn’t have to look smooth!
Also, don’t skip chilling your ingredients. Cold butter and cold buttermilk are essential. If your butter starts melting before it hits the oven, you’ll miss out on those flaky pockets that make biscuits irresistible. If you’re working in a warm kitchen, pop your dough in the fridge for 10 minutes before baking.
And lastly, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. It prevents sticking and gives you evenly browned bottoms without burning.
Think of these steps as setting the stage for biscuit greatness—they might seem small, but they’re what separates “just okay” biscuits from chef’s kiss biscuits.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bay Cheddar Biscuits
Now that everything is in place, let’s get to the heart of it: baking the biscuits. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll have a batch of golden, cheesy perfection in no time.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
Measure out all your ingredients. Cube your cold butter, shred your cheddar cheese, chop your parsley, and make sure your buttermilk is chilled. This makes the next steps flow like butter.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
This base creates the flavor foundation. Mixing the dry ingredients thoroughly ensures even distribution, which means every bite has that signature taste.
Step 3: Add Butter and Combine
Now add the ½ cup cold, cubed butter into the dry mix. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs—think small pea-sized bits.
This is where the magic starts. These butter chunks will melt in the oven and steam up the dough, creating those signature flaky layers.
Step 4: Stir in Cheddar and Herbs
Time to amp up the flavor. Stir in:
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Use a spoon or your hands to mix them into the dough evenly. The cheddar adds richness and those gooey melted pockets, while the herbs bring a fresh contrast.
Step 5: Add Buttermilk and Form Dough
Pour in 1 cup cold buttermilk and gently stir just until the dough comes together. Don’t overmix!
The dough will look shaggy and slightly sticky—that’s perfect. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon more buttermilk. If it’s too wet, sprinkle a little flour. Aim for a soft dough that holds its shape when scooped or shaped.
Step 6: Shape the Biscuits
You have two options here:
- Drop biscuits: Use a large spoon or ice cream scoop to drop mounds of dough onto the baking sheet (about 2 inches apart).
- Cut biscuits: Lightly flour a surface, pat dough to ¾-inch thickness, and use a biscuit cutter to shape rounds.
Either method works. Drop biscuits are quicker and rustic; cut biscuits look more uniform and bakery-style.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Slide the tray into the preheated oven and bake for 13–16 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bottoms lightly crisp.
Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes—every oven’s a little different.
When they’re done, transfer them to a wire rack and get ready for the grand finale…
Step 8: Brush with Butter Topping
While the biscuits are still hot, mix together:
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Brush generously over each biscuit. The butter soaks in, adding flavor, sheen, and that iconic garlicky finish. You can even drizzle extra on top if you’re feeling indulgent.
Boom. You’ve got warm, cheesy, garlicky Bay Cheddar Biscuits ready to devour.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even the best bakers hit a few bumps. Here’s how to dodge the most common biscuit fails:
1. Overmixing the Dough
This is the top culprit behind tough biscuits. Mix only until everything is just combined. A little flour showing is fine.
2. Warm Butter
Butter should be cold—always. If it melts before baking, you’ll get dense, flat biscuits instead of flaky layers.
3. Too Much Flour
It’s tempting to add flour if your dough feels sticky, but resist the urge! Too much makes dry, crumbly biscuits.
4. Not Preheating the Oven
Cold oven = poor rise. Get that oven blazing hot before the biscuits go in.
5. Skipping the Butter Topping
This isn’t optional. It’s what gives the biscuit its signature flavor and glossy look. That garlicky finish is the cherry on top.
Knowing these pitfalls can mean the difference between “meh” and “wow” when it comes to biscuit results.
Flavor Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic Bay Cheddar Biscuit, why stop there? One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. A few tweaks can take your biscuits in totally new—and delicious—directions. Think of this as your biscuit flavor playground.
1. Jalapeño Cheddar Biscuits
Craving heat? Add 1 finely chopped jalapeño (seeds removed if you want less spice) to the dough. The spice of the pepper balances perfectly with the richness of the cheddar and the warm spices of the Old Bay.
2. Garlic & Herb Biscuits
Double down on herbs by adding 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Mix it into the dough for a Mediterranean flair. Pair with garlic butter for maximum herb flavor.
3. Bacon Cheddar Biscuits
Who can resist bacon? Fold in ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon along with the cheese. The smoky, salty flavor adds depth and pairs insanely well with the buttery base.
4. Chive & Cream Cheese Biscuits
Swap parsley for chopped fresh chives and dot the dough with small pieces of soft cream cheese. The result? A tangy, creamy biscuit with a subtle onion note.
5. Spicy Smoked Paprika Biscuits
Want something bold? Add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry mix. It gives the biscuits a smoky depth with a little kick at the end.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. This dough is forgiving, and the possibilities are nearly endless. You can mix and match cheeses, herbs, and toppings depending on your mood or what you’ve got in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions
Let’s be honest: these biscuits are so good, they rarely make it to the plate. But if you’re looking to serve them up in style, here are some ideas to elevate your meal.
1. Serve with Soup or Stew
Bay Cheddar Biscuits are ideal for dipping! Think:
- Creamy tomato basil soup
- New England clam chowder
- Hearty beef stew
- Spicy chili
They soak up flavor while adding a rich, cheesy bite.
2. Make a Biscuit Sandwich
Slice one in half and stuff it with:
- Scrambled eggs and bacon (for breakfast)
- Fried chicken and slaw (for lunch)
- Sliced ham and mustard (for a savory snack)
Trust me, it’s a game-changer.
3. Serve with Seafood
The Old Bay seasoning pairs beautifully with seafood dishes like:
- Garlic butter shrimp
- Crab cakes
- Lobster tail
- Grilled salmon
It’s like your biscuit was meant for this meal.
4. Turn into Mini Appetizers
Make smaller biscuits and top with:
- Pimento cheese
- Smoked salmon and cream cheese
- Herb butter
They make crowd-pleasing party snacks or starters.
5. Enjoy as a Side with Any Meal
These biscuits work with everything from roast chicken to grilled vegetables. Their savory, buttery nature makes them a versatile side on any dinner table.
How to Store and Reheat
We get it—if you somehow manage not to eat the whole batch fresh from the oven, you’ll want to store them right.
Storage Tips:
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate: Keep for up to 5 days, but bring to room temp before reheating.
- Freeze: See the next section!
Reheating Methods:
Oven (Best for Crispy Edges):
- Preheat to 350°F (175°C)
- Wrap biscuits in foil and warm for 8–10 minutes
Microwave (Quickest):
- Wrap in a damp paper towel
- Heat for 20–30 seconds
Toaster Oven:
- Toast for a crisp outside and warm center
Pro tip: brush on a little melted butter before reheating to revive that fresh-baked flavor.
Can You Freeze Bay Cheddar Biscuits?
Absolutely. In fact, these biscuits freeze like a dream. Freezing is a fantastic way to enjoy homemade biscuits any day of the week without starting from scratch.
To Freeze Unbaked Biscuits:
- Prepare the dough as usual.
- Scoop or shape your biscuits.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze until solid (about 1–2 hours).
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Store for up to 3 months.
When ready to bake:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
- Bake from frozen (no thawing needed) for 16–18 minutes
To Freeze Baked Biscuits:
- Let biscuits cool completely.
- Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then foil.
- Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
To reheat: pop into a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes or microwave for 30–40 seconds.
Freezing lets you enjoy cheesy, garlicky biscuit goodness on-demand, even on busy mornings or lazy evenings.
Nutritional Information
Let’s break down the basics per one average-sized Bay Cheddar Biscuit (based on a batch of 10):
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220–250 kcal |
| Total Fat | 13g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Fiber | 1g |
These numbers vary based on your cheese choice, add-ins, and portion size. While these biscuits aren’t diet food, they are comfort food—and that’s important, too.
FAQs about Bay Cheddar Biscuit Recipe
1. Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, but it’s best to add a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes. This mimics the tang and acidity of buttermilk.
2. What can I use instead of Old Bay seasoning?
You can create a quick DIY version with celery salt, paprika, cayenne, black pepper, and mustard powder. Or use Cajun or Creole seasoning for a spicier twist.
3. Can I make these biscuits gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind the texture might change slightly, so don’t overmix.
4. Why are my biscuits not rising properly?
Make sure your baking powder is fresh, and don’t twist your biscuit cutter if using one—it can seal the edges and prevent a good rise.
5. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the dough, scoop onto a tray, and refrigerate (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking. Or freeze and bake as needed.
Final Thoughts
Bay Cheddar Biscuits are more than just a side dish—they’re a whole vibe. They bring comfort, flavor, and that homemade touch we all crave. Whether you’re a seasoned home baker or a biscuit rookie, this recipe has your back. It’s quick, customizable, and straight-up addictive.
The combination of sharp cheddar, warm spices, cold butter, and garlicky topping creates the ultimate savory treat that hits all the right notes. Make them once, and they’ll be on repeat in your kitchen forever.
So what are you waiting for? Fire up the oven, grab that cheddar, and bake your way to biscuit bliss.
