Savory Chive & Cheddar Biscuits

These savory biscuits are quite hearty with the addition of whole wheat flour, rich in fiber and protective phytochemicals that support digestive health and reduce cancer risk. The inclusion of sharp cheddar cheese, a source of calcium and protein, and fresh chives, which belong to the allium family known for their cancer-fighting sulfur compounds, brings these biscuits to another level. Warm, soft, and flavorful, they make a nourishing accompaniment that’s just as remarkable as any main dish. A versatile recipe, these biscuits can be made plain or even sweet, swapping the cheddar and chives for a fruit and spice combo, such as blueberries and cinnamon or orange and chai.

Recipe By: Melanya Kushla, MS, RD, CHES at Taste & Thrive
Yield: 4 servings
Serving Size: 1 biscuit

Ingredients

½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon kosher or sea salt
4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, cold, cut into cubes
2 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated or shredded
⅓ cup cold, reduced-fat buttermilk

Utensils

Medium mixing bowl
Wooden spoon
Cheese grater
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Chef's knife
Small baking sheet

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine both of the flours, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add the butter and mix to coat in the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry blender to blend the butter into the flour until the butter pieces are about the size of a pea.
Next, add the cheese and chives, gently mixing to coat them in flour as well.
Pour in the buttermilk and use a wooden spoon to combine, then transition to using your hands again to bring the mixture together into a loose ball. Do not overwork the dough; it's alright if there are some inconsistencies.
Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and shape it into a 1-inch-thick round.
Use a biscuit cutter or up-side-down glass to cut out the biscuits, then place them onto the prepared sheet pan. (Alternatively, you can divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and simply drop onto the sheet pan for a more rustic look).
Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes.
Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy!

Notes

Store in an air-tight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use ⅓ cup of any plain milk with 1 teaspoon lemon juice mixed in as a substitute.
These biscuits can be made entirely with white flour, though the nutritional benefits will be improved with a less refined flour, such as white whole wheat or whole wheat pastry flour.
Experiment with other herbs for different flavor combinations, or omit entirely for plain biscuits.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

275 calories – 16g fat – 9g sat fat – 24g carbohydrates – 8g protein – 2g fiber – 320 mg sodium

Nutrient Highlights

Whole Grain Flour: Packed full of fiber to help promote healthy gut microbes to support a strong immune system and help the body maintain balanced blood sugar levels. Whole grains also promote satiety and provide polyphenols that have high antioxidant activity, helping reduce inflammation in the body.
Sea Salt: Provides essential trace minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which support cellular health and may contribute to overall balance in the body when used in small amounts.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: A good source of protein and calcium, supporting bone health and muscle strength, as well as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a compound being studied for potential anti-cancer properties.
Chives: Rich in vitamin K and sulfur compounds, which helps support bone health and provides natural anti-inflammatory benefits, similar to garlic and onions.

Savory Chive & Cheddar Biscuits