Small Batch Bacon Cheddar Buttermilk Biscuits
Fluffy buttermilk biscuits packed with crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese create the perfect savory breakfast or side dish. Made with self-rising flour and Crisco shortening, these biscuits have a tender crumb and golden exterior. The addition of cayenne pepper adds a subtle heat that complements the smoky bacon and tangy cheese. Perfect for weekend brunches or alongside soups and stews, this small batch recipe yields 8 generous biscuits without leftovers.
Ingredients
- 2 cups self-rising flourall-purpose flour + 2 tsp baking powder + 1/2 tsp salt1:1gluten-freeadds gluten
use same amount
- ⅓ cup Crisco shorteningcold butter1:1dairyadds dairy
cut into small pieces
- 8 slices bacon, cooked & chopped, about 3/4 cup
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
Instructions
- 1
Adjust oven rack to lower-middle position and preheat oven to 425°F
- 2
Grease a 10-inch skillet
- 3
Stir together flour and shortening in medium bowl with fork
- 4
Add bacon, cheese, and pepper and stir
- 5
Add buttermilk and stir with fork until dough forms
- 6
Dump dough onto floured surface and press into rectangle that is 1 and 1/2-inch thick
- 7
Cut 8 biscuits out and place on prepared skillet
- 8
Bake 20 to 22 minutes or until golden brown
- 9
Serve immediately
Tips
Cook bacon until crispy and drain well on paper towels before chopping to prevent soggy biscuits
Don't overwork the dough when pressing into rectangle - gentle handling keeps biscuits tender
Use a sharp knife or biscuit cutter and press straight down without twisting for maximum rise
Good to Know
Store covered at room temperature for 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months
Can prepare dough and cut biscuits up to 2 hours ahead, cover and refrigerate
Serve warm with butter, honey, or jam
Common Mistakes
Don't overmix the dough to avoid tough biscuits
Ensure bacon is fully drained to prevent soggy bottoms
Place biscuits close together in skillet for soft sides
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
cut into small pieces
Gluten-Free Swaps
use same amount
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make these without bacon?
Yes, omit the bacon for plain cheddar biscuits or substitute with cooked ham or sausage for different flavor profiles.
What if I don't have buttermilk?
Mix 3/4 cup regular milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes before using.
How long do these keep?
Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in 350°F oven for best texture.