Cheese biscuits

Cheese Biscuits – A Savory Treat for All Ages

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 20 biscuits

Cheese biscuits are a perfect choice for a savory appetizer, a snack between meals, or even to be enjoyed alongside a cup of tea. This simple and quick recipe combines the enticing flavors of cheese with well-chosen spices, offering a crispy and delicious result. Let’s dive into the preparation process!

A Brief History
Savory biscuits have a long tradition in kitchens around the world. From crackers to cheese biscuits, these delights are often served on special occasions or simply as an everyday snack. Each country has its own variant, but the combination of cheese with spices remains constant and beloved.

Ingredients
- 1 egg (about 60 g)
- 100 g grated cheese (choose a mature cheese for an intense flavor)
- 100 g soft butter (leave at room temperature)
- 150 g flour (you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds (these add a distinct flavor note)
- 1 pinch of pepper
- 1 pinch of salt (adjustable to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Dough
Start by cracking the egg into a medium-sized bowl. Use a whisk or a fork to beat it well. Add the soft butter at room temperature and mix until the composition becomes smooth and creamy. It’s essential that the butter is soft, as it will help achieve a finer texture for the biscuits.

2. Seasoning the Dough
Now, add the spices: sweet paprika, cumin seeds, pepper, and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors. The cumin seeds add a slightly spicy taste and a special aroma, so don’t skip them!

3. Incorporating the Cheese
Next, add the grated cheese. Choose a mature cheese, as it will provide an extra burst of flavor. Mix well, ensuring that the cheese is evenly incorporated into the mixture.

4. Forming the Dough
Now, gradually add the flour. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix. You will obtain a slightly soft dough, but not too sticky. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it!

5. Chilling the Dough
Once you have obtained the dough, place it in a clean plastic bag and refrigerate for one hour. This step is crucial as it helps solidify the butter and form a crispier texture after baking.

6. Shaping the Biscuits
After the dough has chilled, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and roll out the dough to a thickness of about 4-5 mm. Use a biscuit cutter (you can choose classic shapes or even fun shapes) to cut out the biscuits.

7. Baking the Biscuits
Place the cut biscuits on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them to allow for expansion. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius and bake the biscuits for 15-20 minutes, until they turn golden and crispy. You will smell the enticing aroma of cheese throughout the house!

8. Cooling and Serving
Once the biscuits are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a cooling rack. They will be delicious both warm and at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions
Cheese biscuits are perfect to be served alongside a yogurt dip with herbs or a spicy sauce. You can also pair them with a refreshing drink, such as lemonade or iced tea, as well as with a dry white wine that will highlight the intense flavors of the cheese.

Possible Variations
To experiment, you can add fresh dill or chopped parsley to the dough. You can also substitute the cheese with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor. If you prefer spicy biscuits, add a little ground chili pepper to the mixture.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any type of cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella or cheddar.

2. How can I store the biscuits?
Store the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them crispy, make sure the container is well sealed.

3. Is it possible to freeze the biscuits?
Yes, unbaked biscuits can be frozen. You can freeze them after cutting, and when you want to bake them, simply take them out of the freezer and bake them directly.

Nutritional Benefits
Cheese biscuits are a good source of protein and calcium due to the cheese content. The butter adds healthy fats, but it’s important to consume the biscuits in moderation, considering their caloric content. They are an excellent choice to satisfy a savory craving without sacrificing flavor.

In conclusion, cheese biscuits are a versatile, delicious, and easy-to-make choice, perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them at a party, during a gathering with friends, or simply as a snack at home, these biscuits are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and start your culinary adventure! Enjoy!