If you’re on the hunt for a recipe that’s equal parts comforting and indulgent, look no further than these Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a midday snack, these biscuits are buttery, cheesy, and packed with savory ham in every bite. The secret to their irresistible texture? The dough literally “swims” in melted butter as it bakes, resulting in crispy edges and an ultra-soft, fluffy center. Trust me—once you try them, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
What Makes Butter Swim Biscuits So Special?
Butter Swim Biscuits are a Southern-inspired treat that takes the humble biscuit to the next level. Unlike traditional biscuits that require cutting in cold butter or rolling out dough, this recipe is far simpler. The dough is mixed together in one bowl, poured into melted butter, and baked to golden perfection. The butter not only adds richness but also creates the signature crispy edges that make these biscuits so irresistible.
What sets this version apart is the addition of diced ham and shredded cheddar cheese. These ingredients bring a savory punch and make the biscuits hearty enough to stand on their own as a meal or snack. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or reheating leftovers, each bite is packed with flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these delightful biscuits:
- All-purpose flour (2½ cups): The base of the dough, providing structure.
- Granulated sugar (1 tbsp): A touch of sweetness balances the savory flavors.
- Baking powder (1 tbsp): Helps the biscuits rise and achieve their fluffy texture.
- Salt (1½ tsp): Enhances the overall flavor.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully into the dough for cheesy goodness. A cheese blend works too!
- Diced cooked ham (1 cup): Adds protein and a smoky, savory element.
- Cold buttermilk (1¾ cups): Keeps the dough moist and tender.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup): Melted and poured into the baking dish for that signature “swim” effect.
Step-by-Step Directions
Ready to dive into buttery biscuit heaven? Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 450°F (230°C). While it heats up, melt your butter and pour it into a 9×9-inch baking dish. This will be the bed for your biscuit dough. - Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents. - Add Ham and Cheese
Toss in the shredded cheddar cheese and diced ham. Stir gently to combine—this is where all that savory magic happens! - Incorporate Buttermilk
Pour the cold buttermilk into the bowl and stir until just combined. The dough will be thick and sticky, so don’t worry if it seems a little messy. - Transfer to Baking Dish
Scoop the dough into your butter-filled baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly into the corners. - Cut Into Squares
Using a knife, pre-cut the dough into 9 squares (a simple 3×3 grid). This step helps ensure even baking and makes serving easier later. - Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. The tops should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. - Cool and Serve
Let the biscuits cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, with every bite showcasing crispy edges and gooey, cheesy centers.
Tips for Success
- Use Cold Buttermilk: Cold ingredients help maintain the dough’s texture and prevent over-spreading during baking.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to dense biscuits—stir until just combined for light, fluffy results.
- Get Creative: Add green onions, jalapeños, or swap out cheddar for another cheese like pepper jack or gouda for a fun twist.
- Reheat Like a Pro: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or toaster oven to restore their crispy edges.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are more than just a treat—they’re an experience. The buttery base creates a rich foundation that pairs perfectly with the salty ham and melty cheese. Whether you’re serving them alongside scrambled eggs for breakfast or enjoying them as a standalone snack, they’re guaranteed to hit the spot.
And let’s not forget how easy they are to make! No rolling pins or biscuit cutters are required—just mix, pour, and bake. It’s comfort food at its finest, with minimal effort involved.
Nutrition Information
Curious about what’s inside each biscuit? Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Fat: 19 g
- Fiber: 1 g
While these biscuits are definitely indulgent, they’re also packed with protein from the ham and cheese—so you can feel good about enjoying them as part of a balanced meal.
Final Thoughts
Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are one of those recipes that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re making them for a weekend brunch or prepping ahead for quick weekday breakfasts, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles around the table.
So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy biscuits like you’ve never had before—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and bursting with flavor in every bite!
PrintHam and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits
These Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are ultra-soft, rich, and full of flavor. The dough ‘swims’ in butter as it bakes, creating crispy edges and a moist, fluffy center. With bits of ham and melty cheese, these biscuits are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 35–40 minutes
- Yield: 9 biscuits
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2½ cups (312 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1½ tsp salt
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend)
- 1 cup (150 g) diced cooked ham
- 1¾ cups (420 ml) cold buttermilk
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Pour the melted butter into a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add shredded cheese and diced ham. Mix to combine.
5. Pour in the cold buttermilk and stir gently until just combined.
6. Transfer the dough into the buttered baking dish and spread it evenly.
7. Score the dough into 9 squares using a knife.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and cooked through.
9. Cool slightly and serve warm.
Notes
Use cold buttermilk and avoid overmixing for best texture.
Add-ins like green onions or jalapeños can boost flavor.
Store in airtight container up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 biscuit
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Leave a Comment