Linda CainNeiman Marcus cheddar cheese biscuits are a true treat, with their golden crust and irresistible aroma, making them the perfect companion for a variety of dishes. They pair wonderfully with soups and stews, especially a creamy potato soup or a hearty beef stew, where the buttery biscuit texture complements the rich, savory flavors.
For a lighter touch, serve them alongside a refreshing garden salad or a kale salad with citrus vinaigrette, where the crunchiness of the greens contrasts beautifully with the soft, cheesy biscuit. Roasted chicken or grilled salmon also make excellent pairings, offering a savory balance to the biscuit’s richness.
Don’t forget spreads and dips—homemade garlic herb butter or tangy pimento cheese dip will elevate each bite, taking the biscuit experience to a whole new level of flavor. With these pairings, you’re all set for a delightful and satisfying meal.
I first encountered the celebrated Neiman Marcus cheddar cheese biscuit at the iconic Neiman Marcus restaurant in Dallas. The waitstaff presented them with the kind of grace that made you feel special. But it’s not just the ambiance that captures your heart; it’s the luscious, buttery flavor that lingers long after the meal is over.
I’ve made these biscuits countless times. They quickly became a family favorite, a go-to recipe for gatherings, and a delightful treat worthy of any brunch spread. If you’ve never tasted one, you’re in for a treat.
What is Neiman Marcus Cheddar Cheese Biscuit?
Neiman Marcus cheddar cheese biscuits are fluffy, savory baked goods packed with sharp cheddar cheese. They’re well-known for their crispy exterior and tender inside that’s bursting with flavor.
The recipe has a delightful backstory, often associated with the opulence of the department store where they originated. Rich in cheese yet easy to prepare, these biscuits satisfy both the stomach and the soul.
Why This Recipe Works
Let’s break down why this recipe is not just good, but truly exceptional.
1. Perfect Cheese Balance: These biscuits harness the sharpness of cheddar cheese, creating a flavor profile that is both sharp and rich. The cheese melds perfectly with the biscuit base, ensuring each bite is as cheesy as you desire.
2. Simple Ingredients: The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Common ingredients work together to create a gourmet experience. You may already have many of these items in your pantry.
3. Effortless Preparation: You don’t need advanced culinary skills to whip these up. The steps are straightforward and quick, making it a breeze for any home cook, regardless of experience level.
4. Versatile Pairing Options: As discussed earlier, these biscuits can accompany a wide array of dishes. Their taste complements soups, salads, and proteins alike, making them a versatile addition to your dining table.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Neiman Marcus Cheddar Cheese Biscuit
Gathering your ingredients should feel exciting, not daunting. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tablespoons of leavening powder
- 1 teaspoon of sea salt
- 1 cup of vegetable lard
- 1 cup of cultured buttermilk
- Parchment paper for lining
How To Make These?
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of creating these cheesy delights. Ready? Let’s bake!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. A hot oven ensures that the biscuits puff up nicely, creating that perfect fluffy texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This step will prevent the biscuits from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, leavening powder, sea salt, and smoked paprika. A whisk works wonders here to ensure everything is combined evenly.
Step 4: Add the Lard
Cut the vegetable lard into the dry mixture using a pastry cutter, your fingers, or a fork. You want to create a crumbly texture. It should resemble coarse crumbs and should feel slightly sandy.
Step 5: Incorporate the Cheese
Add the grated cheddar cheese to the mixture. Stir gently to avoid clumping. You want that cheese to be evenly distributed throughout the biscuit dough.
Step 6: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and Dijon mustard. Mixing the mustard into the buttermilk before combining with the dry ingredients helps integrate the flavors.
Step 7: Combine the Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix the dough; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 8: Shape the Biscuits
Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, drop the biscuit dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Aim for about 1/4 cup of dough per biscuit. Space them about 2 inches apart.
Step 9: Bake
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown. Your kitchen will start smelling heavenly—trust me!
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the biscuits from the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve them warm for the best experience.
Tips for Making the Perfect Neiman Marcus Cheddar Cheese Biscuits
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always go for fresh cheddar. Pre-grated cheese is often coated with anti-caking agents that may affect texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to dense biscuits. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
- Adjust the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a twist.
- Chill the Lard: If your lard is too warm, your biscuits might spread while baking. For best results, ensure lard is cold before mixing.
- Taste Test the Dough: Before baking, taste a small amount of the dough. Adjust the seasoning if needed!
Nutrition Information
neiman marcus cheddar cheese biscuit recipe nutrition facts
How to Store the Leftovers?
Store any leftover biscuits in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze them! Freeze individual biscuits in a freezer bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a warm oven.
Recommended Side Dishes for Neiman Marcus Cheddar Cheese Biscuits
1. Tomato Basil Soup: This classic pairing not only warms you but complements the cheesy biscuits’ richness with a light, fresh tomato flavor.
2. Spinach Salad with Strawberry Vinaigrette: The sweet and tangy dressing brings brightness that counters the heavy cheese, creating a balance in flavors.
3. Roasted Veggie Platter: Caramelized vegetables bring earthiness to the meal. Zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted with olive oil and herbs are simply divine.
4. Shrimp Scampi: The garlic, lemon, and herbs meld together perfectly. It’s a delightful contrast that will impress your guests.
Substitute Options for Ingredients
Sometimes you might find yourself missing a piece of the puzzle. Let’s see some suitable alternatives:
1. Sharp Cheddar: Use Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a milder flavor. Both will add texture without overpowering.
2. Vegetable Lard: Replace with butter or coconut oil. The flavor profile will change slightly, but it will maintain the richness.
3. Cultured Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, combine regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it rest for a few minutes.
4. All-Purpose Flour: Substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Keep in mind, this will change the texture a bit, making it denser.
Neiman Marcus Cheddar Cheese Biscuit Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 cup of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tablespoons of leavening powder
- 1 teaspoon of sea salt
- 1 cup of vegetable lard
- 1 cup of cultured buttermilk
- Parchment paper for lining
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. A hot oven ensures that the biscuits puff up nicely, creating that perfect fluffy texture.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This step will prevent the biscuits from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, leavening powder, sea salt, and smoked paprika. A whisk works wonders here to ensure everything is combined evenly.
- Cut the vegetable lard into the dry mixture using a pastry cutter, your fingers, or a fork. You want to create a crumbly texture. It should resemble coarse crumbs and should feel slightly sandy.
- Add the grated cheddar cheese to the mixture. Stir gently to avoid clumping. You want that cheese to be evenly distributed throughout the biscuit dough.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and Dijon mustard. Mixing the mustard into the buttermilk before combining with the dry ingredients helps integrate the flavors.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix the dough; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
- Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, drop the biscuit dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Aim for about 1/4 cup of dough per biscuit. Space them about 2 inches apart.
- Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown. Your kitchen will start smelling heavenly—trust me!
- Once baked, remove the biscuits from the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve them warm for the best experience.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always go for fresh cheddar. Pre-grated cheese is often coated with anti-caking agents that may affect texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to dense biscuits. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
- Adjust the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a twist.
- Chill the Lard: If your lard is too warm, your biscuits might spread while baking. For best results, ensure lard is cold before mixing.
- Taste Test the Dough: Before baking, taste a small amount of the dough. Adjust the seasoning if needed!
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
In closing, Neiman Marcus cheddar cheese biscuits are more than just a side dish; they are a statement in flavor and comfort. They elevate any meal with their splendid balance of cheese and buttery goodness.
Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or as a perfect pairing with a hearty soup or salad, these biscuits promise to create memories in every bite.
So roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, and dive into this delightful baking adventure. Who knew that something so simple could bring so much joy to the table? Enjoy!
