Weight Watchers Cheddar Biscuits Recipe

Delight in the comforting taste of homemade Cheddar Biscuits that are not only delicious but also align perfectly with your Weight Watchers journey. These biscuits are fluffy, cheesy, and incredibly easy to prepare. Ideal as a side dish or a snack, this recipe has been optimized to keep it low in SmartPoints, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12 biscuits
SmartPoints: 3 per biscuit (on Blue and Purple plans; 4 on Green)

Ingredients

For these Weight Watchers Cheddar Biscuits, you will need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) skim milk

Optional Topping:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for flavor enhancement)

Kitchen Tools Needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper (optional)
  • Whisk
  • Pastry cutter or fork
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving the desired fluffiness and golden color of the biscuits.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the biscuits from sticking. This will also aid in easy cleanup.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. This ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 4: Cut in the Butter

  1. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or fork, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is essential for creating a flaky texture in the biscuits.

Step 5: Add Cheese

  1. Gently fold in the shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese, ensuring that the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture. The cheese will add flavor and moisture to the biscuits.

Step 6: Mix in the Milk

  1. Gradually add the skim milk to the dry mixture, stirring gently with a rubber spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense biscuits. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Step 7: Shape the Biscuits

  1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick rectangle.
  2. Using a biscuit cutter or a glass, cut out rounds from the dough. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each biscuit.

Step 8: Bake the Biscuits

  1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top. The high heat helps the biscuits rise nicely.

Step 9: Prepare the Optional Topping

  1. While the biscuits are baking, if desired, melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small bowl. You can mix in garlic powder for added flavor.

Step 10: Brush the Biscuits

  1. Once the biscuits are done baking, remove them from the oven and brush the tops with the melted butter. This adds a lovely flavor and helps keep the biscuits moist.

Step 11: Cool and Serve

  1. Allow the biscuits to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information (per biscuit)

  • Calories: 120
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Net Carbs: 12g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Sugar: 0g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints

  • SmartPoints: 3 (Blue and Purple plans); 4 (Green plan)

Tips and Variations

  1. Flour Alternatives: For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s a 1:1 ratio substitute for best results.
  2. Cheese Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor. Just keep an eye on the fat content to maintain the SmartPoints.
  3. Herbs and Spices: Adding fresh or dried herbs such as chives, thyme, or rosemary can elevate the flavor profile. Mix in about 1-2 teaspoons of your favorite herb with the dry ingredients.
  4. Make-Ahead: These biscuits can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
  5. Storage: Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Serving Suggestions

These Cheddar Biscuits make an excellent accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside soups, salads, or main courses like grilled chicken or fish. They also make a delightful snack on their own!

Conclusion

These Weight Watchers Cheddar Biscuits are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic comfort food while keeping your points in check. With their fluffy texture and cheesy goodness, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a snack, these biscuits are versatile and easy to make. Give this recipe a try, and savor the delightful taste without the guilt!