Soft and Tender Zucchini Cheddar Biscuits: The Ultimate Savory Treat

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked biscuits wafting through the kitchen. Now imagine adding a cheesy, herby twist to that warmth with garden-fresh zucchini. These soft and tender zucchini cheddar biscuits are not just a cozy comfort food—they’re also an excellent way to sneak more veggies into your baking routine.

Whether you’re an experienced home baker or simply looking to use up that overflowing supply of summer squash, this recipe brings savory satisfaction with every bite. And with the moisture of zucchini and the richness of sharp cheddar, you’ll find yourself making these again and again.

If you’re wondering whether you need to prep the zucchini in a certain way—yes, you do. Zucchini holds a lot of water. A common technique is to salt it, let it sit, then squeeze out the excess moisture. You can learn exactly how to do this from Serious Eats’ guide on draining zucchini, a kitchen essential every home cook should know.

What makes these biscuits a go-to side or snack is their nutrient value. Zucchini is low in calories but packed with fiber and antioxidants. According to Healthline’s nutritional overview of zucchini, it’s also great for digestion and heart health, making these biscuits a treat you can feel good about.

What Makes Zucchini Cheddar Biscuits Special?

Here’s why these zucchini cheddar biscuits stand out:

• Moist and fluffy texture thanks to the shredded zucchini
• Bold, cheesy flavor from sharp cheddar
• Savory depth enhanced by fresh herbs like parsley and chives
• Quick prep with a drop-biscuit style—no rolling required
• Perfect as a side dish, savory snack, or breakfast treat

Ingredient Spotlight: Understanding the Essentials

To make your biscuits exceptionally tender and flavorful, it’s important to understand what each ingredient contributes:

• Zucchini: Adds moisture and subtle sweetness. Be sure to shred and squeeze dry before adding to the dough.
• Sharp Cheddar: Brings a bold, savory bite and richness.
• Buttermilk: Provides acidity, which helps the biscuits rise and keeps them soft.
• Butter: Cold, cubed butter creates flaky layers and rich taste.
• Fresh herbs: Chives and parsley elevate the flavor with a fresh pop.
• All-purpose flour: A standard base, but using part cake flour can yield an even softer texture.

Optional Substitutions:

• Swap zucchini with yellow summer squash
• Use gluten-free 1:1 flour for a wheat-free version
• Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy variation

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Ingredients:

• ½ cup shredded, peeled zucchini
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (or 1 cup AP + 1 cup cake flour for tenderness)
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 8 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• ¾ cup buttermilk

Instructions:

1. Prep the zucchini
   Shred and salt the zucchini. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze out all the water using a cloth or paper towel.
2. Make the biscuit base
   In a food processor, pulse flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Add butter and pulse until the mixture looks like coarse cornmeal.
3. Mix in cheese and herbs
   Add cheddar, parsley, and chives. Pulse once or twice.
4. Form the dough
   Pour in buttermilk and pulse a few more times until clumps form. Transfer to a bowl, add the squeezed zucchini, and mix gently.
5. Shape and bake
   Use a scoop or spoon to form 12 round biscuits. Place on a baking sheet and top with extra cheese and herbs. Bake at 450°F for 10 minutes.

Pro Tips for Soft and Tender Biscuits

• Don’t overwork the dough—just mix until combined
• Keep butter cold for maximum flakiness
• Use a scoop (#24 disher) for uniform biscuits
• Add a bit more cheese and herbs on top before baking for a crispy, flavorful crust
• Avoid watery dough—squeeze zucchini thoroughly

Tasty Variations You’ll Love

Try mixing things up with these creative spins:

• Spicy Cheddar Biscuits: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne
• Garlic & Herb: Mix in roasted garlic or garlic powder
• Mini Biscuits: Make smaller versions for party appetizers
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 GF flour blend—test shows great results

What to Serve with Zucchini Cheddar Biscuits

These biscuits are incredibly versatile. Serve them with:

• Grilled meats like pork tenderloin or balsamic chicken
• Creamy soups (tomato, broccoli cheddar, etc.)
• Fried or scrambled eggs for a savory breakfast
• Fresh summer salads with a zesty vinaigrette

For advanced biscuit tips and texture techniques, visit King Arthur Baking’s guide to biscuit making to take your baking even further.

How to Store and Reheat Biscuits

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freeze: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months
• Reheat: Use an oven or toaster oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to revive texture

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make zucchini cheddar biscuits gluten-free?

Yes, just use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but still soft and tasty.

Should I peel the zucchini first?

If you’re using a young zucchini with tender skin, peeling isn’t necessary. For older, tougher zucchini, peeling is recommended.

Why are my biscuits soggy?

Excess water in the zucchini is the usual culprit. Make sure to squeeze out the moisture thoroughly.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

What’s the best cheese for these biscuits?

Sharp cheddar is the go-to for a bold flavor. You can also experiment with smoked cheddar or gruyère for variety.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Flat biscuits: Dough was overmixed or butter was too soft
• Sticky dough: Zucchini wasn’t squeezed well enough
• Dry biscuits: Overbaked or not enough buttermilk

Final Thoughts

With their soft crumb, cheesy interior, and the moist richness from zucchini, these biscuits are destined to become a household favorite. Whether you’re hosting brunch, making a quick dinner side, or baking just because, you can’t go wrong with this savory twist on a classic comfort food.

Ready to get baking? These zucchini cheddar biscuits are just the thing to turn your seasonal produce into pure deliciousness.

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