Save to Pinterest Savory, fluffy biscuit donuts infused with aromatic garlic, spicy chili, and melted cheese—perfect as a snack, appetizer, or brunch treat.
I first tried making these when my friends needed a hearty snack during game night. Their cheesy centers and kick of chili made them a fast favorite in our group.
Ingredients
- Dough: 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp chili flakes, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/4 cup (60 g) cold unsalted butter (diced), 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese, 3/4 cup (180 ml) buttermilk (plus extra if needed)
- Topping & Garnish: 2 tbsp melted butter, 1 clove garlic (finely minced), 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, optional), extra chili flakes (to taste), 1/4 cup (25 g) grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare baking sheet:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, chili flakes, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Cut in butter:
- Add cold butter; blend with pastry cutter or fingertips until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add cheese:
- Stir in shredded cheddar.
- Combine with buttermilk:
- Pour in buttermilk, gently mix until just combined. Add extra buttermilk if needed.
- Shape dough:
- Pat dough on floured surface to 3/4-inch (2 cm) thick. Cut donut shapes using cutters. Gather scraps and repeat.
- Arrange donuts:
- Place donuts on sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
- Brush and season:
- Mix melted butter with garlic, brush generously on donuts. Sprinkle with chili flakes and parmesan.
- Bake:
- Bake 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Save to Pinterest My family always requests these for weekend brunches—the cheesy aroma brings everyone to the kitchen before they even leave the oven.
Serving Suggestions
Try pairing these donuts with a tangy tomato dip or cool sour cream for a beautiful balance. They make a fantastic party appetizer or cozy snack.
Ingredient Swaps
Swap cheddar for pepper jack or gouda to change up the flavor, or use store-bought biscuit dough to save time.
Required Tools
You will need mixing bowls, a pastry cutter or fork, donut or round cookie cutters, a baking sheet, and a pastry brush for best results.
Save to Pinterest With simple ingredients and a bold twist, these biscuit donuts always impress. Whip them up for guests, or keep them all to yourself.
Ask About This Recipe
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of cheddar?
Yes, try pepper jack, gouda, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile and texture.
- → What can I serve with these donuts?
Pair with tangy tomato dip, sour cream, or yogurt-based sauce for extra depth and creaminess.
- → How spicy are these donuts?
The level of heat depends on the amount of chili flakes added. Adjust to your taste preference for mild or extra kick.
- → Can the dough be prepped ahead?
The dough can be mixed and shaped in advance, then baked fresh for optimal taste and texture.
- → Are biscuit donuts suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these donuts contain no meat—just dairy and wheat—making them ideal for vegetarian diets.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.