These Ham Biscuit Sandwiches with Apricot Mustard are the perfect balance of savory and sweet, making them an ideal brunch or light lunch option. The biscuits are tender, buttery, and flaky, providing the ultimate base for layers of smoky ham, sharp cheddar cheese, and crisp lettuce. But the real star? The Apricot Mustard, which brings a delightful mix of sweetness and tang that elevates every bite.
Whether you’re serving these for a casual weekend brunch or prepping them for a special occasion, they are sure to impress. The homemade biscuits are simple yet incredibly rewarding, and the sandwich fillings are endlessly customizable. Try adding a fried egg for extra richness or swapping out the ham for crispy bacon. However you make them, these biscuit sandwiches are bound to be a crowd-pleaser!
Full Recipe:
Biscuits:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled), plus extra for dusting
- 1 1/2 tbsp baking powder
- 3/4 tsp baking soda
- 1 1/2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces, plus 2 tsp melted
- 1 3/4 cups cold buttermilk
Filling:
- Sliced ham
- Extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, sliced
- Lettuce leaves
Apricot Mustard:
- 1/2 cup apricot jam
- 2 tbsp whole-grain mustard
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Directions:
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Prepare the Biscuits: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt.
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Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Stir in the cold buttermilk just until combined. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead lightly 3 to 4 times.
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Pat the dough into a 3/4-inch-thick rectangle and cut into 9 equal squares.
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Arrange the biscuits on a baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch. Brush with melted butter. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
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Prepare the Apricot Mustard: In a small bowl, whisk together apricot jam, whole-grain mustard, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
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Assemble the Sandwiches: Slice biscuits in half. Layer with ham, cheddar cheese, and lettuce. Drizzle or spread with Apricot Mustard before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 325 kcal | Servings: 9 servings
Ham Biscuit Sandwiches with Apricot Mustard: A Southern Classic with a Gourmet Twist
Ham Biscuit Sandwiches with Apricot Mustard are a delightful combination of fluffy homemade biscuits, savory ham, sharp cheddar cheese, crisp lettuce, and a unique sweet-and-tangy apricot mustard spread. This dish perfectly balances flavors and textures, making it an excellent option for brunch, lunch, or even a quick snack. The homemade biscuits elevate the experience, providing a warm, buttery base that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
The Perfect Blend of Sweet and Savory
One of the standout features of this dish is the apricot mustard. While ham and biscuits are a classic combination in Southern cuisine, the addition of apricot mustard takes it to another level. The natural sweetness of apricot jam pairs harmoniously with the zesty bite of both whole-grain and Dijon mustard, creating a condiment that enhances every bite. This sauce is so versatile that it can be used for other sandwiches, grilled meats, or even as a dip for roasted vegetables.
Why Homemade Biscuits Make a Difference
While store-bought biscuits can be a convenient substitute, nothing beats the taste and texture of homemade biscuits. These biscuits are made from scratch using simple ingredients like flour, butter, buttermilk, and leavening agents. The key to achieving their signature flakiness lies in properly incorporating cold butter into the dough, which creates layers that bake up light and airy.
Another advantage of making biscuits at home is the ability to customize them. Whether you prefer a hint of cheese in the dough, a touch of honey for added sweetness, or a bit of black pepper for extra depth, homemade biscuits allow you to tailor the flavors to your liking.
Choosing the Right Ham for Maximum Flavor
The type of ham you choose significantly impacts the final taste of these sandwiches. A high-quality smoked or honey-glazed ham works best, as it provides a rich, slightly sweet contrast to the sharp cheddar and mustard sauce. Some great options include:
- Country Ham: This salt-cured ham has an intense, bold flavor that pairs exceptionally well with the biscuits. However, it can be quite salty, so balancing it with the apricot mustard is key.
- Black Forest Ham: This variety has a smoky and slightly sweet taste, adding a layer of complexity to the sandwich.
- Honey-Glazed Ham: For those who enjoy a bit of extra sweetness, honey-glazed ham is an excellent option. It complements the apricot mustard beautifully.
Regardless of which type of ham you use, make sure to slice it thinly for the best texture and flavor distribution.
Pairing Cheddar Cheese for the Ultimate Combination
Cheddar cheese is a natural partner for ham, providing a sharp, creamy contrast that enhances the overall taste of the sandwich. Extra-sharp cheddar is the best choice, as its bold flavor stands out against the sweet mustard and rich biscuit base. If you’re looking for alternatives, here are a few suggestions:
- Smoked Gouda: Adds a subtle smoky depth to the sandwich.
- Swiss Cheese: Offers a mild and nutty flavor that pairs well with the ham.
- Brie: For a more decadent twist, brie cheese provides a creamy, buttery texture.
Why This Recipe Is a Crowd-Pleaser
This recipe is perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing a meal for a picnic, or looking for a satisfying lunch option, these ham biscuit sandwiches are an excellent choice. Here’s why:
- Easy to Prepare: While making biscuits from scratch requires a bit of effort, the process is simple and can be completed in under an hour.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out the fillings, adjust the level of sweetness in the mustard, or add extra toppings to suit your preferences.
- Great for Meal Prep: The biscuits can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container, making it easy to assemble sandwiches on the go.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
To make these sandwiches even more special, consider serving them with a few complementary sides. Some great options include:
- Fresh Fruit: A side of sliced peaches, berries, or apple slices enhances the sweet and savory elements of the sandwich.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch.
- Roasted Potatoes: A hearty side of crispy roasted potatoes pairs beautifully with the biscuits.
- Scrambled Eggs: Adding a soft scrambled egg to the sandwich makes it a more filling breakfast option.
If you’re looking for creative variations of this recipe, try the following:
- Spicy Kick: Add a bit of sriracha or hot honey to the apricot mustard for a spicy twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ham with roasted portobello mushrooms or grilled eggplant.
- Bacon Swap: Substitute ham with crispy bacon for a different texture and flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, you can store the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
The apricot mustard can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week and used for multiple meals. If you want to prepare sandwiches in advance, store all components separately and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
Ham Biscuit Sandwiches with Apricot Mustard are a fantastic way to elevate a simple sandwich into something special. The homemade biscuits provide a soft, buttery foundation, while the combination of smoky ham, sharp cheddar, and sweet-and-tangy apricot mustard creates a perfect harmony of flavors. Whether you’re making these for a casual weekend brunch or a special occasion, they are guaranteed to impress.
By choosing high-quality ingredients and taking a little extra time to make the biscuits from scratch, you’ll be rewarded with a dish that is both comforting and gourmet. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll quickly see why it’s a must-have in any home cook’s repertoire!