Easy Vegan Cheddar Bay Biscuits That Taste Just Like Red Lobster

If you’ve ever wondered how to recreate the iconic Red Lobster cheddar bay biscuits at home — but vegan — you’re in for a treat. These biscuits are soft, cheesy, and perfectly garlicky, topped with a fragrant vegan butter garlic sauce.

Plus, they’re super easy to make in one bowl, ready in about 40 minutes. Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe will become your go-to whenever you want a comforting, flaky biscuit that everyone will love.

Why vegan cheddar bay biscuits are so special

These biscuits capture the magic of the original Red Lobster favorites but with a plant-based twist. Through the use of vegan cheddar cheese and dairy-free butter, they deliver that rich, comforting flavor while being suitable for vegans and those with dairy sensitivities, aligning with the basics of a balanced vegan diet.

They’re packed with savory, garlicky flavor and have a fluffy, tender texture that melts in your mouth. What makes them stand out?

They’re a nostalgic crowd-pleaser that you can make easily at home without compromising on taste or texture.

What you need to know about the ingredients

Key ingredients create the unique taste and texture of these biscuits. Vegan cheddar cheese shreds provide that signature cheesy flavor and melty texture.

Unsweetened soy milk combined with apple cider vinegar mimics traditional buttermilk, adding tenderness and a subtle tang. The bakery staple of all-purpose flour and baking powder gives lift and structure.

Garlic powder enhances the savory notes, and a touch of cayenne pepper gives optional warmth without overwhelming the flavor. Melted vegan butter in the dough and topping adds richness and helps develop a golden crust.

How to make vegan cheddar bay biscuits step by step

1. First, make vegan buttermilk by mixing unsweetened soy milk with apple cider vinegar and letting it curdle for a few minutes.
2. Then whisk together the dry ingredients – flour, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and optional cayenne pepper.
3. Gently stir the melted vegan butter and the vegan buttermilk into the dry mix until a soft dough forms, taking care not to overmix, which can make the biscuits tough. Fold in the shredded vegan cheddar cheese carefully.
4. Using a greased ¼ cup measure, scoop out the dough onto a baking sheet, leaving space for rising. Bake at 450°F for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
5. For the topping, melt vegan butter and mix it with garlic powder and fresh parsley. Brush the warm biscuits generously for that signature coating.
6. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture!

Ingredient substitutions and tips for success

For the best results, keep these tips and substitutions in mind:

• Milk: If you don’t have soy milk, unsweetened almond or oat milk works well too. Just avoid sweetened or flavored varieties, as different plant milks can alter the final taste.
• Vinegar: White vinegar or lemon juice can substitute for apple cider vinegar but will slightly alter the flavor.
• Flour: If you prefer gluten-free biscuits, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can be used, though the texture may differ slightly.
• Cheese: If vegan cheddar isn’t available, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor, but you may need to reduce the flour slightly to avoid dryness.
• Butter: Use vegan butter sticks rather than tub butter for best results, as they measure more accurately and have a better consistency for baking.
• Shredding Cheese: Always shred your cheese from a block if possible. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can inhibit melting, a fact highlighted in many guides to vegan cheese.

Troubleshooting common biscuit problems

If your biscuits aren’t perfect on the first try, here’s how to fix common issues:

• Dense or Hard Biscuits: This is often due to overmixing the dough. Mix just until the ingredients come together to keep the biscuits tender and fluffy.
• Biscuits Don’t Rise: Check your baking powder’s freshness, a common tip recommended by baking experts, and ensure your oven temperature is accurate.
• Dry Biscuits: Your dough may need a bit more moisture. Try adding slightly more vegan buttermilk or butter next time.
• Cheese Isn’t Melting: Make sure to use a high-quality melting vegan cheddar and fold it in gently so it stays evenly distributed.
• Sticking to the Pan: For an easy release every time, use parchment paper or a silicone mat on your baking sheet.

Serving suggestions for your vegan cheddar bay biscuits

These biscuits are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. They’re perfect alongside vegan seafood alternatives like beer-battered fried tofu or vegan crab cakes for a satisfying meal.

Try them with hearty soups like vegan clam chowder, or fresh, zesty salads like this zesty chickpea avocado salad to balance the richness. For an indulgent experience, serve them warm alongside hearty main courses like an impossible meatloaf stuffed with cheese or with creamy pasta dishes.

Don’t forget they also make a great appetizer or party snack, perfect for serving alongside other crowd-pleasers like an easy vegan 7 layer dip.

How to store and reheat leftover biscuits

Leftover biscuits keep well at room temperature in a covered container for 3 to 4 days. To extend their life, freeze them for up to 3 months by wrapping each biscuit individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

For best results, thaw frozen biscuits at room temperature or warm them gently in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving too long to prevent drying out.

Reheating in the oven also helps refresh the garlic butter topping’s flavor and crisp the edges slightly.

Conclusion

These vegan cheddar bay biscuits offer a delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food in a plant-based version. By understanding the ingredients, following the recipe carefully, and using the tips and troubleshooting advice shared here, you can achieve soft, fluffy, and flavorful biscuits every time.

Whether served as a side for dinner, an appetizer, or a snack, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with serving ideas and store leftovers correctly to enjoy their goodness anytime.