Cheese and Chive Biscuits

INGREDIENTS:

For the Biscuits:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives
1 cup buttermilk

For the Topping (optional):
2 tablespoons melted butter
Additional chopped chives for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

Prepare the Dough:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.
Cut the chilled butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives.

Mix and Shape:
Pour in the buttermilk and gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Use a biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out biscuits and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake:
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top.

Prepare the Topping (optional):
While the biscuits are baking, melt the butter.
Brush the hot biscuits with melted butter and sprinkle with additional chopped chives, if desired