Cheesy Bread with Thyme

Herbs, poppy seeds, and a nippy topping of cheese transform basic baking powder biscuit dough into a flavorful dinner bread. Cut in generous squares and serve hot.

1/2 cup (l stick) butter

1 large yellow onion, chopped (1/2 cup)

1 egg, lightly beaten

1/2 cup buttermilk

1 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

3 tablespoons minced fresh thyme

1 tablespoon poppy seeds

 

Preheat oven to 35O°F and grease an 8-inch square pan. In a small skillet, melt l tablespoon of the butter and sauté the onion until it is soft and golden. Combine the egg and buttermilk in a large bowl.

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder, and cut in 5 tablespoons of the butter. Blend into the egg and buttermilk mixture. Add the onion and 1/2 cup of the cheese. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and combine with the remaining cheese, the thyme, and the poppy seeds. Spread the dough in the pan and pour the cheese mixture over the top.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, cut into squares, and serve hot.