Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until well combined.
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or two forks, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter remaining.
Stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 medium peeled and diced apple, and 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves. Make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Pour in 3/4 cup milk and gently mix with a spatula or your hands until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough, or your biscuits may turn out tough.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a rectangle about 1-inch thick. Using a sharp knife or biscuit cutter, cut the dough into 8-10 biscuits. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top and cooked through. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a rack for a few minutes.
Equipment
Mixing Bowls
Pastry cutter or two forks
Baking Sheet
Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Sharp knife or biscuit cutter
Cooling Rack
Notes
Use cold butter to ensure flaky layers in the biscuits.
Substitute milk and cheese with dairy-free alternatives for a vegan version.
Freeze unbaked biscuits for up to 3 months and bake from frozen, adding extra baking time.