Combine flour, baking powder, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Coarsely grate the frozen butter and add to the flour mixture. Stir gently, until the butter pieces are coated with the flour.
Add the bacon, cheddar, maple syrup, and thyme to the bowl. Stir until just combined. Add buttermilk and stir until a ragged dough forms. Turn the mixture onto a lightly floured surface and pat into a square about 1” thick.
Fold the far edge of the square towards you, then gently roll or press the dough back into a square. Repeat 2 more times, and finish by forming the dough into a square about 1” thick once more.
Transfer the dough to a parchment lined baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to cut into 9 squares. Separate the squares slightly and brush the tops with a bit of buttermilk.
Bake for 15-18 minutes, until biscuits are golden and cooked through. If they start to brown too quickly, tent with foil to prevent from burning. Brush biscuits with maple syrup while warm. Serve with butter and enjoy!
