Preheat oven to 425°F. Whisk flour, sugar, and baking powder in a large bowl.

Stir in buttermilk until a thick, sticky batter forms. Add a splash more if too dry. Don’t overmix.

Gently fold in ham and cheddar, keeping the batter light.

Pour melted butter into a greased 9×9 dish, tilting to coat the bottom.

Spread batter evenly into the dish. Lightly score the top into nine squares.

Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and set. Cover with foil if browning too fast.

Cool for 5 minutes before cutting. Serve warm, with butter or honey.