Scones are a classic baked good that bridges the gap between bread and pastry, offering a delightful combination of tenderness and richness. Among the many variations of scones, cheese, and herb scones stand out for their savory flavor profile and versatility. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a savory snack, these scones are infused with the sharpness of cheddar cheese and the aromatic notes of fresh herbs.
The process of making cheese and herb scones is straightforward and rewarding. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a batch of scones that are golden on the outside and soft on the inside. The addition of cold butter ensures flakiness, while the cheese melts into pockets of gooey goodness. Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme add a burst of flavor that complements the cheese beautifully.
Whether you’re enjoying them straight from the oven or pairing them with your favorite soup, these scones are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Let’s dive into the recipe and start baking these delicious cheese and herb scones!
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup (60g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup (100g) grated cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as chives, parsley, or thyme) or 1 tablespoon dried herbs
- 3/4 cup (180ml) milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and mustard powder if using.
- Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The butter pieces should be about pea-sized.
- Add Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the grated cheese and chopped herbs until evenly distributed.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl or a measuring cup, whisk together the milk (or buttermilk) and the egg until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the milk and egg mixture. Gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.
- Form the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead the dough a few times to bring it together, then pat it into a disk about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick.
- Cut the Scones: Using a round cutter (about 2.5 inches or 6.5 cm in diameter), cut out scones and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Gather the scraps and repeat until all the dough is used.
- Bake: Brush the tops of the scones with a little extra milk or beaten egg for a glossy finish, if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm, with butter or additional cheese if desired.
Tips
- Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter and milk (or buttermilk) are cold. This helps create flaky layers in the scones.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to tough scones. Mix until just combined.
- Customize: Feel free to customize the herbs and cheese to your liking. You can add garlic powder, onion powder, or even a bit of cayenne pepper for a kick.
Enjoy your delicious cheese and herb scones!
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