Oh, the humble scone! Often associated with sweet jams and clotted cream, but let me tell you, its savory counterpart is a revelation that will transform your breakfast, brunch, or snack time into an absolute delight. Imagine biting into a warm, tender scone, fragrant with aromatic herbs and bursting with pockets of melted, savory cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest, a little hug in every bite, and surprisingly easy to whip up in your own kitchen!
These Savory Herb and Cheese Scones are truly something special. They’re golden on the outside, incredibly soft and flaky on the inside, and packed with layers of flavor. We’re talking fresh chives, a hint of garlic powder, and generous amounts of sharp cheddar cheese (or your favorite blend!). They’re incredibly versatile too – perfect alongside a hearty soup, as a side for a weekend roast, or simply enjoyed on their own with a smear of butter. Forget everything you thought you knew about scones and get ready for a savory sensation!
What makes this recipe so fantastic is its simplicity. You don’t need any fancy equipment or advanced baking skills. If you’ve ever thought about trying your hand at making perfect homemade bread, these scones are a wonderful stepping stone into the world of baking. The key to their tender texture lies in using cold butter and not overworking the dough – simple tricks that yield professional-quality results every time. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while these are baking is utterly irresistible. Your family and friends will be drawn in, asking what deliciousness you’re conjuring!
These scones are an absolute game-changer for entertaining. Hosting a brunch? These are a must-have! Looking for creative brunch ideas that will truly impress? Look no further! They can even serve as a delightful addition to your top 10 appetizers for guests list. Served warm straight from the oven, they offer a sophisticated yet approachable touch to any spread. The combination of savory herbs and rich cheese complements so many other dishes, making them a versatile star.
So, if you’re ready to dive into a world of comforting, flavorful baking, grab your apron! This recipe for Savory Herb and Cheese Scones is about to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Get ready for rave reviews and empty plates!
Ingredients
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2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter (very cold, cut into small cubes)
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1 cup (113g) sharp cheddar cheese (shredded, or your favorite savory cheese)
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2 tablespoons fresh chives (minced)
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley (minced (optional))
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3/4 cup cold milk (plus 1-2 tablespoons more if needed)
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1 large egg (for egg wash)
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1 tablespoon water or milk (for egg wash)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure all ingredients are well combined.
Add the very cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips, a pastry blender, or two knives, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. This step is crucial for flaky scones!
💡 Tip: Keep the butter as cold as possible; warmth will melt the butter and make your scones less flaky.
Gently fold in the shredded cheese, minced chives, and parsley (if using). Distribute them evenly throughout the mixture.
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the cold milk. Stir with a fork or your hands just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix! The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it’s too dry, add a tiny bit more milk, one teaspoon at a time.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat the dough into a round disc, about 1-inch thick. Avoid kneading excessively, as this can make the scones tough.
Using a 2-inch round cutter (or a knife), cut out 12 scones. Press straight down, do not twist the cutter, as twisting can seal the edges and prevent them from rising properly. Re-gather any scraps, gently press them together, and cut out additional scones until all dough is used.
Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch between them. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water (or milk) for the egg wash. Lightly brush the tops of the scones with the egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top and cooked through. The internal temperature should be around 200-205°F (93-96°C).
Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm and enjoy!
💡 Tips
- Always use very cold butter and cold milk. This creates steam during baking, leading to flaky scones.
- Do not overmix the dough. Overworking develops gluten, which results in tough scones. Mix just until combined.
- When cutting scones, press straight down with your cutter rather than twisting. Twisting can seal the edges and inhibit rise.
- For extra flavor, lightly toast your dry herbs before adding them, or use a combination of different fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- Scones are best served fresh and warm, ideally on the day they are baked.
🎨 Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely diced jalapeños to the dough for a bit of heat.
- Bacon & Chive: Fold in 1/4 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon bits along with the cheese and chives.
- Sun-Dried Tomato & Feta: Swap cheddar for crumbled feta and add 1/4 cup of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained) to the dough.
- Caramelized Onion & Gruyère: Sauté one small onion until caramelized, cool it completely, then fold it into the dough with grated Gruyère cheese.
- Garlic Herb: Increase the garlic powder and add a mix of Italian herbs like oregano and basil.
📊 Nutrition
Recipe FAQs
Can I make these scones ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, cut the scones, and place them on a baking sheet. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
How do I store leftover scones?
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. They are best reheated briefly in the microwave (15-20 seconds) or a toaster oven for a few minutes to restore their warmth and tenderness.
Can I freeze these savory scones?
Absolutely! You can freeze either unbaked or baked scones. For unbaked scones, freeze the cut rounds on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding about 5-8 minutes to the baking time. For baked scones, cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.
What kind of cheese is best for savory scones?
Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment! Gruyère, Parmesan, smoked gouda, or a blend of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack would also be delicious. Avoid overly soft or watery cheeses.
There you have it – a recipe for Savory Herb and Cheese Scones that will truly warm your heart and impress your taste buds! Whether it's a cozy morning breakfast, a delightful afternoon treat, or an elegant addition to your next gathering, these scones are sure to be a hit. Don't be shy, give them a try and let the delicious aromas fill your home! Happy baking!
