Introduction
Elevate your baking game with these savory cheddar scones, a perfect blend of sharp cheese and a hint of sweetness from honey. Crispy on the outside and tender within, these scones are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or simply as a delightful snack. With a touch of black pepper to complement the cheddar, these treats are bound to impress your family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, plus more for topping
¾ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into pieces
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
1 cup buttermilk
¼ cup honey
2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12 to 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 wedges
With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can create delicious cheddar scones that are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the perfect combination of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper until well mixed.
Step 3: Incorporate Butter
Add the cold, cut-up pieces of unsalted butter to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with some larger pieces remaining.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Stir in 8 ounces of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese until it is evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of buttermilk and ¼ cup of honey. Stir the mixture until smooth to ensure the honey is well incorporated.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the buttermilk and honey mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir until a dough forms, taking care not to overmix.
Step 7: Shape the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide it into two equal halves and shape each portion into a round disc approximately 5 inches in diameter.
Step 8: Prepare for Baking
Brush the tops of the discs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle additional cracked black pepper over the top for added flavor.
Step 9: Cut and Arrange Wedges
Using a sharp knife, cut each disc into 6 wedges. Place the wedges onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for expansion while baking.
Step 10: Bake Scones
Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.
Step 11: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving.
Notes
Butter Temperature
Ensure the butter is cold to create flaky layers in the scones.
Grating Cheese
For the best flavor and texture, grate the cheddar cheese fresh instead of using pre-grated cheese.
Overmixing
Be cautious not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough scones. Mixing just until combined is key.
Spices and Variations
Feel free to add herbs or spices to the dough for extra flavor. Variations could include adding ingredients like cooked bacon, green onions, or different types of cheese.
Storage
Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze for longer storage. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.
Cook techniques
Whisking Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and black pepper to ensure an even distribution of ingredients, which helps the scones rise properly.
Cutting in Butter
Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This creates flakiness in the scones.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
Combine buttermilk and honey in a separate bowl until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and sweetness to the scones.
Gently Forming Dough
Pour the buttermilk mixture into the dry ingredients and mix gently until a dough forms. Avoid overmixing to maintain a light texture in the baked scones.
Shaping the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface, divide it in half, and shape each portion into a round disc. This helps in achieving even baking and texture.
Brushing with Butter
Brushing the tops of the dough discs with melted butter before baking enhances flavor and creates a golden-brown crust.
Cutting Wedges
Cut each disc into wedges before placing them on the baking sheet for even baking. This also allows for easy serving after baking.
Baking Techniques
Bake the scones at a high temperature to achieve a golden exterior and fluffy interior. Monitoring baking time is essential for optimal texture.
FAQ
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While you can use margarine, the scones may not have the same richness and flakiness as with unsalted butter.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for about 5 minutes as a buttermilk substitute.
How do I store leftover scones?
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Can I freeze the scone dough?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked scone dough. Wrap it tightly and keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Is it okay to add other ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs, garlic, or other cheeses for variations in flavor, keeping the overall moisture balance in mind.
Conclusion
These savory cheddar scones are a delightful twist on traditional baked goods, combining the richness of cheese with a hint of sweetness from honey and a touch of warmth from black pepper. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack, these scones are sure to impress with their flaky texture and robust flavor.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Herb and Garlic Cheddar Scones
Add fresh herbs like chives or rosemary and minced garlic to the dough for an aromatic twist.
Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Scones
Incorporate diced jalapeños and a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the scones a spicy kick.
Bacon and Cheddar Scones
Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon along with the cheddar for a smoky, savory treat.
Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Scones
Substitute cheddar with crumbled feta and add sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
Blue Cheese and Walnut Scones
Replace the cheddar with crumbled blue cheese and fold in chopped walnuts for a rich, gourmet variation.
Sweet Potato and Cheddar Scones
Incorporate cooked, mashed sweet potato into the dough for added moisture and a hint of sweetness.
Pumpkin Cheddar Scones
Use pumpkin puree in place of some of the buttermilk for a seasonal flavor and a beautiful color.
Apple and Cheddar Scones
Add diced apples to the cheese mixture for a sweet and savory combination that’s perfect for fall.
