Description
These cheese scones are a delicious, flaky baked treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. Made with sharp cheddar cheese, butter, and simple pantry staples, they are easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection with a tender crumb and cheesy flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup (60g) cold unsalted butter, diced
- 1 cup (100g) grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup (180ml) whole milk
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
- Cut in Butter: Add the cold diced butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until evenly incorporated throughout the flour mixture.
- Add Milk and Form Dough: Pour in the milk and gently mix until a soft dough forms. Avoid overworking the dough to keep scones tender.
- Shape Scones: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat into a 1-inch thick round. Using a floured cutter, cut into rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Optional Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the scones with the beaten egg to achieve a glossy, golden brown finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the scones have risen and the tops are golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature with butter or your favorite spread.
Notes
- Use cold butter to ensure flaky scones.
- Do not overmix the dough; it should be just combined.
- Sharp cheddar cheese enhances flavor, but you can substitute with other hard cheeses.
- Scones are best eaten fresh but can be reheated gently in a warm oven.