If you’re looking for a savory twist to your usual baked treats, these Cheddar Cheese Scones are just the thing! Infused with sharp cheddar and a hint of cayenne pepper, these scones offer a delightful combination of flavors that will entice any cheese lover. They’re perfect for a morning brunch, a cozy afternoon tea, or even as a side to your dinner salad. Below, you’ll find a detailed recipe including an optional chive butter for an extra touch of decadence.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ⅓ cup cold butter, cut into pieces
- 1 ¼ cup Cabot Seriously Sharp Cheddar, shredded
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- Milk to brush top of scone
Optional Chive Butter:
- 2 tablespoons melted salted butter
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or parsley
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Cut in Butter: Using a pastry cutter or two knives, cut the butter into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for flaky scones.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese to evenly distribute it throughout the mixture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and heavy cream.
- Form the Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined—over-mixing can make the scones tough.
- Knead and Shape: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently for about 10 to 12 strokes. Shape the dough into an 8-inch circle and cut it into 8 wedges.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the wedges on an ungreased baking sheet, about 1 inch apart. Brush the tops with a little milk to give them a beautiful golden finish.
- Bake: Slide the tray into the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the scones are golden and firm to the touch.
- Make Chive Butter: While the scones bake, combine the melted butter, chives (or parsley), and garlic powder.
- Serve: Once done, remove the scones from the oven, brush them with the chive butter, and serve while warm.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Calories: 280 kcal per serving
- Servings: 8
These Cheddar Cheese Scones are not just delicious; they are also a comforting reminder of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something spectacular. Whether you’re setting up for a family breakfast or looking for something special to bake for friends, these scones are sure to impress. Enjoy them warm with a dollop of chive butter for a truly indulgent experience!
Cheddar Cheese Scones
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
Description
The combination of sharp cheddar and the subtle heat of cayenne pepper in these Cheddar Cheese Scones creates a rich and savory flavor that’s perfect for any meal. The scones are light, flaky, and buttery, making them an irresistible treat.
For an extra touch of indulgence, serve these scones with homemade chive butter. The fresh chives add a pop of color and a mild oniony flavor that complements the richness of the scones. These are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon snack. Whether you’re serving them at a casual family gathering or a more formal brunch, these scones are sure to impress.
Ingredients
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 tablespoon sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
⅓ cup cold butter, cut into pieces
1 ¼ cup Cabot Seriously Sharp Cheddar, shredded
2 eggs, beaten
¾ cup heavy cream
Milk to brush top of scone
Chive Butter (optional):
2 tablespoons melted salted butter
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or parsley
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F.
Combine dry ingredients in a bowl. Using a pastry cutter, cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add cheese and stir to combine.
Combine eggs and heavy cream. Add the egg mixture to the flour mixture and stir just until it forms a dough.
On a lightly floured surface, knead dough by folding and gently pressing dough for 10 to 12 strokes until nearly smooth. Pat dough into an 8-inch circle and cut into 8 wedges.
Place wedges 1-inch apart on an ungreased baking sheet. Brush with milk.
Bake for 18-22 minutes or until golden. Remove scones from the baking sheet. Let cool slightly.
Combine chive butter ingredients. Brush over warm scones and serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 280 kcal