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The Ultimate Cheese Scones Recipe


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3.9 from 13 reviews

  • Author: Eliza
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 scones
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Ultimate Cheese Scones are a delicious, buttery treat featuring sharp cheddar cheese folded into a light, fluffy scone dough. Perfect for breakfast, tea time, or as a savory snack, these scones combine classic British baking with a hint of spice from optional mustard powder and cayenne pepper. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they bake quickly in the oven, making them a simple yet indulgent homemade delight.


Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 250 g Self-Raising Flour
  • 1 tsp Baking Powder
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • Pinch of Cayenne Pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp Mustard Powder (optional)

Wet Ingredients

  • 75 g Cold Butter, cubed
  • 150 g Cheddar Cheese, grated (mild or strong)
  • 125 ml Milk
  • 1 Large Egg


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Position the oven rack in the middle for even heat distribution.
  2. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, salt, cayenne pepper, and mustard powder if using, ensuring all powders are evenly mixed.
  4. Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture. Use a pastry blender, fork, or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until it forms coarse crumbs resembling breadcrumbs.
  5. Add Cheese: Stir the grated cheddar cheese into the crumbly mixture evenly, distributing it throughout the dough base.
  6. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and the large egg until well blended.
  7. Form Dough: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Gently mix with a spoon or hands until just combined into a sticky dough to avoid toughness.
  8. Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead very gently a few times to bring it together, being careful not to overwork it.
  9. Shape and Cut: Shape the dough into a round disc about 2 cm thick. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out 8 scones or slice the disc into 8 wedges for a rustic look.
  10. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the cut scones onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow for rising.
  11. Optional Glaze: For a shiny golden top, brush the scones lightly with milk before baking.
  12. Bake: Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped.
  13. Cool: Remove the scones from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • For a stronger flavor, use mature cheddar cheese.
  • Mustard powder and cayenne pepper are optional but add a subtle kick to the scones.
  • Be careful not to overmix the dough to keep the scones tender and flaky.
  • Serve warm with butter, jam, or your favorite savory spread.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat briefly before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Baked Goods
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: British