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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Position the oven rack in the middle for even heat distribution.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Cheese: Stir the grated cheddar cheese into the crumbly mixture evenly, distributing it throughout the dough base.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and the large egg until well blended.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the cut scones onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow for rising.
- Optional Glaze: For a shiny golden top, brush the scones lightly with milk before baking.
- 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.
- 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