Cheese Scones

Why Make This Recipe

Cheese scones are a tasty treat that everyone loves. They are simple to make and perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a party. With a crispy outside and a soft, cheesy inside, they are sure to please anyone who tries them.

How to Make Cheese Scones

Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups plain flour (or all-purpose flour)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or tasty cheese (packet shredded is fine, tightly pack the cups!)
• 3 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp cooking salt or kosher salt (halve for table salt, +50% for flakes)
• 100g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter, cold, cut into 1 cm cubes
• 3/4 cup milk (cold, plus a little extra for brushing, preferably full fat)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (for topping)
• Butter (for spreading)

Directions:

Abbreviated Recipe:

1. Mix flour, cheese, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
2. Add butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Stir in milk to form a dough.
4. Shape dough into rounds, place on a tray, and brush with milk.
5. Sprinkle cheese on top and bake until golden.

Full Recipe:

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, shredded cheese, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
3. Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Use your fingers to rub in the butter until the mix looks crumbly.
4. Pour in the cold milk, and stir gently until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times until it is smooth.
6. Pat the dough down to about 2 cm thick. Use a round cutter to cut out scones.
7. Place the scones on a baking tray lined with baking paper. Brush the tops with a little extra milk and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
8. Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown on top.
9. Let them cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Cheese Scones

Serve the cheese scones warm or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own or spread with a bit of butter. You can also pair them with soup or salad for a satisfying meal.

How to Store Cheese Scones

Keep leftover cheese scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Place the cooled scones in a freezer bag for up to three months. To eat, simply thaw and reheat in the oven.

Tips to Make Cheese Scones

• Use cold ingredients for a flakier scone.
• Don’t overmix the dough; it should be soft but not sticky.
• You can add herbs or spices to the dough for more flavor.

Variation

For a twist, try adding cooked bacon bits or herbs like chives or rosemary to the dough. You can also use different types of cheese for a varied taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of plain flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese and substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative.

3. How can I tell when the scones are done?
The scones are done when they are golden brown on top, and they will feel firm to touch.