These cheese scones are light, fluffy, and packed with cheesy goodness! Perfect for breakfast or a snack, they are super easy to whip up.
I love enjoying them warm with a bit of butter melting on top. Trust me, they disappear fast! You might want to make a double batch. 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your scones. If you need a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose blend instead. Just ensure it includes a binding agent!
Baking Powder: Essential for making your scones rise. If you run out, you can use a combination of 1/4 teaspoon baking soda and 1/2 teaspoon vinegar as a substitute.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This adds a wonderful flavor. If you’re looking for something milder, try medium cheddar. You could also substitute with Gruyère or any cheese you enjoy.
Buttermilk: Provides moisture and a rich flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with enough milk to make 3/4 cup. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.
How Can I Ensure My Scones Are Fluffy and Light?
One key to fluffy scones is handling the dough gently. Here’s how:
- Use cold ingredients. This helps create a tender texture. A quick chill in the fridge before using butter and buttermilk works wonders.
- Avoid overmixing. Once you add the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. This keeps the scones light.
- Use a sharp knife or cutter. This helps the scones rise nicely without squishing the dough.
- Don’t skip brushing with buttermilk on top. This not only helps with the crispy top but also adds flavor.
With these insights, your cheese scones will come out perfectly every time! Enjoy them warm and cheesy!
How to Make Cheese Scones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)
Butter and Cheese:
- 4 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated (reserve a small amount for topping)
Wet Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup buttermilk (plus a little extra for brushing)
- 1 large egg
Estimated Time:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 15 minutes to bake, making a total of approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help the scones bake evenly and make cleanup a breeze!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk everything together until well blended—this helps to distribute the baking powder evenly.
3. Incorporate the Butter:
Next, add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or even your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is essential for achieving that flaky texture we love in scones!
4. Add the Cheese:
Carefully stir in the grated cheddar cheese, making sure to mix it evenly throughout the dough. The more cheese, the better!
5. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until smoothly combined. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and gently mix until a soft dough forms. Be cautious not to overmix; we want to keep those scones light and fluffy.
6. Shape the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat it into a round shape about 1-inch thick. You can use your hands to shape it gently, avoiding too much kneading.
7. Cut Out the Scones:
Using a sharp knife or round biscuit cutter, cut the dough into scones (you should get about 8). Carefully place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space in between each one.
8. Brush and Add Cheese:
For a nice golden top, brush the tops of the scones lightly with buttermilk. Then, sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top for extra flavor and crunch!
9. Bake the Scones:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and remove them when they are golden brown and have risen beautifully.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take the scones out of the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Enjoy them warm with a pat of butter or any of your favorite toppings!
These cheese scones are deliciously fluffy and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every cheesy bite! 😊
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Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds great flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a mix for a more complex taste. Just note that softer cheeses can change the texture slightly.
What If I Don’t Have Buttermilk?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly, and you’ll have homemade buttermilk ready to use!
How Do I Store Leftover Scones?
Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Reheat in the oven for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience!
Can I Make These Scones Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can substitute regular all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best results!
