The Ultimate Cheese Scones Recipe
When it comes to delightful, savory baked goods, few treats can compete with the cheese scone. Bursting with rich, cheesy flavor, a well-made cheese scone is a perfect companion to afternoon tea or a savory snack any time of day. In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide to creating the most delicious, fluffy, and savory cheese scones. Follow our detailed recipe to ensure your cheese scones are a hit every time.
Ingredients for the Perfect Cheese Scones
Creating the perfect cheese scones requires high-quality ingredients. Here is a detailed list:
- 250g self-raising flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 55g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 150g mature cheddar cheese, grated
- 150ml milk, plus extra for brushing
- 1 tsp English mustard powder (optional)
- A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Choosing the Right Cheese
For the best flavor, it is crucial to use a mature cheddar cheese. The robust flavor of mature cheddar adds depth to the scones, making them irresistibly savory. You may also experiment with other cheeses such as Gruyère, Parmesan, or a mix for a unique twist.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cheese Scones
1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 220°C (200°C fan)/425°F/Gas Mark 7. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the mustard powder and cayenne pepper if using. This step ensures that the scones will rise well and have a uniform texture.
3. Incorporating the Butter
Add the cubed, chilled butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. This process should be done quickly to keep the butter from melting, ensuring a light and flaky scone.
4. Adding the Cheese
Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, reserving a small handful to sprinkle on top of the scones before baking. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
5. Bringing the Dough Together
Make a well in the center of the mixture and pour in the milk. Using a round-bladed knife, mix the ingredients together to form a soft dough. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough scones.
6. Shaping the Scones
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead very gently to bring it together. Pat or roll the dough to a thickness of about 2 cm (3/4 inch). Use a 5 cm (2 inch) round cutter to cut out the scones, re-rolling the scraps as needed.
7. Baking the Scones
Place the scones onto the prepared baking tray, spaced slightly apart. Brush the tops with a little milk and sprinkle with the reserved cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and well-risen.
8. Cooling and Serving
Transfer the baked scones to a wire rack to cool slightly. Cheese scones are best served warm, split open and spread with a little butter, or simply enjoyed on their own.
Tips for Perfect Cheese Scones
Use Cold Ingredients
Keeping the butter and milk cold is essential for achieving the best texture in your scones. Cold butter creates pockets of steam as the scones bake, resulting in a flaky texture.
Avoid Overworking the Dough
Overworking the dough can lead to dense, tough scones. Mix the ingredients until just combined and handle the dough as little as possible when shaping.
Experiment with Flavors
While cheddar is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to experiment with other cheeses and add-ins like herbs, spices, or even a bit of cooked bacon for a unique twist on the traditional cheese scone.
Serving Suggestions
Cheese scones are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:
- With Soup: Serve cheese scones alongside a bowl of hearty soup for a comforting meal.
- At Afternoon Tea: Cheese scones make a savory addition to an afternoon tea spread, balancing out the sweetness of cakes and pastries.
- As a Snack: Enjoy a cheese scone as a snack, either plain or with a bit of butter.
Storing and Reheating Cheese Scones
Cheese scones are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored and reheated:
Storing
Store cheese scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, they can be frozen.
Freezing
To freeze cheese scones, let them cool completely, then wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and place in a resealable freezer bag. Frozen scones can be kept for up to three months.
Reheating
Reheat cheese scones in a preheated oven at 180°C (160°C fan)/350°F/Gas Mark 4 for about 10 minutes. If reheating from frozen, allow the scones to thaw at room temperature first.
Conclusion
Cheese scones are a delightful, savory treat that can be enjoyed in many different settings. By following our detailed recipe and tips, you can create perfect cheese scones every time. Whether served at afternoon tea, as a snack, or alongside a meal, these scones are sure to be a hit.
