Cheddar Cheese Scones Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a delightfully savory treat that pairs perfectly with any meal or stands wonderfully on its own, this Cheddar Cheese Scones Recipe is just what you need. Each scone bursts with the rich sharpness of cheddar, a hint of garlic and paprika for warmth, and that satisfyingly crisp exterior that gives way to a soft, tender crumb inside. These scones are a fantastic way to add a bit of homemade comfort to your day, whether it’s breakfast, a snack, or alongside your favorite soup or salad.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential to achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your cheddar cheese scones. Each component contributes something special, from the flaky butter to the tangy Greek yogurt that keeps things moist and tender.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and base for the scones, ensuring they hold together beautifully.
• Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the scones rise, creating a light and airy texture.
• Garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory depth that complements the cheese without overpowering it.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the richness in the scones.
• Paprika: Brings a warm, mild spice and a lovely color to the dough.
• Cold salted butter: Cut into cubes, it’s key to creating flaky layers and a tender crumb.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient that delivers that irresistible cheesy punch in every bite.
• Egg: Binds the dough and adds richness.
• Heavy cream: Moistens the dough, contributing to its tender, rich texture.
• Plain Greek yogurt: Introduces a slight tang and moisture without making the dough heavy.
• Honey: Just a touch to balance the savory flavors with a hint of sweetness.
• Salted butter (melted): Used for brushing the scones after baking, adding gloss and flavor.
• Fresh parsley: Minced and mixed with melted butter for a bright, herbaceous finish.

How to Make Cheddar Cheese Scones Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by lining your baking sheet with parchment paper and heating the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your scones will bake evenly and not stick, giving them that perfect golden bottom.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and paprika. Stir them well so the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the scone dough. This step sets the flavor foundation for your scones.

Step 3: Incorporate Butter

Use a pastry blender (or your fingers if you don’t have one) to cut the cold butter cubes into the flour mixture. The goal is to achieve small pea-sized bits of butter throughout, which create that coveted flaky texture when baked.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Sprinkle in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and mix it gently with the flour and butter. The cheese will melt as the scones bake, infusing each bite with deliciously gooey, savory goodness.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, heavy cream, Greek yogurt, and honey until smooth. This mixture not only helps bind the dough but also adds moisture and a touch of sweetness that balances the savory cheese wonderfully.

Step 6: Form the Dough

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir just until combined. Don’t overmix — a light hand ensures the scones stay tender and fluffy. Using your hands here is perfect to feel the dough come together without overworking it.

Step 7: Knead Gently and Shape

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead just one or two times to incorporate any stray flour. Roll it into a circle around one inch thick, prepping it for the scone shapes.

Step 8: Slice and Arrange

Using a sharp knife, cut the dough circle into eight triangular “pizza-style” wedges. Place them on the lined baking sheet about two inches apart to allow room for rising and browning.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden

Bake in your preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the bottoms are a beautiful golden brown. This baking time produces that irresistibly crisp exterior while keeping interiors soft and moist.

Step 10: Prepare the Herb Butter

While the scones bake, stir together the melted salted butter with freshly minced parsley. This gets ready to be brushed on the warm scones, infusing them with fragrant herb flavor.

Step 11: Butter and Finish

Immediately when the scones come out of the oven, generously brush each one with the parsley butter mixture. This step adds a lovely sheen, extra flavor, and a fresh finish that takes these cheddar cheese scones to the next level.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy

Plate your scones, maybe with a cup of tea or soup, and enjoy the delightful layers of flavor and texture. These warm, cheesy scones are truly comforting and perfect for sharing.

How to Serve Cheddar Cheese Scones Recipe

Garnishes

Brush with herb butter as described, but for a bit of flair, sprinkle extra chopped parsley or even a pinch of flaky sea salt on top right before serving. These small touches elevate the presentation and add subtle crunch and freshness.

Side Dishes

Cheddar cheese scones pair beautifully with hearty soups like tomato bisque or creamy potato soup. They also shine alongside a fresh green salad or charcuterie board, offering a satisfying cheesy bite that complements lighter dishes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the scones in half and adding a layer of smoked ham or roasted veggies for a quick savory sandwich. Alternatively, serve them with a smear of garlic butter or a drizzle of hot honey for a playful mix of flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your leftover scones will keep best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them fresh without drying out or losing their wonderful texture.

Freezing

If you want to save scones for longer, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature or heat them directly from frozen for a quick treat.

Reheating

Reheat scones in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 to 7 minutes to regain that just-baked warmth and crispness. Avoid using the microwave, which can make them rubbery and lose their delicate texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in this Cheddar Cheese Scones Recipe?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic and flavorful, you can swap in other cheeses like Gruyere, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack to customize the taste to your liking.

Is it important to use cold butter in the recipe?

Yes, cold butter is key to achieving flaky layers in your scones. If the butter melts too soon or mixes in completely, you lose that lovely crumbly texture, so keep it chilled until you cut it into the flour.

Can I make these scones vegan or dairy-free?

With some substitutions such as dairy-free butter, plant-based yogurt, and cheese alternatives, you could experiment with a vegan version, though the texture and flavor will differ slightly from the original cheddar cheese scones.

How do I know when the scones are done baking?

Look for a golden brown bottom and a firm, slightly springy top. The scones should feel set but still soft inside. If you tap the top, it shouldn’t feel doughy or overly soft.

What is the best way to mix the dough for these scones?

Using your hands to gently combine the wet and dry ingredients helps avoid overmixing. Overworking can develop gluten and make the scones tough instead of tender and flaky.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Cheddar Cheese Scones Recipe, it’s hard not to fall in love. They strike that beautiful balance between savory, buttery, and tender with just the right amount of cheesy punch. Whether for a lazy weekend breakfast, a snack with friends, or a cozy dinner side, these scones bring genuine comfort and joy to your table. I can’t wait for you to bake a batch and share the deliciousness with your loved ones!

Print