There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of freshly baked scones wafting through the kitchen, especially when cheese is involved. These Extra Cheesy Savoury Scones are my go-to when I want to impress family and friends while still keeping things effortless. With a crisp cheese crust and a fluffy interior that’s simply bursting with flavor, they transform even the simplest brunch into a delightful gathering.
In under 30 minutes, you can whip up these savory delights, making them perfect for a quick breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or a delicious complement to soups. The satisfaction of creating such cheesy goodness in your own kitchen is simply unmatched! Ready to elevate your scone game? Let’s get baking!
Why are cheese scones so irresistible?
Irresistible Flavors: These cheese scones are not just any baked good; they bring a delightful burst of cheesy flavor in every bite.
Quick Preparation: With a cooking time of under 30 minutes, they fit perfectly into your busy lifestyle.
Versatile Treat: Whether served as a fancy brunch item or a comforting snack, they are sure to impress your guests.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves a cheesy treat! Serve them at parties or family gatherings, and watch them disappear fast.
Easy to Make: Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this simple recipe will yield bakery-quality scones that taste incredible.
So why wait? Elevate your baking with these delicious scones that are bound to be a hit!
Cheese Scones Ingredients
For the Dough
• Plain Flour (All-Purpose Flour) – Provides structure; you can substitute with gluten-free flour if desired.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Adds rich cheesy flavor; swap with any good melting cheese like Swiss or Gruyere, but avoid mozzarella for its mild taste.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for fluffiness; ensure it’s freshly measured for the best rise.
• Cooking Salt/Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor; halve the amount if using table salt, and adjust for sea salt flakes.
• Unsalted Butter – Contributes to tenderness and flakiness; use cold butter cut into small pieces for optimal texture.
• Milk (Full Fat) – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture; low-fat milk can also work as a substitute.
For the Topping
• Extra Shredded Cheese (for topping) – Enhances that irresistible cheesy crust we all love in cheese scones.
For Spreading
• Butter (for spreading) – Optional but adds a delicious layer of flavor when served warm.
How to Make Cheese Scones
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F or 180°C fan-forced). This ensures your cheese scones bake evenly and become beautifully golden.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a food processor, pulse the plain flour, baking powder, and salt until they’re well mixed. This helps in creating a uniform texture throughout your scones.
- Add Butter: Scatter in the cold, cubed unsalted butter and pulse until the largest pieces resemble the size of peas. This step is crucial for achieving that lovely flaky texture.
- Incorporate Cheese: Next, add the shredded cheese and pulse just until combined. You want those cheesy bits distributed without breaking them down too much.
- Mix in Milk: Gently pour in the milk while pulsing until the mixture begins to clump but still looks shaggy. This signifies that your dough is adequately moistened without being overmixed.
- Shape Dough: Transfer the mixture onto parchment paper and form it into a disc about 3cm thick. Brush the top with milk, sprinkle with extra shredded cheese, and cut into 6 wedges for easy baking.
- Bake: Place the wedges on a baking tray, ensuring they are spaced apart. Bake for 20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and have a lovely crust.
- Cool Slightly: After removing the scones from the oven, let them cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This short wait makes them even more enjoyable!
Optional: Serve warm with a smear of butter for an extra touch of richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Extra Cheesy Savoury Scones are perfect for busy home cooks who love meal prep! You can make the dough up to 24 hours ahead; simply follow the steps until shaping the dough. Wrap the formed disc tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy your scones, just preheat your oven, cut the wedges, and bake them as directed. They’ll turn out just as fluffy and flavorful, saving you valuable time during those hectic mornings! For an even easier option, bake the scones in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave or oven to restore their delicious texture before serving.
How to Store and Freeze Cheese Scones
Room Temperature: Store freshly baked cheese scones at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container to keep them from drying out.
Fridge: If you want to extend their life, cheese scones can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Enjoy them warmed up for the best texture!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cheese scones by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave frozen scones for about 30 seconds until warmed through, or place them in a 180°C (350°F) oven for about 10-15 minutes for that freshly baked feel.
What to Serve with Extra Cheesy Savoury Scones?
These delightful scones are perfect to elevate any meal with their cheesy, comforting goodness.
- Creamy Tomato Soup: A classic pairing, the rich acidity of the soup perfectly complements the cheesy scones, creating a warm and delightful experience.
- Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens and vibrant vegetables add a refreshing crunch that balances the scones’ richness. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for zing!
- Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Dripping these scones in a blend of olive oil infused with herbs enhances their savory flavor and adds a luxurious touch.
- Savory Hummus: The creaminess of hummus, especially with flavors like roasted red pepper or garlic, contrasts beautifully with the crispy cheese crust of the scones.
- Butter and Jam: Spread a pat of fresh butter atop the warm scones and follow with your favorite fruit jam for a sweet twist — it’s comfort food at its best!
- Selection of Cheeses: A cheese platter featuring sharp, tangy varieties alongside your scones allows for a delightful multi-textural cheese experience.
- Sparkling Water: For a refreshing drink, sparkling water with a twist of lime or lemon cleanses the palate between savory bites, enhancing every flavor sensation.
- Chili Con Carne: Pairing your cheesy scones with a hearty bowl of chili provides a satisfying meal, perfect for cozy nights in.
- Homemade Guacamole: Creamy avocados with zesty lime juice and cilantro create a dip that pairs harmoniously with the cheesy texture of the scones.
- Chocolate Brownies: For dessert, warm, fudgy brownies offer a sweet ending that plays nicely against the savory scones.
Cheese Scones Variations
Explore these delightful twists to customize your cheese scones and bring unique flavors to every batch!
- Herb-Infused: Add chopped fresh herbs like chives or rosemary for a fragrant touch.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños for a scone with a delightful heat that complements the cheese.
- Smoked Cheese: Use smoked Gouda or cheddar for a deep, rich flavor profile that adds complexity to your scones.
- Savory Add-Ins: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or cooked bacon for an extra layer of deliciousness; they’ll elevate your scone experience!
- Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or walnuts into the mixture for a delightful crunch and added texture.
- Cheesy Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or blue cheese for unique tastes that will surprise your palate.
- Sweet Twist: Add a touch of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a sweet and savory scone that pairs well with tea or coffee.
- Vegetable Boost: Fold in finely chopped spinach or grated zucchini for added nutrition and moisture while keeping it cheesy!
Expert Tips for Cheese Scones
- Use Cold Butter: Ensure your unsalted butter is cold. It creates flaky layers in cheese scones, preventing them from becoming dense.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined; overworking the dough can lead to tough scones. Aim for light and fluffy textures!
- Cheese Selection: While cheddar is fantastic, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gruyere for a richer flavor. Just remember to avoid bland options like mozzarella.
- Evenly Shape Dough: When forming your dough disc, make sure it’s an even thickness. This ensures that your cheese scones bake uniformly.
- Storage Tips: After baking, keep leftovers in an airtight container. They can last for up to 3 days but are best enjoyed warm!
Extra Cheesy Savoury Scones Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my cheese is ripe enough for the scones?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use cheese that is fresh and has a good age. Aged cheddar or Gruyere works beautifully, providing a robust flavor. Avoid using overly soft cheeses like mozzarella since they lack strong flavor, and stick to those that have a rich, sharp taste.
How should I store leftover cheese scones?
Very simple! Store your leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you prefer them chilled, the refrigerator can extend their life for another day or two, but make sure to enjoy them warmed for that delightful texture!
Can I freeze these cheese scones? If so, how?
The more the merrier! Freezing is a great option. To freeze, first let the scones cool completely. Then, wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer zip-lock bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, simply microwave them for about 30 seconds or bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
What should I do if my cheese scones didn’t rise properly?
If your scones didn’t rise as expected, there could be a few reasons. First, ensure your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents might not do their job well. Overmixing the dough can also make your scones dense, so mix just until combined. Finally, be careful to properly shape the dough into a uniform disc, as uneven thickness can affect baking.
Are these cheese scones safe for pets?
Many cheeses are safe for dogs in small amounts, but it’s best to keep these cheese scones to yourself. Ingredients like salt and baking powder can be harmful to pets, so it’s wise to avoid giving them any scone leftovers.
Can I use dairy-free products in this cheese scone recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re following a dairy-free diet, you can substitute the shredded cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based butter and milk. Just be sure to choose brands with good flavor profiles to achieve a satisfying taste in your scones!
Cheese Scones: Fluffy Bites of Cheesy Heaven in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F or 180°C fan-forced) to ensure even baking.
- In a food processor, pulse the plain flour, baking powder, and salt until well mixed.
- Scatter in the cold, cubed unsalted butter and pulse until the largest pieces resemble the size of peas.
- Add the shredded cheese and pulse just until combined, ensuring cheesy bits are not broken down too much.
- Gently pour in the milk while pulsing until the mixture begins to clump but still looks shaggy.
- Transfer the mixture onto parchment paper and form it into a disc about 3cm thick. Brush the top with milk and sprinkle with extra shredded cheese. Cut into 6 wedges.
- Place the wedges on a baking tray, spaced apart. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let them cool for about 5 minutes before serving to enhance enjoyment!
