Savory Cheddar and Chive Scones

$- 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 tablespoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated - 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped - 2/3 cup whole milk - 1 large egg (for egg wash) To make my savory cheddar and chive scones, start with simple, fresh ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating flavor and texture. The all-purpose flour gives the scones a light base. It helps them rise and stay fluffy. The baking powder is essential for that lift. It makes the dough airy. Don't forget the salt and black pepper. These bring out the flavors in the cheese and chives. Using cold unsalted butter is vital. It creates a flaky texture. I cut the butter into cubes to make mixing easier. Sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich, tangy flavor. I love using fresh chives for a bright, onion-like taste. They add a nice pop of color too. The whole milk binds everything together. It keeps the scones moist. Lastly, a large egg will give the scones a beautiful golden finish when brushed on top. For the full recipe, check out the preparation steps that follow. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. In a large bowl, whisk together these dry ingredients: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 tablespoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 3. Now, add the cold butter cubes. Work the butter into the flour until it looks like coarse crumbs. 1. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and chopped chives. Make sure they mix well with the dough. 2. Slowly pour in the whole milk, mixing gently with a fork. Stop once the dough starts to come together. Avoid overworking it. 1. Move the dough to a floured surface and knead it gently a few times. Flatten it into a circle about one inch thick. 2. Cut the dough into 8 wedges or use a round cutter to shape the scones. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. 3. Beat the egg in a small bowl. Brush it over the tops of the scones for a golden finish. 4. Bake the scones for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool a bit before serving. This simple recipe creates delightful savory cheddar and chive scones. For more details, check the Full Recipe. To get great scones, start with cold butter. Cold butter keeps the scones light and fluffy. When you mix the cold butter into your flour, it should feel crumbly. This step is key for the right texture. Also, avoid over-mixing the dough. When the dough comes together, stop mixing. Over-mixing makes the scones tough. Gently knead the dough only a few times. This keeps them soft and tender. Adding herbs and spices can boost the taste of your scones. Besides chives, you can try adding rosemary or thyme for a fresh twist. A pinch of garlic powder can also add depth to the flavor. Choosing the right cheese variety matters too. Sharp cheddar gives a strong flavor, but you can change it up. Try Gouda for a creamier taste or Gruyere for a nutty flavor. This lets you customize your scones. Serve your warm scones on a rustic wooden board. This adds charm and makes the meal feel special. For a lovely touch, garnish with extra chives. You can also add a small bowl of butter on the side. This makes it easy for everyone to add their desired amount to their scones. Enjoy the delightful presentation as much as the flavor! {{image_2}} You can swap cheddar cheese with other tasty options. Gouda brings a creamy texture. Gruyere offers a nutty flavor. Both melt well and add depth. For chives, try fresh herbs like parsley or dill. Each herb brings its own charm. Basil adds a sweet note, while thyme gives a warm, earthy taste. Mix and match to find your favorite blend. Want to switch things up? Modify the recipe for sweet scones. Replace cheese and chives with fruits like blueberries or cranberries. Add a hint of cinnamon or vanilla for a sweet twist. Pair sweet scones with honey or jam. For savory options, serve with cheese or spreads. Both styles delight the taste buds and suit any occasion. For the full recipe, check the Savory Cheddar and Chive Scones section above. To keep your savory cheddar and chive scones fresh for 1-2 days, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. This method helps maintain moisture and flavor. If you want a crispy texture, leave them uncovered for a few hours. This allows some air to circulate and keeps the crust firm. If you want to save scones for later, you can freeze them. Wrap each scone in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can reheat them straight from the freezer. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes. This restores their freshness and warmth without drying them out. Enjoy with a pat of butter or your favorite spread! For the full recipe, make sure to check the earlier sections. Savory cheddar and chive scones pair well with many dishes. For brunch, you can serve them with: - Fresh fruit salad - Creamy scrambled eggs - A light salad with vinaigrette - Smoked salmon or ham - A dollop of butter or cream cheese These scones also shine at afternoon tea. Offer them with: - A selection of herbal teas - Sweet jams or spreads - A cheese platter with assorted cheeses Yes, you can use whole wheat flour. It will change the texture and flavor. Whole wheat is denser and has a nuttier taste. To adjust the recipe, consider these tips: - Use a mix of 1 cup whole wheat and 1 cup all-purpose flour for lighter scones. - Add a bit more milk to keep the dough moist. - Watch the baking time; whole wheat scones may need a few extra minutes. You can tell when the scones are done by looking for a few signs: - They should be golden brown on top. - A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. - The edges will feel firm to the touch. Let them cool slightly before serving for the best flavor. For the full recipe, check out the earlier sections. The blog post covered key steps for making delicious savory cheddar and chive scones. We discussed important ingredients, preparation steps, and helpful tips for texture and flavor. I shared fun variations to try and storage tips for keeping your scones fresh. These scones are easy to bake and perfect for any time. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and impressing friends and family with your baking skills!$

Savory Cheddar and Chive Scones

Indulge in the warm, cheesy goodness of savory cheddar and chive scones! Perfect for brunch or a cozy snack, these easy-to-follow scone recipes blend sharp cheddar and fresh chives for a delightful treat. With just a few simple ingredients and quick prep time, you can impress guests or elevate your everyday meals. Click through to discover how to make these delicious scones and enjoy a burst of flavor!

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Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated

1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped

2/3 cup whole milk

1 large egg (for egg wash)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and chopped chives until evenly distributed.

Pour in the milk gradually while gently mixing with a fork, until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together. Flatten the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick.

Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 wedges or use a round cutter to shape scones. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the tops of the scones for a golden finish.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the scones are golden brown and baked through.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 8

- Presentation Tips: Serve warm on a rustic wooden board, garnished with extra chives and a small bowl of butter on the side for a delightful brunch experience.