Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with our delectable Savory Scones recipe. Bursting with flavor from sharp cheddar cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh green onions, these scones are the perfect addition to any brunch, tea party, or afternoon snack. Join us as we embark on a culinary adventure and learn how to create scones that are as impressive as they are delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup diced sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat your 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.
- Add the chilled diced butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, diced sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped green onions until evenly distributed.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Use a wooden spoon or rubber spatula to gently mix until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together.
- Pat the dough into a circle or rectangle about 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut the dough into wedges or squares, depending on your preference.
- Place the scones onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
- Brush the tops of the scones with the beaten egg to give them a golden brown finish when baked.
- Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Remove the scones from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations
- For a flakier texture, handle the dough as little as possible and avoid overworking it.
- Feel free to customize the savory scones by adding other ingredients such as cooked bacon, chopped herbs, or different types of cheese.
- Serve the scones warm with butter or cream cheese, or pair them with a bowl of soup or salad for a complete meal.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk? A: Yes, you can substitute regular milk for buttermilk in this recipe. However, buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps tenderize the dough, so the texture and taste may vary slightly.
Q: Can I freeze the scone dough to bake later? A: Yes, you can freeze the shaped scone dough on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag for long-term storage. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen scones on a baking sheet and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: How should I store leftover scones? A: Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. You can also freeze the baked scones for longer storage and reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make a few simple substitutions to create a version of Savory Scones that fits your dietary needs:
- Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for a low-carb option.
- Use diced bell peppers or cooked spinach instead of sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrients.
- Substitute full-fat Greek yogurt or sour cream for buttermilk to reduce the carb content.
With these substitutions, you can enjoy the savory goodness of scones while staying within your dietary goals.
Savory scones are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their irresistible combination of cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and green onions, these scones are sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Whether served as part of a brunch spread or enjoyed on their own as a savory snack, these homemade scones are bound to become a new favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the delicious flavors of homemade savory scones. Your taste buds will thank you!