Cheddar Chive Savory Scones: The Ultimate Recipe and Baking Guide

Cheddar Chive Savory Scones: Prepare to elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these incredibly flavorful and surprisingly easy-to-make treats! Forget those overly sweet scones; we’re diving headfirst into a world of cheesy, herby goodness that will have everyone begging for more. Have you ever craved something warm, comforting, and bursting with savory flavor? These scones are the answer.

While the exact origins of scones are debated, they’ve been a beloved part of British baking for centuries. Originally made with oats and baked on a griddle, scones have evolved into countless variations, both sweet and savory. My take on the classic scone, these Cheddar Chive Savory Scones, are a delightful twist that perfectly complements a cozy morning or a sophisticated afternoon tea.

What makes these scones so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures – a slightly crisp exterior gives way to a soft, tender crumb. The sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully throughout, while the fresh chives add a bright, herbaceous note. They’re incredibly satisfying, easy to customize with your favorite cheeses and herbs, and perfect served warm with a dollop of butter or a smear of cream cheese. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make, meaning you can enjoy freshly baked scones any day of the week!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• 3/4 cup (3 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives
• 3/4 cup buttermilk, cold
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten, for egg wash
• Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)

Preparing the Dough:

1. Combine the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. This ensures a consistent rise and flavor throughout the scones.
2. Cut in the butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should be in small pieces, about the size of peas. This step is crucial for creating flaky scones. The cold butter will create pockets of steam as it bakes, resulting in a light and airy texture. If you’re using your fingertips, work quickly to prevent the butter from melting.
3. Incorporate the cheese and chives: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives. Distribute them evenly throughout the flour and butter mixture. The cheese adds a wonderful savory flavor and melty texture, while the chives provide a fresh, herbaceous note.
4. Add the buttermilk: Gradually pour in the cold buttermilk, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough. Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough scones. The dough should be slightly shaggy and sticky. It’s okay if there are some dry patches; they will come together as you shape the scones.
5. Turn out the dough: Lightly flour a clean work surface. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface. Gently pat the dough into a 1-inch thick circle. Avoid kneading the dough, as this will make the scones tough.

Shaping and Cutting the Scones:

1. Cut the scones: Using a sharp knife or a 2-inch round biscuit cutter, cut out the scones. If using a knife, cut the circle into 8 wedges. If using a biscuit cutter, press straight down and avoid twisting, as twisting can seal the edges and prevent the scones from rising properly.
2. Re-roll scraps (optional): Gently gather the scraps of dough and pat them back into a 1-inch thick circle. Cut out more scones. Keep in mind that these scones may not be as tender as the first batch, as the dough has been worked more.
3. Arrange on baking sheet: Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave about 1 inch of space between each scone. The parchment paper will prevent the scones from sticking to the baking sheet and make cleanup easier.
4. Egg wash and sprinkle: Brush the tops of the scones with the lightly beaten egg. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color. Sprinkle the tops with coarse sea salt, if desired. The sea salt adds a nice salty crunch that complements the savory flavors of the cheese and chives.

Baking the Scones:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking the scones. A hot oven is essential for achieving a good rise and a golden-brown crust.
2. Bake the scones: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the scones and adjust the baking time as needed.
3. Cool slightly: Let the scones cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent them from sticking to the baking sheet and allow them to cool evenly.

Serving and Storing:

1. Serve warm: Serve the scones warm, preferably with butter or cream cheese. They are also delicious on their own. These scones are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
2. Reheating: To reheat, wrap the scones in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a few seconds, but they may become slightly softer.
3. Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the scones. Let them cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for a few hours or overnight. Reheat as directed above. You can also freeze the unbaked scones. Place the cut scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Tips for Perfect Scones:

• Use cold ingredients: Cold butter and buttermilk are essential for creating flaky scones. The cold butter will create pockets of steam as it bakes, resulting in a light and airy texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough scones. Mix the dough until just combined.
• Handle the dough gently: Avoid kneading the dough, as this will also make the scones tough. Gently pat the dough into a circle and cut out the scones.
• Bake in a hot oven: A hot oven is essential for achieving a good rise and a golden-brown crust.
• Don’t twist the cutter: When using a biscuit cutter, press straight down and avoid twisting, as twisting can seal the edges and prevent the scones from rising properly.

Variations:

• Add different cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Parmesan, or pepper jack.
• Add different herbs: Try adding other herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or sage.
• Add bacon or ham: For a heartier scone, add cooked and crumbled bacon or ham.
• Make them sweet: Omit the cheese and chives and add 1/4 cup of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a sweet scone. You can also add dried fruit, such as cranberries or raisins.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Cheddar Chive Savory Scones are truly a game-changer for breakfast, brunch, or even a delightful afternoon snack. I know, I know, I might be biased, but trust me on this one. The combination of sharp cheddar, fresh chives, and that perfectly crumbly texture is simply irresistible. They’re so much more exciting than your average biscuit and far easier to whip up than you might think.

But why are these scones a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible flavor profile, they’re incredibly versatile. They’re fantastic warm, straight from the oven, slathered with a little butter (or even better, some cream cheese!). But they’re also delicious at room temperature, making them perfect for packing in a picnic basket or taking to a potluck. And let’s not forget how impressive they look! These scones are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving them to family, friends, or even just yourself (because you deserve it!).

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to serving these Cheddar Chive Savory Scones. For a complete breakfast, try pairing them with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and a side of fresh fruit. They’re also amazing alongside a bowl of hearty soup or chili for a comforting lunch. And for a truly decadent treat, try splitting one open and topping it with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and a sprinkle of dill.

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations you might want to try:

* Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dough for a little kick.
* Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley.
* Cheese, please!: Swap out the cheddar for Gruyere, Parmesan, or even a blend of cheeses.
* Add some veggies: Fold in some cooked bacon bits, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms.
* Sweet and Savory: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can add a delightful sweet and savory twist.

I’ve personally tried all of these variations, and they’re all delicious in their own way. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors until you find your perfect combination. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s so forgiving and adaptable.

I truly believe that everyone should have a go-to savory scone recipe, and this one is definitely mine. It’s quick, easy, and always a hit. So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake up a batch of these amazing Cheddar Chive Savory Scones.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, please, please, please come back and let me know what you think. Share your photos, your variations, and your experiences in the comments below. I can’t wait to hear all about your scone-baking adventures! Happy baking!