Are you craving a warm, comforting treat that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further than these cheddar chive scones! These delightful little pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a satisfying afternoon snack. Forget store-bought – homemade scones are incredibly rewarding, and this recipe is designed to be quick, easy, and foolproof, even for beginner bakers. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this delicious and satisfying recipe.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Scone Perfection
Step 1: Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents for perfectly fluffy scones.
Step 3: 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. Avoid overmixing; some pea-sized pieces of butter are ideal. Cold butter is key for flaky scones!
Step 4: Cheese & Chives: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives. The vibrant green of the chives adds a beautiful visual contrast and a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Step 5: Add Buttermilk: Gently pour in the buttermilk and stir until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing develops the gluten, resulting in tough scones.
Step 6: Shape & Bake: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat the dough into a 1-inch thick circle. Use a sharp knife or a biscuit cutter to cut the dough into 8 wedges.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the scones onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 8: Cool & Enjoy: Let the scones cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. Enjoy them warm, perhaps with a dollop of butter or your favorite jam.
Tips & Tricks for Scone Success
- Cold Ingredients: Using cold butter and buttermilk is crucial for creating flaky, tender scones.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten, leading to tough scones. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Quick Baking: High heat is essential for getting a lovely rise and a golden crust.
Variations: Get Creative in the Kitchen!
- Spicy Cheddar: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
- Cheese Variations: Try different cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
Nutritional Information (per scone, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 10-12g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
These cheddar chive scones are a delightful addition to any meal or snack time. They're a perfect example of how easy and rewarding homemade cooking can be. Enjoy!