Are you craving a delicious and satisfying treat that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further than these cheddar cheese scones! Perfect for a quick breakfast, a delightful brunch addition, or even a comforting afternoon snack, these golden-brown beauties are packed with cheesy goodness and melt-in-your-mouth texture. This recipe is perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros, offering a fantastic opportunity to practice your homemade cooking skills and impress your friends and family with a truly delicious dish. Get ready to enjoy one of the best recipes you'll ever try!
Ingredients:
- 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 1/2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup milk (or buttermilk for a tangier flavor)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent, resulting in perfectly fluffy scones.
Step 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. Avoid overmixing; cold butter is key to creating flaky layers in your scones.
Step 3: Add the Cheese and Milk:
Stir in the grated cheddar cheese. Gradually add the milk, mixing gently until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough scones.
Step 4: Shape and 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.
Place the scones onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a little extra milk for a golden-brown finish.
Bake in a preheated oven at 450°F (232°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 5: Cool and Serve:
Let the scones cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy them warm, perhaps with a dollop of butter or your favorite jam. They're incredibly delicious!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Scones:
- Cold ingredients are crucial: Use cold butter and milk for the flakiest scones.
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing leads to tough scones. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Handle the dough gently: Avoid kneading the dough; simply pat it into shape.
- Bake at a high temperature: This helps the scones rise properly.
Variations:
- Add herbs: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a spicy kick.
- Different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites.
Nutritional Information (per scone, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal option, perfect for a quick dinner idea or a satisfying snack. It's a great example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. Enjoy your homemade cheddar cheese scones! They are a truly delightful addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. This is undoubtedly one of the best recipes for a simple yet impressive baked good.