Tips:
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Use strong cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor.
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You can add chopped chives, spring onions, or even crumbled bacon to the dough for variations.
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These scones are best eaten the same day but can be reheated or frozen for later.
- Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan) / 425°F / Gas mark 7. Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, salt, mustard powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). These spices add a subtle warmth and depth of flavor, but feel free to skip them if you prefer a milder taste.
- Rub in the Butter
Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. This step is crucial for creating that light, flaky texture.
- Add the Cheese
Stir in the grated cheese, reserving a little for the topping. Mix well to evenly distribute the cheese throughout the dough.
- Add the Milk
Gradually pour in the milk, mixing with a butter knife or your hands until the dough comes together. It should be soft but not sticky. Add a splash more milk if it's too dry.
- Shape the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Gently knead just 2-3 times to bring it together—don’t overwork it. Pat or roll it out to about 2.5 cm (1 inch) thick.
- Cut the Scones
Use a round cutter (about 5 cm/2 inches wide) to cut out scones. Press straight down—don’t twist the cutter, or it may affect the rise. Gather the scraps, reshape, and cut again.
- Prepare for Baking
Place the scones on your prepared tray. Brush the tops with a little milk for a golden crust and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of each scone.
- Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the scones are risen and golden brown. They should smell delightfully cheesy and have a light crust.
- Cool & Serve
Remove the scones from the oven and cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm, plain or with a dab of butter or cream cheese.
Notes:
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Based on standard ingredients: all-purpose flour, cheddar cheese, whole milk, and butter.
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Exact values may vary based on the cheese used, portion size, and optional ingredients like mustard or cayenne.
- Calories:210 kcal
- Cholesterol:30 mg
- Total Fat:11 g
- Sodium:280 mg
- Carbohydrates:22 g
- Protein:6 g
- Calcium:150 mg
- Iron:1.1 mg
Cheese Scones are golden, fluffy, and filled with rich cheddar flavor—a delicious savory twist on the traditional British scone. Unlike the sweet variety, these scones skip the jam and cream and bring in sharp cheese, crisp edges, and soft, buttery centers.
Perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or even as a side dish, cheese scones are simple to prepare but deliver big on taste. With just flour, butter, milk, and cheese, they’re quick to make and ideal for beginner bakers or seasoned cooks looking for a hearty bite.
Why Cheese Scones Are So Popular
Whether you’re using up leftover cheese or planning a picnic, cheese scones are incredibly versatile. Sharp cheddar is the classic choice, but you can experiment with your favorite cheeses. Add-ins like mustard powder, chives, or cayenne give an extra flavor punch.
These scones pair well with:
- Soups and stews
- Fried or poached eggs
- Salads and veggie sides
Serve them warm with butter or eat them cold on the go. They also freeze beautifully—great for meal prep or surprise guests.
Are Cheese Scones Healthy?
Like most baked goods, cheese scones are best in moderation. But they do come with some surprising benefits when made thoughtfully.
✅ Health Benefits
- Good Source of Calcium & Protein
Cheese and milk offer nutrients that support bones and muscle health. - Energy-Rich Snack
Carbs and fats combine to give lasting energy—ideal for active lifestyles. - No Added Sugar
Unlike sweet scones, these won’t spike blood sugar levels.
⚠️ Health Considerations
- Saturated Fat
Butter and full-fat cheese contribute to high saturated fat. Use low-fat options for a lighter version. - High in Sodium
Cheese naturally contains salt, so reduce added salt where possible. - Refined Flour
Swap some white flour with whole wheat to add fiber and nutrients.
Make Them Healthier
You don’t have to give up cheesy comfort to eat better. Small tweaks can make a difference:
- Use part-skim cheese or low-fat varieties.
- Replace some butter with Greek yogurt.
- Mix in whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Enjoy them with a bowl of soup or a fresh green salad for a balanced, wholesome meal.
Final Thoughts on This Savory Treat
Cheese Scones are the ultimate quick-bake comfort food. With a crispy top, melty cheese inside, and a soft, fluffy bite, they’re always a crowd favorite. Whether you eat them fresh from the oven or freeze them for later, these savory scones are perfect for any time of day.
With smart ingredient swaps, you can enjoy them more often and feel good about it too. From teatime tables to lunchboxes, cheese scones deserve a spot in every home baker’s rotation.
