Cheddar Chive Scones Recipe

Flour: The base of the scone, providing structure and texture.

Baking powder: Helps the scones rise and become fluffy.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Butter: Adds richness and helps create a flaky texture.

Cheddar cheese: Provides a sharp, savory flavor.

Chives: Adds a fresh, mild onion-like flavor.

Milk: Moistens the dough and helps bind the ingredients together.

Egg: Used for the egg wash to give the scones a golden brown finish.

When cutting the cold butter into the flour mixture, make sure to work quickly to keep the butter from melting. This ensures that the scones will have a flaky texture. Using a pastry cutter or even your fingertips, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving the right consistency in your dough.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the scones denser.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar for each teaspoon of baking powder needed.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a slightly different mineral profile and a more complex flavor.

• unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free option, but it will add a slight coconut flavor.

• cheddar cheese - Substitute with gruyere cheese: Gruyere offers a similar melting quality and a rich, nutty flavor.

• fresh chives - Substitute with green onions: Green onions provide a similar mild onion flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

• milk - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps to tenderize the scones.

• egg - Substitute with milk: For an egg wash, you can use milk to achieve a similar golden-brown finish on the scones.

• Allow the scones to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This ensures they don't become soggy from trapped steam.
• Place the cooled scones in an airtight container. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Store the container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• To freeze, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents freezer burn.
• Place the wrapped scones in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw scones at room temperature or in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a freshly baked taste, reheat thawed scones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual scones on a microwave-safe plate for 20-30 seconds, checking for desired warmth.
• Enjoy your cheddar chive scones with a pat of butter, a dollop of sour cream, or alongside a hearty bowl of soup.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cheddar chive scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them lightly with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning. Warm them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes or until they are heated through. This method helps retain the scones' crispy exterior and soft, flaky interior.

• Toaster Oven Method: If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones directly on the rack or on a small baking sheet. Heat for about 8-10 minutes. This method is quicker and works well for smaller batches.

• Microwave Method: For a faster option, place a scone on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Be cautious with this method as it can make the scones a bit chewy.

• Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Place the scones in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This method can help maintain a slightly crispy texture on the outside.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Place the scones in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't overcook. This method provides a quick and efficient way to reheat while keeping the scones crispy.

• Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) to bake the scones until golden brown.

• Baking sheet: Line with parchment paper to prevent the scones from sticking.

• Parchment paper: Use to line the baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

• Mixing bowl: Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt, and later mix in the butter, cheese, and chives.

• Pastry cutter: Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

• Measuring cups: Measure out the flour, milk, and other ingredients accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Measure the baking powder, salt, and chives precisely.

• Cheese grater: Shred the cheddar cheese for the scone mixture.

• Knife: Chop the fresh chives finely.

• Cutting board: Provide a surface to chop the chives.

• Rolling pin: (Optional) Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick round.

• Bench scraper: (Optional) Help in handling and cutting the dough into wedges.

• Pastry brush: Brush the beaten egg onto the scones for a golden finish.

• Cooling rack: Allow the scones to cool slightly after baking.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients like flour, baking powder, and cheddar cheese before starting. This will streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Instead of a pastry cutter, use a food processor to cut the butter into the flour mixture quickly.

Pre-chill butter: Keep the butter in the freezer for a few minutes before using. This makes it easier to cut into small cubes.

Prepare baking sheet: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper ahead of time to save a step later.

Batch work: Double the recipe and freeze extra scones for a quick bake later.