These cheddar chive scones are a delightful savory twist on the classic scone. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side to your favorite soup, they are packed with the sharp flavor of cheddar cheese and the fresh, mild bite of chives. The golden, flaky texture makes them irresistible.
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, you might need to pick up fresh chives and cheddar cheese if you don't already have them. Fresh chives can be found in the produce section, and it's best to use a good quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor. Make sure to get unsalted butter as well.
Ingredients For 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.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
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.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
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.
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How to Store or Freeze Your 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.
How to Reheat Leftovers
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.
Essential Tools for This Recipe
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.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
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.
Cheddar Chive Scones
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter cut into small cubes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 egg beaten, for egg wash
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold butter cubes and cut into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese and chives.
- Gradually add the milk, mixing until just combined.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently. Pat into a 1-inch thick round and cut into 8 wedges.
- Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet and brush with the beaten egg.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.
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