These ham and cheese scones are a delightful twist on the classic scone, perfect for breakfast or a savory snack. The combination of diced ham and shredded cheddar cheese creates a rich, flavorful treat that pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these scones are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in your pantry or refrigerator. However, if you don't usually keep diced ham or shredded cheddar cheese on hand, you may need to pick these up at the supermarket. Look for high-quality ham and cheddar cheese to ensure the best flavor in your scones.
Ingredients For Ham And Cheese Scones Recipe
Flour: The base of the scone, providing structure and texture.
Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the scones rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the scones.
Butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
Diced ham: Provides a savory, meaty flavor to the scones.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, cheesy taste that complements the ham.
Milk: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture to the dough.
Technique Tip for Perfect Scones
When cutting in the cold butter for the scones, use a pastry cutter or two knives to ensure the butter is evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture. This will create small pockets of butter that melt during baking, resulting in a flaky and tender texture.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, though the texture may be slightly 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: Provides a slightly different mineral content and flavor profile.
cold butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Offers a dairy-free option with a subtle coconut flavor, though it may alter the texture slightly.
diced ham - Substitute with diced turkey: Provides a leaner meat option with a similar texture and flavor.
shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers a milder flavor and a different melting quality.
milk - Substitute with buttermilk: Adds a tangy flavor and helps to tenderize the dough, resulting in a softer scone.
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How to Store or Freeze These Scones
Allow the scones to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make them soggy.
For short-term storage, place the scones in an airtight container. They will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days.
If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate the scones in an airtight container. They will remain fresh for up to a week.
To freeze, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap. This helps to maintain their texture and flavor.
Place the wrapped scones in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag with the date to keep track of their freshness.
The scones can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or in the refrigerator overnight.
For a freshly baked taste, reheat the scones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will restore their delightful crispness.
If you're in a hurry, you can also microwave the scones for 20-30 seconds, though this may not yield the same crispy exterior.
To add a touch of freshness, consider brushing the tops of the reheated scones with a bit of melted butter or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese before serving.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the ham and cheese scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until they are heated through.
For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place the scones on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it 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 are warming evenly.
To reheat on the stovetop, use a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Place the scones in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure both sides are warmed.
For a toaster oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones directly on the rack or on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.
If you prefer a steam method, place a steaming basket over a pot of simmering water. Arrange the scones in the basket, cover, and steam for about 5-7 minutes. This method helps retain moisture and keeps the scones soft.
Essential Tools for This Recipe
Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) to bake the scones until golden brown.
Mixing bowl: Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt, and later mix in the ham and cheese.
Pastry cutter: Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Measuring cups: Measure out the flour, milk, and other ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: Measure the baking powder and salt precisely.
Knife: Dice the ham into small pieces.
Cheese grater: Shred the cheddar cheese.
Wooden spoon: Stir in the ham, cheese, and milk into the flour mixture.
Floured surface: Turn the dough onto this surface to knead it gently.
Rolling pin: Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick.
Baking sheet: Place the wedges on this sheet for baking.
Parchment paper: Line the baking sheet to prevent the scones from sticking.
Knife or dough cutter: Cut the dough into 8 wedges.
Cooling rack: Allow the scones to cool slightly after baking.
Time-Saving Tips for Making These Scones
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all flour, baking powder, and salt before starting to streamline the process.
Use a food processor: Quickly cut in the cold butter by pulsing it with the dry ingredients in a food processor.
Pre-dice ham: Buy pre-diced ham to save chopping time.
Pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to avoid grating.
Batch preparation: Double the recipe and freeze extra scones for a quick future snack.
Silicone baking mat: Use a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and even baking.
Quick kneading: Knead the dough just enough to combine, avoiding overworking it.
Ham And Cheese Scones
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Baking powder
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ½ cup Cold butter, cubed
- 1 cup Diced ham
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
- ¾ cup Milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the diced ham and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Gradually add milk, stirring until just combined.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently.
- Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick and cut into 8 wedges.
- Place the wedges on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Nutritional Value
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