Savory Scones with Cheese

Name: Savory Scones with Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 scones
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 3/4 cup milk; 1 large egg

Highlighted under: Cheesy Goodness

I love baking savory scones, especially when they are loaded with cheese. There's something incredibly satisfying about pulling a batch of warm, cheesy scones out of the oven. The aroma fills the kitchen, and the first bite reveals a flaky texture with a rich, savory flavor that makes them perfect for breakfast or as a snack. These scones have become a favorite in my household, and I can’t wait to share this recipe with you. I hope you enjoy making these as much as I do!

Created by

Mia

Last updated on 2026-02-11T15:58:27.913Z

When I first tried making savory scones, I was amazed at how easy it was to combine simple ingredients into something so delightful. I experimented with different cheeses, and I found that sharp cheddar gives the scones a wonderful depth of flavor that is truly irresistible. You can even add herbs or spices to elevate the taste further.

I’ve learned that the key to achieving that perfect texture is to handle the dough as little as possible. This keeps the scones light and flaky. I recommend using cold butter and not over-mixing – this will ensure a beautiful rise and perfect crumb in each scone!

        Why You'll Love These Scones
        A perfect balance of savory and cheesy goodness
Flaky and tender texture that’s delightful to bite into
Versatile enough to pair with soups or enjoyed on their own

      

The Importance of Ingredients

When making savory scones, the quality of your ingredients can significantly affect the final outcome. For instance, using sharp cheddar cheese not only enhances the flavor but also adds a rich creaminess to the scones. Opt for fresh cheese; pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent the cheese from melting smoothly inside the scones.

Another vital ingredient is the butter. Cold, cubed butter is essential for a flaky texture, as it creates steam pockets during baking. You can substitute with cold unsalted margarine if you're looking for a dairy-free option, but keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor.

Technique Tips for Ultimate Flakiness

To achieve that perfect flaky texture, be careful not to overwork the dough. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until the flour disappears; the dough should still be slightly shaggy. When shaping the scones, handle them gently and use light pressure to pat them into shape rather than rolling them out, which can lead to a denser product.

Another tip is to ensure your oven is fully preheated before you bake the scones. If your oven temperature is too low, they might spread out instead of rising, resulting in flat and dense scones. You can use an oven thermometer to double-check that your oven reaches the desired temperature.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These savory scones are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warm and slightly crispy again.

For a delightful serving variation, try pairing these scones with a simple garlic herb butter or even a spicy tomato jam for a more adventurous flavor profile. They can also be served alongside soups or salads, making them a versatile option for any meal.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious savory scones!

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
3/4 cup milk
1 large egg

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your savory scones:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Cut in the butter

Add the cold butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Add cheese

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.

Combine wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until well combined.

Mix dough

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.

Shape the scones

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick and cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter.

Bake

Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Cool and serve

Let the scones cool slightly before serving warm, slathered with butter or your favorite spread.

Enjoy your freshly baked savory scones!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding diced herbs like chives or rosemary into the dough before baking.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your scones come out too dry, it may be a sign that you've overmixed your dough or used too much flour. Make sure to measure your flour correctly—using a kitchen scale is a great way to avoid this issue. A hydrated dough is key for a tender, flaky scone.

On the other hand, if they seem too wet and sticky, you can add a little extra flour to help manage the texture. Always add flour gradually until the dough holds together well without being overly dry.

Make-Ahead Options

You can prepare the dough ahead of time and form the scones, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time on busy mornings but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the cheese's taste.

Freezing is another fantastic option. Form the scones and lay them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer for an additional 5 minutes, making for a quick and delicious breakfast treat.

Creative Variations

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Gouda and Gruyère are excellent alternatives if you're looking to switch things up, each imparting a unique flavor profile. For an extra savory touch, consider adding cooked bacon bits or chopped herbs like chives or rosemary to the dough.

If you'd like to introduce a hint of sweetness, you could add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. This tiny amount can beautifully balance the richness of the cheese without overpowering the savory aspect of the scones.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the scones?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked scones! Just freeze them on a baking sheet and once solid, transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is a great choice for its flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gouda or Parmesan for different tastes.

→ How do I store leftover scones?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a vegan alternative and use plant-based milk. You can also omit the egg or replace it with a flaxseed egg.