Description
These easy cheese and Marmite scones are a deliciously savory treat, perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea. Combining mature cheddar cheese with the distinctive umami taste of Marmite, these scones are quick to prepare and bake to golden perfection with a soft, fluffy inside and a slightly crisp crust.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 500g (4 cups) self-raising flour
- 4 tsp baking powder
Wet Ingredients
- 100g (1/4 cup) cold cubed butter
- 350ml whole milk, approximately
- 150g (1 cup) grated mature cheddar cheese
- 2-3 tbsp Marmite
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 180°C fan or 200°C conventional (350°F/390°F) to get it ready for baking the scones.
- Rub butter into flour: Combine the cold cubed butter with the self-raising flour using your fingertips or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
- Add baking powder: Stir the baking powder thoroughly into the flour and butter mixture to ensure even rising.
- Incorporate cheese: Fold the grated mature cheddar cheese into the flour mixture, distributing it evenly throughout.
- Prepare Marmite milk: Warm the milk in a microwave-safe container for 30-60 seconds until just warm. Stir in 2 tablespoons of Marmite until fully dissolved.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Create a well in the flour mixture and pour in the Marmite milk, reserving 1 tablespoon for brushing. Use a butter knife to gently mix until nearly combined. Optionally drizzle the third tablespoon of Marmite over and fold in if using.
- Bring the dough together: Tip the mixture onto a floured surface and lightly use your fingertips to bring it into a cohesive dough, handling it as little as possible.
- Shape the dough: Pat the dough into a flat square or circle about an inch thick, preparing it for cutting.
- Cut into scones: Use a floured scone cutter or glass rim to cut the dough into scones without twisting the cutter to prevent misshapen scones. Reform and cut remaining dough as needed with minimal handling.
- Prepare for baking: Place the scones evenly spaced on a baking tray. Brush their tops with the reserved Marmite milk mixture and optionally sprinkle extra grated cheese on top.
- Bake: Bake in the middle of the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the bottoms are slightly browned and the scones sound hollow when tapped.
- Cool and serve: Transfer scones to a wire rack to cool slightly. They are best enjoyed warm but can be served once cooled.
Notes
- Do not twist the cutter or glass when cutting the scones to prevent uneven rising.
- Handle the dough as little as possible to keep the scones light and fluffy.
- Adjust the amount of Marmite to your taste preference; for stronger flavor, add more in step 6 and drizzle extra over the dough.
- Use mature cheddar for a richer, tangier flavor.
- These scones are best served warm, fresh from the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British