Description
These Honey Cheddar Scones combine the perfect balance of savory and sweet with sharp cheddar cheese and a drizzle of honey. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they make a delightful breakfast treat or snack, finished with a buttery crust and a hint of cracked black pepper for added warmth.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
Butter and Cheese
- 3/4 cups cold butter, cut into pieces
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup honey
- Melted butter for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients and Cut in Butter: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cracked black pepper. Using your fingers, a fork, or a pastry blender, cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it forms coarse crumbs resembling small peas, which will give the scones their tender texture.
- Add Cheese and Wet Ingredients: Stir in the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese into the flour mixture. Next, add the buttermilk and honey. Mix gently with a spoon until the dough comes together, then use your hands to bring it fully together without overworking.
- Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently just a few times to combine. Divide the dough into halves or thirds, then pat each portion into a 5-inch round circle. This shaping will create the traditional scone appearance.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops generously with melted butter and sprinkle with a little additional cracked black pepper for flavor. Cut each round into 4 or 6 wedges using a knife or biscuit cutter for individual scones.
- Bake: Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes or until the tops are lightly golden and cooked through.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven and if desired, drizzle with extra honey for a sweet finish. Serve the scones warm immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use cold butter to achieve tender, flaky scones.
- Grate the cheddar cheese fresh for the best flavor and texture integration.
- Knead the dough gently and minimally to avoid tough scones.
- Adjust the amount of honey to taste, either mixing it into the dough or drizzling on top after baking.
- For a spicier kick, add more cracked black pepper.
- Store leftover scones in an airtight container and reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
