These sharp cheddar and chive sourdough scones are a tasty treat! They’re flaky, cheesy, and have a lovely hint of chives that makes them special.
Enjoy them warm with a pat of butter, or just snack on them as is. Trust me, you’ll want to make a double batch—they disappear fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is the base for your scones. If you need a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture might be slightly different.
Baking powder and baking soda: Both help the scones rise. If you’re out of baking powder, you can use just baking soda but add a bit more acid to the recipe, like lemon juice or vinegar, to activate it.
Sharp cheddar cheese: This gives a rich, cheesy flavor. If you want to mix it up, try white cheddar or even a nice gouda for something a bit creamier. Vegan cheese can also work if you need a dairy-free option.
Chives: Fresh chives add a nice onion flavor. If you don’t have any, green onions or dill can be good substitutes, though the flavor will change a bit.
Sourdough starter: You can use either active or discard sourdough. If you’re lacking sourdough, plain yogurt can be used as a substitute, but adjust the moisture levels accordingly.
How Do I Cut In Butter for Flaky Scones?
Getting your butter mixed correctly is key to flaky scones! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with very cold butter. This helps it stay in small chunks.
- Use a pastry cutter or your hands to break the butter into the flour until it looks like coarse crumbs with small lumps. Don’t overdo it; you want to see some butter pieces!
This technique creates pockets of butter that melt during baking, leading to a light and flaky texture in your scones. Happy baking!
How to Make Sharp Cheddar And Chive Sourdough Scones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup (about 240ml) sourdough starter (discard or active, unfed)
- 1/3 cup (80ml) buttermilk
- 1 1/2 cups (about 170g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake. You’ll have delicious, cheesy scones ready in under 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will make sure your scones don’t stick!
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, baking soda, and black pepper. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning.
3. Cut in the Butter:
Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. You want some small chunks of butter for flaky scones!
4. Add Cheese and Chives:
Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and chopped chives. This is where the flavor really starts to come through!
5. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix together the sourdough starter and buttermilk until well combined. This mixture will provide moisture and flavor to the scones.
6. Bring It All Together:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined—don’t worry if it’s a bit sticky!
7. Shape the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick round. Be gentle to keep the dough light and fluffy!
8. Cut the Wedges:
Using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, cut the dough into 8 equal wedges. This will make it easy to separate them for baking.
9. Transfer to Baking Sheet:
Carefully transfer the wedges to the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them apart so they can rise nicely while baking.
10. Brush with Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the scones to give them a golden finish while baking.
11. Bake the Scones:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and cooked through. The aroma will be delicious!
12. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the scones cool slightly on a wire rack. Enjoy them warm, perfect for breakfast or as a savory snack!
These scones are a delightful combination of cheesy goodness and fresh chive flavor. Enjoy every bite! 🥐😊
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture might be denser. It’s best to use a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for the best results—try a 50/50 split!
How Should I Store Leftover Scones?
Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just reheat from frozen in a toaster oven or the microwave!
Can I Substitute the Cheddar Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you like, such as gouda, mozzarella, or even a pepper jack for a kick. Just adjust the amount according to your taste preference!
What If My Dough Is Too Sticky?
If your dough seems overly sticky, you can sprinkle a little more flour on your work surface and hands while shaping. Just be cautious not to add too much flour, as it can make the scones tough!
