Description
Delicious bacon cheddar chive scones perfect for any occasion, featuring a flaky texture and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 2.5 tsp baking powder
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 9 tbsp (127.5g) cold salted butter
- 8 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup (113g) grated cheddar cheese, sharp
- 1/4 cup (about 15g) fresh chives, diced
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 tbsp milk or heavy cream, for brushing
- Flaky sea salt, for finishing
Instructions
- Step 1: In a measuring cup, whisk together 1 large egg and 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream. Place this mixture in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the dry ingredients. Chilling helps achieve a lighter texture.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, mix 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour, 2.5 teaspoons baking powder, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Step 3: Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut 9 tablespoons cold salted butter into the dry mixture until you achieve pea-sized crumbs. The butter should be cold to create flaky layers during baking.
- Step 4: Gently fold in 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup diced fresh chives, and 8 slices chopped cooked bacon until just combined. Avoid overmixing; leave a bit of flour visible for ideal texture.
- Step 5: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently pat it into a rectangle. Cut the dough into triangles or rounds as preferred. Chill the shaped dough in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to help maintain its shape during baking.
- Step 6: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Brush the tops of the chilled scones with 1 tablespoon of milk or heavy cream to promote a golden crust. Bake on a baking sheet for 25 to 30 minutes, or until lightly browned and scones sound hollow when tapped. If scones look pale mid-bake, brush again with milk or cream.
- Step 7: Remove scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. This allows the interior to set and enhances flavor.
Notes
- Room Temperature: Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain texture and flavor.
- Refrigeration: Place scones in an airtight container and refrigerate up to 5 days. Reheat gently to restore taste.
- Freezing: Wrap scones tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, place in a freezer container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- If dough feels too sticky, add 1-2 tablespoons of flour gradually while mixing to achieve the right consistency without overworking it.
- Make sure baking powder is fresh and used in the full amount of 2.5 teaspoons to ensure proper rise.
- Butter pieces should be no larger than pea-sized when cutting into flour for a flaky texture.
- If wet spots appear on scones after baking, extend the baking time by 2-3 minutes until dry and golden.
- Gently warm scones in a low oven or microwave before serving to enhance freshness and flavor.
- Serve these scones alongside a fresh garden salad or a bowl of hearty vegetable soup. Pair with savory dips such as spinach dip or roasted red pepper hummus. Use as a base for brunch sliders or mini sandwiches with cream cheese and smoked salmon. Add to a charcuterie board with cheeses, olives, crackers, or a basket of fresh fruit. Top with garlic herb butter, whipped cream cheese spread, extra chives, or a pinch of smoked paprika for added flavor.
- Substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- Use Monterey Jack cheese for a milder taste profile.
- Swap fresh chives with green onions if chives are unavailable.
- For a gluten-free version, use a measure-for-measure gluten-free flour blend and ensure baking powder is gluten-free.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with coconut oil and heavy cream with milk, noting texture changes.
- Choose thick-cut bacon and cook until crispy for extra crunch.
- Grate sharp cheddar cheese yourself for better melting.
- Use fresh, vibrant green chives for brightness and slight onion flavor.
- Use good-quality all-purpose flour; avoid self-rising flour unless adjusting baking powder.
- Keep butter cold before mixing to ensure flaky scones.
- Honey or maple syrup can be added for slight sweetness if desired (amount not included in original recipe).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone
- Calories: Not provided
- Sugar: Not provided
- Sodium: Not provided
- Fat: Not provided
- Saturated Fat: Not provided
- Unsaturated Fat: Not provided
- Trans Fat: Not provided
- Carbohydrates: Not provided
- Fiber: Not provided
- Protein: Not provided
- Cholesterol: Not provided