Savory Scones Recipe – Perfect for Any Meal

You might think scones are just for sweet treats, but savory scones can enhance your meals in unexpected ways. These versatile baked goods blend well with a variety of dishes, making them a smart choice for any occasion. Imagine enjoying them fresh out of the oven alongside your favorite soup or a vibrant salad. Their rich flavor and delightful texture might just surprise you. Curious about how to create your own perfect batch that complements your meals seamlessly? Let’s investigate the history and a straightforward recipe that will have you baking like a pro.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Savory scones offer a delightful twist that’ll improve your snack game. They’re incredibly versatile, making them perfect for pairing with soups or salads, and they’re excellent as a savory snack alongside your tea. You can customize them with various fillings, such as herbs, cheeses, or even meats, so they’ll suit any palate.

Whether you’re planning brunch or breakfast, these scones will impress your guests or satisfy your cravings. Preparing savory scones is easy, too. You can adjust the ingredients like butter and cream based on your chosen fillings, and mixing in the fillings by hand guarantees an even coating. For effortless baking, shape the dough into squares and cut them into pieces.

Remember, using cold butter is essential for achieving flakiness and crisp edges. With a little balance of flavor, you can improve your scone with fresh herbs like dill and chives. You can even incorporate sourdough discard, which adds flavor and moisture. Plus, these scones are not only tasty but also low in carbs, making them ideal for those on a low-carb diet.

Best of all, you can make these delightful treats ahead of time and simply reheat them whenever you want a comforting snack.

History

Scones have a rich history that dates back to early 1500s Scotland, where they were first crafted from oats and baked over an open fire. The first known reference to scones appeared in a poem by a Scottish poet in 1513, marking their cultural significance early on.

Initially, these scones were large rounds, scored into wedges, and referred to as “bannocks” in Scotland.

As time went on, scones evolved, particularly when they became part of the English afternoon tea tradition around 1840, thanks to Anna, the Duchess of Bedford. English scones shifted from oats to flour, incorporating ingredients like sugar, butter, eggs, and milk.

In America, bakers began using baking powder instead of yeast, adding a sweet twist.

It’s interesting to note that the term “scone” itself might come from the Dutch “schoonbrot,” meaning fine white bread. Each region has its own take on scones, especially in Devon and Cornwall, where they serve them with jam and clotted cream.

Today, you can find scones in various flavors worldwide, accommodating many dietary needs. They truly reflect a journey through time and culture. Scones notably became integral to the afternoon tea tradition after being popularized by Anna, Duchess of Bedford.

Recipe

Savory Scones Recipe

Savory scones are a delightful addition to any meal, whether enjoyed alongside a hearty soup, served with a salad, or even as a standalone snack. These scones are light and flaky, thanks to the use of cold butter and cream, and they can be customized with a variety of cheeses and herbs to suit your taste. The scones are ideal for brunch and pair well with baked eggs, making them versatile for various meal occasions.

The method is straightforward, making it a perfect recipe for bakers of any level. To achieve the best texture and flavor, it’s crucial to work quickly and use cold ingredients. The combination of flavorful cheeses like Gruyere, Parmesan, or Cheddar with fresh herbs enhances these scones, making them a crowd-pleaser.

Following this recipe will lead you to a batch of golden-brown, delicious savory scones that will surely impress!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 to 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup grated cheese (Gruyere, Parmesan, or Cheddar)
• 1/2 cup cold butter, diced or grated
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or whipping cream
• 1 large egg
• Fresh herbs (chives, garlic, etc.), optional

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed.
3. Add the cold, diced butter to the flour mixture, using your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine until the mixture resembles a coarse meal.
4. Stir in the grated cheese and any optional herbs until evenly distributed.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and egg until smooth. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients, gently folding it until just combined. Avoid overworking the dough.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a circle or disk, about 1-inch thick. If desired, chill the dough for about 15 minutes to firm it up before cutting.
7. Cut the dough into 6 to 8 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Brush the tops of the scones with additional heavy cream or an egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and puffed up.
10. Allow the scones to cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before serving warm.

For the best results, verify all your ingredients are cold, particularly the butter and cream, to achieve that perfect flakiness.

You can easily experiment with different types of cheese and herbs to create unique flavor combinations tailored to your preference. If you find your dough is too dry, consider adding a splash more cream or egg to help with consistency.

Happy baking!

Final Thoughts

When considering how to serve your delicious creations, keep in mind that these scones shine in a variety of settings. They’re versatile enough to complement soups, making them perfect as a side dish. Pair them with roasted red pepper tomato soup or a revitalizing gazpacho.

If you prefer, enjoy them as an appetizer or for a savory breakfast. They also make a delightful treat with tea or coffee during brunch.

For ideal enjoyment, consider pairing these scones with an earthy red wine or snacking on them throughout the day. You can customize your scones, too! Try adding different cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère for varied flavors. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can add a fragrant touch, while ingredients such as sun-dried tomatoes or bacon improve taste.

To achieve the best results, use all-purpose flour for the right texture. Make sure your butter is cold and diced for a flaky finish. Incorporating heavy cream or buttermilk will boost moisture. Incorporate some cheese variety to enhance flavor, as these options are adaptable for personal preferences.

Remember to brush the tops lightly with milk or heavy cream before baking for a beautiful golden crust. With these tips in mind, your savory scones can be a staple in any meal.

FAQ

If you’re curious about savory scones, you’ve come to the right place. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you master this delicious treat.

What are the key ingredients? You’ll need all-purpose flour for structure, baking powder for leavening, and cold butter for a flaky texture. Liquid ingredients like buttermilk or cream add moisture. Don’t forget flavorings such as cheese, herbs, or chives to improve taste.

How should I prepare the dough? Start by mixing dry ingredients separately. Always keep your butter and milk cold to achieve the best texture. Avoid overmixing; stop once everything’s combined to prevent toughness. Knead the dough lightly and consider resting it for even baking. Freezing the dough can also help achieve an optimal rise.

What baking techniques should I follow? Preheat your oven and bake your scones at a high temperature for that golden finish. Brushing with egg wash can improve their appearance. Finally, let your scones cool properly to maintain their texture.

What should I watch out for? Overmixing can lead to hard scones, and underbaking results in doughy centers. Verify your baking powder is fresh to avoid issues with rising.