Savory Cheese and Herb Scones

Here’s a flavorful recipe for Savory Cheese and Herb Scones, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a tasty snack:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup heavy cream, plus extra for brushing
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh herbs (such as chives, parsley, and dill)
• Optional: 1/2 tsp garlic powder for extra flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder. Whisk together to mix thoroughly.
3. Cut in the Butter:
   • Add the cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and egg until smooth.
5. Make the Dough:
   • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Add the grated cheeses and chopped herbs. Mix gently with a fork until the dough just begins to come together. Do not overmix.
6. Shape and Cut Scones:
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently just a few times until smooth. Pat the dough into a round disc about 3/4 inch thick.
   • Using a sharp knife or a dough cutter, cut the disc into 8 equal wedges.
7. Prepare for Baking:
   • Place the scone wedges on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
   • Brush the tops of the scones with a little extra heavy cream. This will help them to brown beautifully in the oven.
8. Bake the Scones:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of a scone comes out clean.
9. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the scones to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
   • Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your Savory Cheese and Herb Scones with a spread of butter or as a side to your favorite soup or salad! They’re especially good fresh from the oven.