Savory Delights: Cheese and Chive Scones Recipe

The aroma of freshly baked scones always transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She’d make them every Saturday morning, the cheesy, herby scent filling the entire house. I remember standing on a stool, eagerly watching her nimble hands work the dough, always sneaking a pinch of cheese when she wasn’t looking. These weren’t the sweet, jam-slathered scones you find in cafes; these were savory, robust, and utterly comforting – a taste of home I carry with me always.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7-10 minutes
• Total Time: 22-25 minutes
• Yields: 12 scones
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 12 ounces self-raising flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 ounces margarine
• 1 1/2 teaspoons mustard powder
• 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/4 – 1/2 cup fresh chives, chopped
• 5 ounces Cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 cup milk, to mix
• 1 pinch salt

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Rolling pin
• Round cookie cutter (or knife)
• Pastry brush (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to a hot temperature of 210-220°C (410-430°F). Ensure your oven rack is positioned in the center for even baking.

2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, salt, and baking powder. Sifting is crucial for creating light and airy scones.

3. Add the margarine to the bowl. Using your fingertips, rub the margarine into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs. This step is vital for creating a flaky texture. Avoid overworking the mixture, as this will result in tough scones.

4. Add the mustard powder, most of the Cheddar cheese, the Parmesan cheese, and the chopped fresh chives to the bowl. Mix well to distribute the ingredients evenly throughout the flour mixture. Retain a little of the Cheddar to sprinkle on top before baking.

5. Gradually add the milk, mixing until you have a fairly soft dough. Be careful not to add too much milk at once, as the dough should be moist but not sticky. You may not need the entire cup of milk.

6. Lightly flour a clean work surface. Roll out the dough to approximately 1 1/4 inches thick. Don’t worry if the edges are a little rough; this adds to the rustic charm of the scones.

7. Using a round cookie cutter (or a sharp knife), cut out the scones. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

8. Brush the tops of the scones lightly with milk. This helps them to brown beautifully in the oven. If you don’t have a pastry brush, you can use your fingertip.

9. Sprinkle the remaining grated Cheddar cheese over the tops of the scones. Be careful not to overload them with cheese; a light sprinkling is all that’s needed.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 7 to 10 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and well-risen. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly. A skewer inserted into the center should come out clean.

11. Remove the scones from the oven and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, try using a strong mature cheddar.
• Don’t overmix the dough! Overmixing develops the gluten and can lead to tough scones. Handle the dough gently.
• For a richer flavor, substitute buttermilk for regular milk.
• If you don’t have self-raising flour, you can make your own by adding 2 teaspoons of baking powder to every 150g (6oz) of plain flour.
• For a golden-brown crust, brush the scones with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of milk) instead of just milk.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these cheese and chive scones warm with a pat of butter or a dollop of cream cheese. They’re also delicious with a bowl of soup or a side salad for a light lunch. Leftover scones can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm them in a low oven or microwave until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the scones in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them completely before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	207.5 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	N/A
Total Fat	9 g	13%
Saturated Fat	3.9 g	19%
Cholesterol	15.6 mg	5%
Sodium	193.3 mg	8%
Total Carbohydrate	24.3 g	8%
Dietary Fiber	0.9 g	3%
Sugars	0.2 g	0%
Protein	7 g	14%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños to the dough for a little heat.
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or dill instead of chives.
• Cheese it up: Try using different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Gouda, or even feta.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free self-raising flour blend. You may need to add a little more milk to achieve the right consistency.
• Vegan: Substitute the margarine with a vegan butter alternative and the cheddar with a vegan cheese alternative. Use plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk) instead of dairy milk.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough up to a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature slightly before rolling and cutting.

Q: What if I don’t have self-raising flour?
A: You can make your own self-raising flour by adding 2 teaspoons of baking powder to every 150g (6oz) of plain flour.

Q: How do I keep the scones from being dry?
A: Avoid overbaking the scones. They should be golden brown on top but still slightly soft in the center. Also, be careful not to overmix the dough.

Q: Can I freeze the baked scones?
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked scones for up to 2 months. Thaw them completely before reheating.

Q: Why did my scones not rise very much?
A: Make sure your baking powder is fresh, and that you haven’t overworked the dough. Also, ensure your oven is hot enough.

Final Thoughts

These cheese and chive scones are a delightful treat any time of day. Whether you enjoy them warm from the oven for breakfast, as a savory snack, or alongside a comforting bowl of soup, their simple yet satisfying flavor is sure to please. So, go ahead, give this recipe a try, and share your creations with family and friends. I hope these scones bring as much joy to your table as they have to mine for so many years.