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Savory Ham & Cheese Scones

Savory Ham & Cheese Scones

Discover the rich, savory flavors and flaky texture of Savory Ham & Cheese Scones. These delicious scones combine tender, buttery dough with hearty diced ham and melted sharp cheese, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light snack. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, they offer a flaky, tender crumb with a golden crust that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Butter

  • 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed

Cheese and Ham

  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or choice of gouda, Swiss, or pepper jack)
  • 3/4 cup diced cooked ham

Wet Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup milk or buttermilk
  • 1 large egg

Instructions

  1. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper to distribute the leavening and seasoning evenly throughout the dough.
  2. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold unsalted butter cubes to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, which is key to creating flaky layers.
  3. Incorporate Ham and Cheese: Gently fold the diced ham and shredded cheese into the crumb mixture, ensuring an even distribution without overworking the dough.
  4. Add Wet Ingredients and Form Dough: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk (or buttermilk) and egg. Pour this into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined to keep the dough tender.
  5. Shape and Cut the Scones: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick circle. Cut into desired shapes such as triangles or rounds.
  6. Bake Until Golden: Place scones on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown on top.

Notes

  • Keep ingredients cold, especially butter and liquids, for flaky scones.
  • Do not overmix the dough to avoid tough scones.
  • Use sharp, aged cheese for enhanced flavor.
  • Allow dough to rest briefly chilled before baking to improve texture.
  • Brush scones with an egg wash before baking for a shiny, golden crust.
  • Use pre-cooked ham diced finely for even distribution.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Freeze unbaked scones on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag; bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to baking time.
  • Reheat scones at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness and melty cheese texture.

Nutrition

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