Name: Savory Ham & Cheese Scones
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, plus more for hands and work surface; 1 tablespoon (12g) granulated sugar; 2 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives; 1 cup (about 100g or 3.5 oz) shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup (8 tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, frozen; 2/3 cup (160ml) cold buttermilk, plus 1 tablespoon for brushing; 1 large egg, separated; 3/4 cup (about 110g or 3 oz) finely chopped ham; Optional for topping: flaky sea salt

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Savory Ham & Cheese Scones

Savory Ham & Cheese Scones are the perfect blend of flaky texture and delicious flavor, ideal for breakfast or a delightful snack. These scones are easy to make and an absolute crowd-pleaser, showcasing the warm and inviting flavors of ham and cheddar cheese.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to make Savory Ham & Cheese Scones. First and foremost, they are incredibly versatile. These scones make an excellent companion to soups or salads, serve as a flavorful addition to brunch, or stand alone as a tasty snack. Plus, their simple preparation method makes them accessible even for novice bakers. With just a few ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a dish that is not only satisfying but also comforting and filled with homely goodness.

Beyond versatility, the combination of sharp cheddar cheese and savory ham creates a flavor profile that resonates with both kids and adults alike. Each bite is a delightful journey through rich cheese and savory ham, making it hard to stop at just one!

How to Make Savory Ham & Cheese Scones

Creating Savory Ham & Cheese Scones is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these step-by-step instructions to whip up a batch of these mouth-watering treats.

Ingredients

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled), plus more for hands and work surface
1 Tablespoon (12g) granulated sugar
2 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 Tablespoons chopped fresh chives
1 cup (about 100g or 3.5 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, frozen (see note)
2/3 cup (160ml) cold buttermilk, plus 1 Tablespoon for brushing
1 large egg, separated
3/4 cup (about 110g or 3 oz) finely chopped ham
Optional for topping: flaky sea salt

Directions

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the chopped chives and shredded cheddar cheese to evenly distribute the flavors.
Add Butter: Grate the frozen butter using a box grater and add it to the flour mixture. Combine the ingredients using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingers until you reach a crumbly texture with pea-sized crumbs.
Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 2/3 cup of buttermilk and the egg yolk (save the egg white for later).
Combine Mixtures: Pour the buttermilk and egg yolk mixture over the flour and cheese mixture, then fold in the finely chopped ham. Mix until the dough starts to clump together.
Shape Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Using floured hands, bring the dough into a ball. It may be sticky; feel free to add a little more flour if necessary. If the dough feels too dry, add 1-2 additional tablespoons of cold buttermilk. Press the dough into an 8-inch disc.
Cut Scones: With a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the disc into 8 wedges. For smaller scones, you can adjust the size accordingly. Alternatively, for drop scones, continue mixing the dough until it comes together and then drop about 1/4 cup of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spaced 3 inches apart.
Prepare for Baking: In a small bowl, whisk the reserved egg white with 1 tablespoon of buttermilk. Lightly brush this mixture over the tops of the scones and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
Chill Dough: Place the scones on a plate or lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes while preheating the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Bake Scones: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mats. After chilling, arrange the scones 2-3 inches apart. Bake for 22-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the tops are lightly browned.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the scones cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack or serving immediately.

Pro Tips for Success Savory Ham & Cheese Scones

Use Cold Ingredients: Keeping your butter and buttermilk cold will result in lighter and fluffier scones. Plan to chill your butter in advance so that it grates nicely.
Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix the ingredients just until they come together. Overworking can lead to tough scones.
Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to mix it up! Try using Gruyère, feta, or even a blend of your favorites for different flavors.
Add Additional Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill can elevate the scone’s flavor profile and add even more depth.
Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve the scones warm right out of the oven with a dollop of butter or a spread of your favorite jam.

Flavor Variations Savory Ham & Cheese Scones

Add Spinach or Kale: Incorporate a handful of chopped cooked spinach or kale into the dough for added nutrition and flavor.
Onion and Bacon Twist: For a hearty twist, replace the ham with crispy bacon and add some finely chopped green onions into the mix.
Spicy Jalapeño Addition: Chop up some pickled jalapeños for a kick in your scones; pair this with pepper jack cheese for an extra zing.
Mediterranean Style: Swap the ham for sun-dried tomatoes and use feta cheese along with fresh herbs for a delightful Mediterranean flavor.

Serving Suggestions Savory Ham & Cheese Scones

Savory Ham & Cheese Scones are delightful on their own but can also be paired with various accompaniments:

Soups: Serve alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup or a hearty chicken noodle soup for an excellent lunch combo.
Salads: Pair with a fresh mixed green salad or a caesar salad for a more substantial meal.
Breakfast Spread: Serve these scones as part of a breakfast spread alongside eggs, fresh fruit, and yogurt.
Cheese Board: Add them to a cheese and charcuterie board for a delightful variety of flavors and textures.

Storage and Freezing Instructions Savory Ham & Cheese Scones

To keep your Savory Ham & Cheese Scones fresh:

Room Temperature: Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can lose their crispness slightly but will still be delicious.
Refrigerator: If you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: To freeze, place the scones in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 250
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 300mg

FAQ About Savory Ham & Cheese Scones

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! You can use whole wheat flour, but it may yield denser scones. Consider combining it with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.

Is there a substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitution by combining regular milk with a bit of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it curdles for a perfect substitute.

Can I make these scones ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the scone dough ahead of time. Shape the scones, and then freeze them. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.

What can I use instead of ham?

You can substitute ham with diced turkey, cooked chicken, or even vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a vegetarian (but still hearty) scone.

Can I add spices to the scones?

Certainly! Adding spices like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or even Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor profile of your scones.

What’s the best way to serve these scones?

Serve them warm right out of the oven with a bit of butter, jam, or even alongside a hearty soup or salad for a wonderful meal or snack!

Final Thoughts

Savory Ham & Cheese Scones are more than just a baked good; they are a delightful culinary experience that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With their flaky texture and rich flavor, these scones are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. So why not give this simple recipe a try? You’ll be amazed at how easy and delicious homemade scones can be! Enjoy your baking adventure!

Savory Ham & Cheese Scones