Savory Veggie and Cheese Scones
Highlighted under: Clean & Simple Meals
I absolutely love these Savory Veggie and Cheese Scones! They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack. Each bite is filled with fresh veggies and a generous amount of cheese, bringing a delightful balance of flavors and textures. I often enjoy these scones with a warm cup of soup or just on their own. They’re quick to whip up, making them a go-to whenever I have a craving for something savory. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
While experimenting with baking, I stumbled upon a flavor combination that changed my scone game forever. I decided to blend my favorite veggies with a generous amount of cheese, and oh, what a revelation it was! The combination of sharp cheddar and fresh herbs truly elevated the humble scone, making it a delectable treat.
The real trick is to not over-mix the dough; I learned this the hard way! Just a few turns with your hands is enough to bring it together, resulting in flakey, airy scones. This method ensures they rise beautifully in the oven.
Why You'll Love These Scones
- Bursting with fresh vegetable goodness
- Rich, gooey cheese in every bite
- Perfectly flaky and easy to make
- Versatile for any meal of the day
Techniques for Perfectly Flaky Scones
Achieving the perfect scone texture hinges on several key techniques. First, when blending cold butter into the dry ingredients, aim for the texture of coarse crumbs. This step is vital; if the butter is too warm, it won't create the desirable flaky layers. Ensure your butter is straight from the fridge. I like to cut the butter into small pieces and then use a pastry cutter or my fingers to blend until you see some pea-sized chunks remain.
Another tip is to handle the dough as little as possible once you add the wet ingredients. Overworking the dough can lead to dense scones instead of the light and flaky result we want. Mix just until combined, and then turn it out onto a floured surface to shape. Remember, it’s okay if the dough looks a bit rough; this will give the scones their charming rustic look.
Ingredient Insight: The Role of Veggies and Cheese
The inclusion of fresh vegetables in these scones not only enhances their flavor but also adds moisture, making the scones tender. You can experiment with different veggies based on your preference or what you have on hand. For example, zucchini can provide a lovely mild taste, while sun-dried tomatoes can add a burst of richness. Just ensure that any veggies you choose are finely chopped to prevent excess moisture from impacting the texture.
Cheese is another star ingredient, and using sharp cheddar adds a depth of flavor that complements the veggies beautifully. If you're looking for a different taste, consider substituting with feta cheese for a tangy kick, or even pepper jack for a bit of heat. The key is to keep the cheese shredded, as it melts more evenly and helps bind the ingredients together during baking.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Scone Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mixed finely chopped veggies (like bell pepper, green onions, and spinach)
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
Incorporate the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Cheese and Veggies
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped veggies until evenly distributed.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and mix just until combined; be careful not to overwork the dough.
Shape the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently pat into a 1-inch thick circle. Cut into 12 wedges and place on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the Scones
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Let the scones cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving warm.
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding herbs like chives or rosemary to the dough. You can also substitute the cheddar with your favorite cheese for a different taste experience.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
These savory scones can be prepared in advance, making them perfect for busy mornings or gatherings. Once you shape the dough into wedges, you can either freeze them unbaked for up to three months or refrigerate them for a day before baking. If freezing, place the wedges on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a zip-top bag. When ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven without thawing, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Leftover scones can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to one week. Reheat scones in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes to restore their flaky texture. I find that a quick blast in the toaster oven works just as well, making them crispy on the outside.
Serving Suggestions
These scones are incredibly versatile and can be served at any meal. For breakfast, I love to pair them with a simple side of scrambled eggs or avocado spread. They also shine at brunch alongside fresh fruit or yogurt. If you're serving them as a snack, a warm bowl of soup makes a wonderful accompaniment, providing a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures.
Additionally, for a gourmet touch, consider serving them with flavored butters, such as garlic herb or honey butter. Simply mix softened butter with your choice of herbs and spices, then spread generously on the warm scones. Your guests will be impressed with this simple yet elevated addition!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk for buttermilk, but consider adding a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to achieve a similar acidity.
→ How do I store leftover scones?
Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
→ Can I add nuts or seeds to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts or seeds for added texture and flavor.
→ What are the best veggies to use?
You can use any veggies you prefer! Bell peppers, spinach, and scallions work particularly well, but get creative!
Savory Veggie and Cheese Scones
I absolutely love these Savory Veggie and Cheese Scones! They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack. Each bite is filled with fresh veggies and a generous amount of cheese, bringing a delightful balance of flavors and textures. I often enjoy these scones with a warm cup of soup or just on their own. They’re quick to whip up, making them a go-to whenever I have a craving for something savory. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
What You'll Need
Scone Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mixed finely chopped veggies (like bell pepper, green onions, and spinach)
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped veggies until evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and mix just until combined; be careful not to overwork the dough.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently pat into a 1-inch thick circle. Cut into 12 wedges and place on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Let the scones cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving warm.
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding herbs like chives or rosemary to the dough. You can also substitute the cheddar with your favorite cheese for a different taste experience.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 6g