Savory Cheese and Herb Scones

Introduction

Savory Cheese and Herb Scones are a delicious twist on the classic scone, featuring rich, cheesy goodness with fragrant herbs in every bite. These scones are flaky, buttery, and bursting with flavor, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side for soups and salads. Whether served warm with butter or paired with a hearty dish, these scones bring comfort and elegance to any meal.

I remember the first time I made these for a cozy weekend brunch. The aroma of melted cheese and fresh herbs filled the kitchen, making everyone eager to dig in. The first bite was pure bliss—flaky, cheesy, and perfectly savory. What I love about these scones is how versatile they are. You can switch up the cheese, experiment with different herbs, or even add a touch of spice for an extra kick. They pair beautifully with butter, a dollop of cream cheese, or even a drizzle of honey for a sweet-savory contrast.

These scones are surprisingly simple to make, too. With just a few pantry staples and a quick mix-and-bake process, you can have a batch of warm, golden scones ready in no time. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, serving them alongside a comforting soup, or just treating yourself to a homemade delight, these savory scones are always a hit!

Perfect for:

• Breakfast or brunch
• Afternoon tea
• Side dish for soups and salads
• Snack or appetizer
• Cheese and herb lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, Buttery Flavor: A flaky, buttery texture with just the right amount of crispness on the outside.
• Cheesy Goodness: Made with a generous amount of cheese, creating a perfectly gooey and flavorful bite.
• Fresh Herbs: Fragrant herbs add depth and elevate the savory profile.
• No Yeast Required: Quick and easy to prepare—no waiting for dough to rise!
• Versatile & Customizable: Perfect as a standalone snack or paired with meals.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 18-20 minutes
• Servings: 8 large scones or 12 smaller scones
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 7g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your Savory Cheese and Herb Scones:

For the Scone Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• ¾ cup milk (or buttermilk)
• 1 large egg (for a richer texture)

For the Topping:

• 2 tablespoons shredded cheese (for sprinkling)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)

Ingredient Highlights

• Cold Butter: Ensures flaky, tender scones by creating small steam pockets in the dough.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Provides a rich, tangy, and savory taste.
• Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and thyme enhance the flavor with their earthy, aromatic notes.
• Milk or Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang, making the scones soft yet firm.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make the perfect Savory Cheese and Herb Scones:

Prepare the Dough:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
3. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add the Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the shredded cheese, rosemary, and thyme, ensuring even distribution.
5. Add the Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the milk (or buttermilk) and egg. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Shape and Cut the Scones:

6. Form the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times until it comes together.
7. Shape the Scones: Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick round or rectangle. Cut into 8 wedges for classic scones or use a biscuit cutter for round scones.
8. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

Bake the Scones:

9. Brush and Sprinkle: Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with additional cheese.
10. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.

Serve and Garnish:

11. Cool Slightly: Let the scones cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
12. Garnish and Enjoy: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite spread.

How to Serve

• With a Bowl of Soup: Pairs perfectly with tomato soup, vegetable soup, or creamy potato soup.
• Alongside a Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad for a light and balanced meal.
• With Breakfast: Enjoy with scrambled eggs, avocado, or fresh fruit.
• As an Appetizer: Serve with herb butter or a light dipping sauce.
• On a Charcuterie Board: A great addition to cheese and fruit platters.

Additional Tips

• Use Cold Ingredients: Keep butter and milk cold to maintain the flakiness of the scones.
• Don’t Overmix: Overworking the dough can result in tough scones. Mix just until combined.
• Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with parmesan, gruyère, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
• Customize with More Herbs: Add chives, oregano, or basil for extra freshness.
• Double the Batch: These scones freeze well, so make extra for later.

Recipe Variations

1. Cheddar & Chive Scones – Replace rosemary with chopped chives.
2. Garlic & Parmesan Scones – Add roasted garlic and parmesan for a deeper flavor.
3. Spinach & Feta Scones – Mix in chopped spinach and feta cheese.
4. Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Scones – Add sun-dried tomatoes and basil for a Mediterranean twist.
5. Jalapeño Cheddar Scones – For a spicy kick, mix in diced jalapeños.
6. Caramelized Onion & Swiss Scones – A rich, savory combination.
7. Herbed Goat Cheese Scones – Use goat cheese and extra fresh herbs.
8. Sweet Potato & Sage Scones – A cozy, autumn-inspired variation.
9. Zucchini & Cheddar Scones – A great way to add veggies.
10. Olive & Feta Scones – A salty, tangy Mediterranean-inspired option.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Freeze unbaked scones on a tray, then store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.

Special Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush

FAQ Section

1. Can I make these without eggs? Yes, replace the egg with ¼ cup extra milk.
2. Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but the scones will be denser. Try a 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour.
3. How do I reheat them? Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes.
4. Can I make them gluten-free? Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
5. Can I make them dairy-free? Use vegan butter, dairy-free cheese, and almond milk.

Print

Conclusion

Savory Cheese and Herb Scones are a flavorful, buttery treat that perfectly balances rich, cheesy goodness with fragrant herbs. These tender, flaky scones make a delicious addition to any meal, whether served warm with butter, alongside soup, or as a tasty snack on their own.

With their golden, crispy edges and soft, melt-in-your-mouth center, these scones are as satisfying as they are easy to make. Customize them with your favorite cheeses and herbs to suit your taste, making them a versatile staple for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

This recipe is simple to prepare, using basic ingredients to create a bakery-worthy treat in no time. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the best texture and flavor, or reheat them for a comforting bite anytime.

I’d love to see your Savory Cheese and Herb Scones! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me so I can admire your delicious creation. Happy baking!