Savory Cheddar Chive Scones are a delicious twist on the traditional scone, offering a savory option that combines the sharp, rich flavor of cheddar cheese with the fresh, aromatic taste of chives. These scones are light, flaky, and wonderfully buttery—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side to soups and salads. The melt-in-your-mouth texture and balance of flavors make these scones a delightful addition to any meal.
1. What Are Savory Cheddar Chive Scones?
Savory Cheddar Chive Scones are a variation of traditional British scones, but instead of being sweet, they are infused with cheddar cheese and fresh chives. These scones feature the same flaky texture as classic scones but are flavored with savory ingredients, making them the perfect accompaniment to savory dishes like soups or salads, or simply served warm with butter.
What makes them unique:
- Flaky and buttery: A rich, tender texture that melts in your mouth.
- Savory and cheesy: The sharpness of cheddar and the freshness of chives provide bold, complementary flavors.
- Versatile: Serve them with a meal, on their own with a bit of butter, or as an appetizer at a gathering.
2. How to Make Savory Cheddar Chive Scones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional for extra flavor)
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives (chopped)
- 2/3 cup buttermilk (or whole milk)
- 1 large egg (for egg wash, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder (if using). This helps to evenly distribute the dry ingredients. - Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your hands, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. It’s okay if there are some small pea-sized pieces of butter left. This will help create a flaky texture. - Add Cheese and Chives
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. - Add the Wet Ingredients
Make a well in the center of the mixture and pour in the buttermilk. Gently mix the dough with a spoon or your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to dense scones. - Form the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a 1-inch thick round disc. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice the dough into 8 wedges. - Bake the Scones
Arrange the scones on the prepared baking sheet. If desired, beat the egg and brush it lightly on top of each scone to give them a golden, shiny finish. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. - Serve
Allow the scones to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with a pat of butter or a dollop of sour cream.
Tips for Perfect Scones:
- Keep the butter cold: Cold butter helps create the signature flaky texture. You can even freeze the butter for a few minutes before using it.
- Don’t overmix: Gently mix the dough until just combined—overmixing can make the scones tough.
- Chill the dough: If you want an even flakier scone, chill the dough in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before baking.
3. Health Benefits of Savory Cheddar Chive Scones
While these scones are indulgent, they can still offer some nutritional benefits when made with the right ingredients.
Rich in Protein
The cheddar cheese adds a nice dose of protein, which is important for muscle repair and overall bodily function.
Fiber-Rich Flour
Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour will increase the fiber content of these scones, making them more filling and beneficial for digestion.
Fresh Herbs
Chives not only add a wonderful flavor, but they also provide vitamins A and K, as well as folate. Herbs like chives are packed with antioxidants, which can help support overall health.
Lower in Sugar
Unlike sweet scones, savory scones don’t have added sugar, making them a great option for those looking to cut back on sugar intake.
4. Creative Variations of Savory Cheddar Chive Scones
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, feel free to experiment with these variations:
Bacon and Cheddar Chive Scones
Add crispy bacon bits to the dough for a smoky flavor that complements the cheddar cheese.
Herb-Infused Scones
Swap the chives for other herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for a fresh twist. A mix of herbs can also create a more complex flavor profile.
Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Chive Scones
Add finely chopped jalapeños to the dough for a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the rich cheddar.
Caramelized Onion and Cheese Scones
Incorporate caramelized onions into the dough for a sweet and savory flavor that complements the cheddar and chives.
Vegan Cheddar Chive Scones
Use vegan butter and dairy-free cheese to make these scones vegan-friendly, and swap the buttermilk for a plant-based alternative like oat or almond milk.
5. Pairing and Serving Suggestions
These Savory Cheddar Chive Scones are incredibly versatile and can be served with a wide range of dishes or enjoyed on their own.
Perfect Pairings:
- Soup: These scones are a perfect side to creamy soups like tomato bisque, butternut squash soup, or potato leek soup.
- Salads: Serve alongside a fresh green salad or Caesar salad for a light, balanced meal.
- Breakfast: Enjoy them with scrambled eggs, avocado, or smoked salmon for a hearty breakfast.
- Charcuterie board: These scones are a great addition to a cheese and charcuterie board.
Drink Pairings:
- Herbal tea: A light green tea or chamomile pairs well with the richness of these scones.
- Red wine: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir complements the savory flavors of the scones.
- Coffee: If you’re serving the scones for breakfast or brunch, pair them with a cup of black coffee or latte.
6. Tips for Storing and Reheating Savory Cheddar Chive Scones
These scones can be made ahead of time and stored for later, making them perfect for meal prep or future gatherings.
Storage:
- Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.
- To store them for an extended period, freeze the baked scones in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- To reheat scones, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes until warm and slightly crisp.
- If reheating from frozen, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
FAQs About Savory Cheddar Chive Scones
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar with cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
2. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can use regular milk, but buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps make the scones more tender. If using regular milk, consider adding a teaspoon of vinegar to mimic the acidity of buttermilk.
3. Can I make these scones ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, bake the scones and store them for up to 3 days at room temperature.
4. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough before baking. After forming the dough into rounds or wedges, freeze them on a baking sheet and transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
5. Can I add other vegetables to these scones?
Yes, finely chopped vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or roasted peppers can be added to the dough for extra flavor and nutrition.
6. How do I prevent my scones from being too dry?
Be sure to measure your flour correctly and avoid overmixing the dough. If the dough feels too dry, you can add a bit more buttermilk to achieve the right consistency.
7. Can I make these scones gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make these scones gluten-free. Ensure you use a gluten-free baking powder as well.
8. Can I make them without garlic powder?
Yes, garlic powder is optional. You can omit it or substitute with finely minced fresh garlic or onion powder.
9. How do I know when the scones are done?
The scones should be golden brown on the top and slightly firm to the touch. You can insert a toothpick to check for any wet batter inside—if it comes out clean, they’re ready.
10. Can I use frozen grated cheese?
Frozen cheese works in a pinch, but freshly grated cheese melts and incorporates better into the dough for a smoother texture.
Conclusion
Savory Cheddar Chive Scones are a delightful, easy-to-make treat that combines rich, buttery goodness with the sharp flavor of cheddar and the freshness of chives. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or breakfast, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With their flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture and versatile flavor, these scones are perfect for any occasion—just be prepared for everyone to ask for seconds! 🧀🌿🥐