Savory Veggie and Cheese Scones
Highlighted under: Homestyle Comfort Plates
I absolutely adore these savory veggie and cheese scones! They are perfect for a quick breakfast, a lovely brunch, or even as a savory snack during the day. The combination of fresh vegetables and gooey cheese creates a delightful flavor that keeps you coming back for more. I like to use whatever veggies I have on hand, which makes this recipe incredibly versatile and a fantastic way to use up leftovers. Trust me; you won’t want to miss trying these scrumptious scones!
When I first tried making scones, I didn't expect them to be so easy and delicious! I experimented with mixing in various vegetables like spinach and bell peppers, and I was blown away by how well the flavors complimented the cheese. To get that perfect texture, I recommend not overworking the dough; just mix until combined to keep them light and fluffy. These scones are always a hit at family gatherings!
What I love most about these scones is their versatility. You can customize them with your favorite ingredients—if you’re craving something spicy, throw in some jalapeños, or try adding herbs for an aromatic twist. The addition of cheese not only adds richness but also helps to hold everything together. Trust me; they will become a staple in your home!
Why You'll Love These Scones
- Hearty and satisfying, perfect for any meal
- Quick preparation with minimal cleanup
- Versatile for using up leftover veggies
- A delightful accompaniment to soups and salads
The Role of Fresh Vegetables
In savory scones, the choice of vegetables can significantly impact both flavor and texture. For instance, bell peppers add a sweetness and crunch, while spinach introduces a tender and slightly earthy element. You can swap in ingredients like zucchini or sun-dried tomatoes depending on your pantry. Just make sure to drain excess moisture from veggies like zucchini to prevent a soggy scone, as too much liquid can hinder the scone’s rise and create a dense texture.
If you prefer a more pronounced flavor, consider sautéing the vegetables lightly before adding them to the dough. This can enhance their sweetness and deepen their flavors, creating a more robust scone. Remember, however, to cool them down before mixing them with the batter to avoid melting the butter in your dough.
The Importance of Cold Ingredients
Using cold butter is crucial for creating the desired flaky texture in your scones. When cold butter is cut into the flour mixture, it forms little pockets as it melts during baking, contributing to layers and a tender crumb. For best results, you can freeze the butter for about 10-15 minutes before dicing it. If you find yourself without butter, you can use cold coconut oil or even shortening, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
In addition to the butter, ensure that your milk is also cold when added to the mixture. This maintains the temperature of the dough, encouraging that perfect rise in the oven. Room temperature or warm ingredients can lead to a tougher scone, so keep everything chilly until you’re ready to mix.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious scones:
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, gouda, or your choice)
- 1 cup mixed chopped veggies (like bell peppers, spinach, and green onions)
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to make these delightful scones!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your savory scones:
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, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
Cut in the Butter
Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Cheese and Veggies
Stir in the shredded cheese and chopped veggies until evenly distributed.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the milk with the beaten egg, then pour it into the flour mixture. Mix gently until just combined.
Shape the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently just until it comes together, then pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick.
Cut and Bake
Cut the dough into 12 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the remaining beaten egg. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving warm.
Enjoy these scones fresh out of the oven or store them for later!
Pro Tips
- For the best texture, avoid overmixing the dough. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses and vegetables to suit your taste. These are also delicious with a spread of butter or a dollop of sour cream.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These scones are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but you can make the dough ahead of time and chill it for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply wrap the shaped, unbaked scones in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before putting them in the oven for even cooking.
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the baked scones for up to a month. To revive them, just pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will restore their warmth and flakiness.
Serving Suggestions
These savory veggie and cheese scones pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For an easy breakfast, serve them alongside a bowl of fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt. You can also enjoy them with soups or salads for lunch; they function beautifully as a hearty bread alternative. A spread of cream cheese or herbed butter elevates the flavor even more.
For a themed brunch, try serving the scones with a selection of cheeses or a charcuterie board. Adding some cured meats and pickled vegetables can create an appealing spread that complements the scones' flavors while encouraging guests to mix and match.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these scones ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance, shape it, and refrigerate it. Just bake them fresh when needed.
→ What vegetables work best in these scones?
Any fresh vegetable can work, but I recommend firm vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or kale.
→ Can I freeze these scones?
Absolutely! You can freeze them before or after baking. Just ensure they are in an airtight container.
→ What other flavors can I add?
Herbs like chives, dill, or even spices like paprika can add an extra layer of flavor!
Savory Veggie and Cheese Scones
I absolutely adore these savory veggie and cheese scones! They are perfect for a quick breakfast, a lovely brunch, or even as a savory snack during the day. The combination of fresh vegetables and gooey cheese creates a delightful flavor that keeps you coming back for more. I like to use whatever veggies I have on hand, which makes this recipe incredibly versatile and a fantastic way to use up leftovers. Trust me; you won’t want to miss trying these scrumptious scones!
Created by: Olivia
Recipe Type: Homestyle Comfort Plates
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 12 scones
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, gouda, or your choice)
- 1 cup mixed chopped veggies (like bell peppers, spinach, and green onions)
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in the shredded cheese and chopped veggies until evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, combine the milk with the beaten egg, then pour it into the flour mixture. Mix gently until just combined.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently just until it comes together, then pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick.
Cut the dough into 12 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the remaining beaten egg. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving warm.
Extra Tips
- For the best texture, avoid overmixing the dough. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses and vegetables to suit your taste. These are also delicious with a spread of butter or a dollop of sour cream.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 6g