These Sharp Cheddar and Chive Sourdough Scones are a tasty treat! They’re fluffy and have a nice cheesy flavor with a hint of chives that makes every bite special.
These scones are perfect for breakfast or a snack. I love them warm with butter, and they also make great additions to a brunch. You won’t be able to stop at just one! 🧀🌱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for the scones. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it has xanthan gum in it for better texture.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: For the best flavor, use high-quality sharp cheddar. If you need a milder cheese, you could substitute with mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses for variety.
Chives: Fresh chives add a unique flavor, but if you don’t have them, green onions or finely chopped herbs like parsley or dill can work nicely too.
Sourdough Starter: You can use your sourdough discard for these scones! If you don’t have sourdough starter, consider using plain yogurt or kefir for a similar tangy flavor.
Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
What’s the Best Way to Cut and Shape Scones?
Shaping scones correctly is crucial for their fluffy texture. After mixing the dough, don’t overwork it. Here’s how to shape them easily:
- Lightly flour your work surface before turning out the dough.
- Use your hands to gently press the dough into a 1-inch thick circle. This keeps the layers light.
- Instead of rolling it out with a pin, pat it gently with your hands to avoid tough scones.
- When cutting, use a sharp knife for clean edges. This helps them rise evenly while baking.
Following these tips will ensure your scones turn out beautifully fluffy and delicious every time!
Sharp Cheddar And Chive Sourdough Scones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Other Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 cup sourdough starter (discard or active, unfed)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 15 to 20 minutes to bake. So in total, you’ll spend around 30 minutes from start to finish to enjoy these delicious scones!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, set your oven to preheat at 425°F (220°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This helps ensure even distribution of the leavening agents.
3. Incorporate the Butter:
Add the cold butter cubes to your flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix the butter into the flour until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs, with some pea-sized pieces of butter still visible.
4. Add Cheese and Chives:
Next, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and chopped chives, making sure they’re evenly spread throughout the mixture.
5. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix the sourdough starter with the buttermilk and honey (if using) until everything is combined smoothly.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, gently fold the two together until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Remember, don’t overmix—just combine until everything is moistened!
7. Shape the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Take care not to roll it out, as we want to keep the scones tender.
8. Cut Into Scones:
With a sharp knife or a bench scraper, cut the dough into 6 or 8 equal triangular pieces. Place these on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
9. Brush with Buttermilk:
Lightly brush the tops of the scones with extra buttermilk. This will help them brown beautifully in the oven.
10. Bake:
Now, pop the scones into the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. They’re done when they’re golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Cool and Serve:
Allow the scones to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack. Serve warm with butter, or enjoy them as they are!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat them slightly before serving again.
Enjoy these flavorful, flaky, and cheesy sourdough scones with the fresh herbal punch of chives!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour in This Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for up to half of the all-purpose flour for added nutrition and flavor. Just keep in mind that the scones may be a bit denser, so you might need to increase the liquid slightly to achieve the right dough consistency.
How Do I Know When the Scones Are Done Baking?
The scones are done when they are a beautiful golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. They should also feel firm to the touch when you lightly press on them.
What Are the Best Ways to Store Leftover Scones?
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap each scone in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Scones?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your scones by adding cooked bacon, diced jalapeños, or different herbs like rosemary or thyme. Just be mindful of the total volume so that the dough remains manageable.
