These Sourdough Cheese Scones are fluffy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious! They blend the tangy flavor of sourdough with melty cheese for a perfect snack.
I love how quick they are to make. Just mix, shape, and bake! Plus, they make my kitchen smell amazing. I could eat these any time of day! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your scones. You can substitute whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, but it might change the texture a bit. I’ve also mixed in a little cake flour for tenderness!
Sourdough Starter: Use an active and unfed starter for the best results. If you don’t have sourdough starter, you can replace it with plain yogurt or buttermilk for a similar tangy flavor.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great flavor! Feel free to mix it up with other cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or even a pepper jack for a kick. I often mix different cheeses for more depth.
Fresh Herbs: Chives or parsley add freshness. You can substitute with dried herbs if fresh isn’t available, but use less since dried herbs are more potent.
How Do I Make Sure My Scones Are Fluffy?
To achieve the perfect fluffy scones, focus on the following techniques:
- Cold Ingredients: Keep your butter cold. Dice it and return it to the fridge while you prep the other ingredients. This helps create flaky layers.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough scones.
- Pat, Don’t Roll: When shaping the dough, gently pat it into shape instead of rolling it out. This keeps the layers intact.
- Cut Straight Down: When cutting scones, press straight down without twisting the cutter. Twisting seals the edges and prevents rising.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making light, airy scones every time! Enjoy baking!
How to Make Sourdough Cheese Scones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
- 1 cup sourdough starter (active and unfed)
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-18 minutes to bake, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick snack or breakfast treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure your scones bake evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and black pepper (if using). This helps to ensure everything is well combined and the baking powder is evenly distributed.
3. Cut in the Butter:
Add the cold cubed butter into the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. This will create flaky layers in your scones!
4. Add Cheese and Herbs:
Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and chopped chives (or parsley). Make sure they are evenly mixed into the flour mixture for an explosion of flavor in every bite.
5. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, mix together the sourdough starter and buttermilk until combined. This will give your scones a delicious flavor and tenderness.
6. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky but not overly wet!
7. Shape the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick round. This is the base for your scones—remember not to roll it out to keep those lovely flaky layers!
8. Cut and Place Scones:
Using a round biscuit cutter or a glass, cut out scones and place them on your prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced a little apart for even baking.
9. Re-shape and Cut Remaining Dough:
Gather any scraps of dough, lightly pat them back together, and cut out more scones until all the dough is used. No waste here!
10. Bake Until Golden:
Bake the scones for 15-18 minutes until they are golden brown on top. The kitchen will smell delightful during this time!
11. Cool and Serve:
Remove the scones from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly. They are best served warm!
12. Enjoy:
Serve your scones warm, optionally with butter or your favorite spread. Enjoy this delicious treat with friends or family, or keep them all to yourself!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat flour for half or all of the all-purpose flour. Just keep in mind that it may result in denser scones, so you might want to add a little extra liquid to maintain moisture.
How Should I Store Leftover Scones?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can freeze the scones for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-top bag!
Can I Use Another Type of Cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a pepper jack can add unique flavors. Just ensure they’re shredded to incorporate well into the dough.
What If My Dough is Too Sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour onto your work surface or into the bowl as you mix. Be careful not to add too much flour, though, as this can result in tougher scones. A dough slightly sticky to the touch is great for achieving fluffy scones!
