Savory Ham & Cheese Scones

These savory ham & cheese scones are a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and a flaky texture, perfect for any occasion. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, these scones are sure to impress your family and friends. The best part? They can be customized with your favorite ingredients, making them versatile and easy to enjoy at any time.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Savory Ham & Cheese Scones
• Step 1: Whisk Dry Ingredients
• Step 2: Prepare Butter Mixture
• Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
• Step 4: Form Dough
• Step 5: Cut Scones
• Step 6: Brush with Buttermilk
• Step 7: Chill Dough
• Step 8: Bake Scones
• Step 9: Cool Before Serving
• Storage Tips
• How to Serve Savory Ham & Cheese Scones
• For Breakfast
• As a Snack
• For Brunch
• With Soup
• At Parties
• How to Perfect Savory Ham & Cheese Scones
• Best Side Dishes for Savory Ham & Cheese Scones
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Savory Ham & Cheese Scones
• Reheating Savory Ham & Cheese Scones
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I customize savory ham & cheese scones?
• How do I know when my scones are done?
• Can I make these savory ham & cheese scones dairy-free?
• How should I store leftover savory ham & cheese scones?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These savory ham & cheese scones come together in just about an hour, making them a great choice for busy mornings.
• Flaky Texture: The use of frozen butter helps create a light and flaky interior that melts in your mouth.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the ham for bacon or sausage, or even make them vegetarian by omitting meat altogether.
• Freezable: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for a quick snack or breakfast option later on.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve these scones warm right from the oven for a beautiful addition to any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have all the necessary tools ready. Having the right equipment ensures that your baking process runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Box grater
• Pastry cutter (or forks)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients effectively.
• Box grater: Allows you to quickly grate frozen butter, which is crucial for achieving that flaky texture.
• Pastry cutter: Helps mix the butter into the flour evenly without warming it up too much.

Ingredients

These savory ham & cheese scones are packed with flavor and have a delightfully flaky, soft interior. You can freeze the scones before or after baking. You can also skip the ham or replace it with cooked bacon or sausage. Review recipe Notes before beginning.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled), plus more for hands and work surface
• 1 Tablespoon (12g) granulated sugar
• 2 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 Tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• 1 cup (about 100g or 3.5 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, frozen (see note)
• 2/3 cup (160ml) cold buttermilk, plus 1 Tablespoon for brushing
• 1 large egg, separated
• 3/4 cup (about 110g or 3 oz) finely chopped ham
• optional for topping: flaky sea salt

How to Make Savory Ham & Cheese Scones

Step 1: Whisk Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the dry ingredients in a large bowl:
1. Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir in chopped chives and shredded cheese until evenly distributed.

Step 2: Prepare Butter Mixture

Grate the frozen butter:
1. Use a box grater to grate the frozen butter directly into the flour mixture.
2. Mix with a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingers until you achieve pea-sized crumbs.
3. Place this mixture in the refrigerator while preparing wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Prepare the wet ingredients:
1. Whisk together 2/3 cup buttermilk and egg yolk in a separate bowl.
2. Pour this mixture over the flour mixture.
3. Add in finely chopped ham and mix until everything clumps together.

Step 4: Form Dough

Shape your dough:
1. Transfer dough onto a floured work surface.
2. With floured hands, gently form it into a ball; it may be sticky.
3. If needed, adjust with extra flour or buttermilk to achieve desired consistency.

Step 5: Cut Scones

Cut out your scones:
1. Press dough into an 8-inch disc on the floured surface.
2. Use a sharp knife to cut into 8 wedges.
3. Alternatively, prepare drop scones by dropping rounded portions onto lined baking sheets.

Step 6: Brush with Buttermilk

Prepare for baking:
1. Mix reserved egg white with 1 tablespoon of buttermilk.
2. Brush this mixture lightly on top of each scone.
3. Optionally sprinkle with flaky sea salt before refrigerating.

Step 7: Chill Dough

Chill before baking:
1. Refrigerate arranged scones on a plate or lined sheet for at least 15 minutes while preheating oven to 400°F (204°C).

Step 8: Bake Scones

Bake to perfection:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper if not already done.
2. Arrange chilled scones on prepared sheet(s), spacing them apart.
3. Bake for about 22–25 minutes until golden brown on edges and lightly browned on top.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Allow cooling:
Remove from oven and let cool slightly on sheets before serving warm.

Storage Tips

Leftover scones keep well at room temperature for up to two days or can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days—though they may soften slightly after day two!

How to Serve Savory Ham & Cheese Scones

Savory ham & cheese scones are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

For Breakfast

• Enjoy these scones warm with a pat of butter for a classic breakfast treat.
• Pair with scrambled eggs for a hearty morning meal.

As a Snack

• Serve with a side of honey or jam for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
• Accompany with fresh fruit for a refreshing touch.

For Brunch

• Arrange on a platter with mixed cheeses and cured meats for an elegant brunch spread.
• Offer alongside a light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

With Soup

• Serve warm scones alongside your favorite soup, like tomato basil or chicken noodle, to soak up the flavors.

At Parties

• Cut into smaller pieces and serve as appetizers at gatherings for a delicious finger food option.
• Pair with a selection of dips, such as spinach artichoke or hummus, for added flavor.

How to Perfect Savory Ham & Cheese Scones

Achieving the perfect savory ham & cheese scones is easier than you think. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use cold ingredients: Ensure your butter and buttermilk are cold to achieve that flaky texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until the dough comes together; overworking it can lead to tough scones.
• Chill before baking: Refrigerating the shaped scones helps them hold their shape while baking.
• Experiment with cheese: Try different cheeses like Gruyère or pepper jack for unique flavors.
• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to add more herbs or spices according to your taste preferences.
• Serve fresh: For the best taste and texture, enjoy them shortly after baking.

Best Side Dishes for Savory Ham & Cheese Scones

Savory ham & cheese scones can be complemented by various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the scones.
2. Tomato Basil Soup: The acidity of this soup pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the scones.
3. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the salty ham and cheese.
4. Crispy Bacon Strips: For those who love extra protein, bacon adds crunch and flavor that meshes well with the scone’s ingredients.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and depth, making your meal more wholesome.
6. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries in a glass for a sweet, creamy side dish that complements the savory notes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making savory ham & cheese scones, a few common mistakes can lead to unsatisfactory results. Here are some tips to ensure your scones turn out perfectly.

• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using room temperature or warm ingredients instead of cold can result in less flaky scones. Always use cold buttermilk and frozen butter.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much makes the scones tough. Combine just until the ingredients come together for a tender texture.
• Skipping the refrigeration step: Not chilling the dough before baking can lead to flat scones. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes for better rise.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can make scones dense. Always spoon and level flour when measuring for accuracy.
• Cutting scones unevenly: Irregular sizes can cause uneven baking. Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut uniform wedges.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover scones in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Savory Ham & Cheese Scones

• You can freeze unbaked or baked scones.
• Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Savory Ham & Cheese Scones

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one at a time on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about savory ham & cheese scones, you’re not alone! Here are some commonly asked questions.

Can I customize savory ham & cheese scones?

Absolutely! You can substitute ham with cooked bacon or sausage, and try different cheeses like Gruyère or pepper jack.

How do I know when my scones are done?

Scones are done when they are golden brown around the edges and lightly browned on top. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Can I make these savory ham & cheese scones dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute buttermilk with a non-dairy milk mixed with vinegar (1 tablespoon of vinegar per cup of milk) and use dairy-free butter.

How should I store leftover savory ham & cheese scones?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Final Thoughts

These savory ham & cheese scones offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make them perfect for breakfast or brunch. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, whether replacing ham with bacon or adding different herbs. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!