These sharp cheddar and chive sourdough scones are fluffy and cheesy with a hint of oniony goodness. They’re perfect for breakfast or tea time!
Plus, who can resist that warm, cheesy smell filling the kitchen? I love grabbing one right out of the oven—so delicious with just a bit of butter! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is the base for the scones, giving them structure. If you want a healthier option, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may make them denser.
Sourdough starter: Using an unfed sourdough starter adds flavor and helps with texture. If you don’t have one, you can substitute with plain yogurt or an equal amount of buttermilk, though it will change the taste slightly.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is key for that rich, cheesy flavor. If you prefer something milder, try mild cheddar, or mix in some grated Parmesan for a unique twist!
Chives: Fresh chives give a lovely oniony kick. If you can’t find fresh chives, green onions or even dried herbs like thyme could work. Just adjust the amount to your taste.
Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds moisture and tanginess. You can make a quick substitute by mixing regular milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for a few minutes.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture for Your Scones?
Getting scones just right can be tricky, but here are some tips to help you out:
- Keep Everything Cold: It’s crucial to use cold butter. This helps create flaky layers. You can even chill the flour and mixing bowl if you want!
- Don’t Overmix: When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just enough to moisten everything. Overmixing can lead to tough scones.
- Knead Lightly: Gently knead the dough a few times until it comes together. Too much handling can make the scones dense.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have light, fluffy scones that everyone will love!
Sharp Cheddar And Chive Sourdough Scones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter (discard or active, unfed)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (plus extra for brushing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, giving you a total of around 30-35 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a delicious treat without too much fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will make clean-up a breeze!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. This will ensure everything is well combined before adding in the wet ingredients.
3. Incorporate the Butter:
Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to break the butter into the flour until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This is key to making your scones flaky!
4. Add Cheese and Chives:
Stir the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and chopped chives into the dough. Make sure they are evenly distributed so every bite is cheesy and flavorful!
5. Combine Wet Ingredients:
Add the sourdough starter and buttermilk to the mixture. Stir gently just until combined. Be careful not to overmix — you want your scones to stay light and fluffy!
6. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together in a cohesive ball. Avoid overworking it, so the scones remain tender.
7. Shape the Dough:
Pat the dough into a circle that is about 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife to cut the dough into 8 equal wedges, like a pizza!
8. Bake the Scones:
Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Brush the tops lightly with buttermilk for that golden brown finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the scones cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of sharp cheddar and fresh chives!
Enjoy your flaky, cheesy sourdough scones with the delightful flavor of fresh chives! Perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack! 😊
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives a great flavor, you can try using gouda, pepper jack, or even a mixture of cheeses for a different taste. Just make sure to keep the amount the same (1 1/2 cups) for the best texture.
Can I Make These Scones Vegan?
Yes! To make these scones vegan, you can replace the butter with a vegan butter substitute and use a non-dairy milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice instead of buttermilk. Check that your sourdough starter is also vegan-friendly!
How Should I Store Leftover Scones?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the oven or toaster oven to bring back their fluffiness!
Can I Add Other Herbs or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize these scones with additional ingredients like chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooked bacon bits, or different herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor. Just remember to keep the total mix-ins balanced to maintain the right texture!