Savory Bacon Cheddar Scones are a delicious twist on classic scones, blending crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a hint of chives into a buttery, flaky dough. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a savory snack, these scones are incredibly versatile and irresistibly satisfying. Whether served warm with butter or paired with a hearty soup, they’re sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• 6 tbsp (85g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 cup (115g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tbsp chives, finely chopped
• ¾ cup (180ml) buttermilk, plus extra for brushing
• 1 large egg, beaten (for brushing)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
3. Cut in the Butter:
   Add the cold butter cubes to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add Cheese, Bacon, and Chives:
   Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped chives until evenly distributed.
5. Incorporate the Buttermilk:
   Gradually pour in the buttermilk, mixing gently with a wooden spoon or your hands until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Shape the Dough:
   Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead a few times. Pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut the dough into 8 wedges.
7. Prepare for Baking:
   Arrange the scones on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Brush the tops with the beaten egg or a little buttermilk for a golden finish.
8. Bake:
   Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and cooked through. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

• Storage: Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
• Substitutions: Swap the cheddar for another cheese, like Gruyère or Parmesan, and replace chives with green onions if preferred.
• Add-ins: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a handful of sautéed onions to the dough.
• Serving Suggestions: These scones pair beautifully with soups, stews, or a dollop of herb butter.

Enjoy these Savory Bacon Cheddar Scones fresh from the oven for a flaky, cheesy, and utterly satisfying treat!