The rich aroma of freshly baked goods wafting from the oven transports me back to cozy kitchen moments, where the sound of sizzling bacon mingles with warm, cheesy delight. Today, I’m excited to share my incredibly simple recipe for Cheddar Bacon Scones—a savory treat that’s perfect for brunch or as a comforting side dish with soups and salads. With just a quick prep time of 15 minutes, these scones are not only a delicious way to elevate your meal but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Imagine biting into a warm, flaky scone with pockets of melted cheddar and crunchy bacon nestled inside. Curiosity piqued? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why Make Cheddar Bacon Scones?
Simplicity at its finest: You can whip these scones up in just 15 minutes, making them a perfect solution for busy mornings or spontaneous get-togethers.
Depth of flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and crispy bacon creates a savory bliss that’s hard to resist, giving your taste buds an irresistible treat.
Versatile pairing: These scones complement a variety of dishes, from soups and salads to your favorite brunch spreads. Serve them warm with extra butter for a splendid treat.
Crowd favorite: Whether at a brunch gathering or a cozy dinner, these scones are a guaranteed hit with family and friends. They’ll be asking for seconds!
If you’re a fan of quick and delicious comfort food, try pairing these scones with my Melt Cheddar Bacon for an even richer experience!
Cheddar Bacon Scone Ingredients
• Gather these must-haves for a savory delight!
For the Scones
- Bacon – Adds savory flavor and richness; cook and crumble before use.
- All-purpose flour – Provides the structure and base for the scones; measure accurately for the best texture.
- Sugar – Balances the savory flavors; can be omitted or reduced for less sweetness.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust if using salted bacon.
- Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent for rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Cheddar cheese – Offers a sharp, cheesy flavor; freshly grated cheese melts better.
- Scallions – Adds a fresh, onion-like flavor; substitute with chives for a milder taste.
- Butter – Enriches the dough, creating a flaky texture; grating makes incorporation easy.
- Heavy cream – Provides moisture and richness; substitute with milk or buttermilk for a lighter version.
These hearty Cheddar Bacon Scones come together effortlessly to create a wonderful treat that’ll become a family favorite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheddar Bacon Scones
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly greasing a baking sheet with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper. This will ensure that your delightful Cheddar Bacon Scones won’t stick during baking. Set the prepared baking sheet aside while you move on to mixing your dry ingredients.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. This step is crucial as it evenly distributes the leavening agent, which is vital for fluffy scones. Once combined, fold in the grated cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped scallions, ensuring each piece is well coated with flour for consistent flavor throughout your scones.
Step 3: Incorporate the Butter
Next, grab your cold grated butter and add it to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is essential as it creates the tenderness and flakiness you’re looking for in your Cheddar Bacon Scones. Make sure not to overmix, as this can lead to tough scones.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Create a well in the center of your mixture and pour in about 2/3 cup of heavy cream. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the mixture together until it forms a shaggy dough. If needed, slowly add more cream until the dough is moist but not sticky. This balance is key for shaping perfect scones!
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Being careful not to overwork the dough will keep your Cheddar Bacon Scones tender. Once shaped, cut the circle into 8 equal triangles, ensuring that each piece will bake evenly and golden brown.
Step 6: Bake the Scones
Arrange the triangles on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each scone for expansion. Place the sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the tops are firm to the touch. The inviting aroma of bacon and cheese will fill your kitchen, an excellent sign that your scones are close to perfection.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the Cheddar Bacon Scones from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This cooling time helps set the texture. Then, transfer the scones to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm, preferably with a pat of butter, for the best experience!
Cheddar Bacon Scones Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play around with these delightful scones and make them your own with these tasty twists!
-
Sausage Swap: Replace bacon with cooked sausage for a heartier flavor that will satisfy meat lovers. It’s a new take that’s sure to please.
-
Cheese Change: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Pepper Jack for a unique flavor twist that adds your personal touch.
-
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the aroma. Herbs can truly transform these scones into a fragrant delight.
-
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, incorporate chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. This adds an exciting layer of flavor that balances the richness of the cheese.
-
Veggie Boost: Toss in some finely diced bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a deliciously colorful twist. These veggies bring freshness and extra nutrition.
-
Dairy-Free Option: To make these scones dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil and use non-dairy milk instead of heavy cream. Your scones will still turn out delightful!
-
Sweet Twist: Want something sweeter? Add a teaspoon of honey to your dough for a hint of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory bacon.
If you’re looking for even more scrumptious ideas, try these scones alongside my Chicken Bacon Ranch for a hearty meal! Or, pair them with my Popper Eggrolls Bacon for a delicious appetizer option!
How to Store and Freeze Cheddar Bacon Scones
Room Temperature: Store the freshly baked scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and delicious for your next snack or meal.
Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, store in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven to restore texture and warmth.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the scones for up to 2 months. Wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for best preservation.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply reheat from frozen for 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. These Cheddar Bacon Scones will taste just as delightful as when they were fresh!
What to Serve with Cheddar Bacon Scones?
These delightful morsels create a warm and inviting meal experience that dances on your palate with every bite.
-
Creamy Tomato Soup: Topped with fresh basil, it beautifully contrasts the savory scones for a comforting combo. Perfect for a cozy evening!
-
Mixed Green Salad: A vibrant salad with tangy vinaigrette enhances the dish’s richness, providing a fresh crunch that refreshes the palate.
-
Garlic Herb Butter: Spread on warm scones, this indulgent butter brings a delightful depth of flavor that elevates each bite.
-
Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy, cheesy eggs with herbs pair perfectly, adding protein to balance the savory scone flavors for brunch perfection!
-
Honey Butter: A drizzle of sweetness over the scone makes for a delightful treat, combining rich and sweet elements that delight the senses.
-
Sparkling Apple Cider: A bubbly drink that complements the strong flavors of cheese and bacon, making it a festive pairing for any occasion.
-
Spicy Aioli: This zesty dip adds a kick to your scones, creating a layered flavor experience that’s sure to impress at your next gathering.
-
Bacon Jam: Sweet and savory, this unique spread enhances the bacon flavor in the scones while adding a sticky sweetness that excites the taste buds.
-
Fresh Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits balances the savory richness of the scones, providing a refreshing and light element to the meal.
With these wonderful pairings, you create an unforgettable meal that leaves everyone satisfied and smiling!
Expert Tips for Cheddar Bacon Scones
-
Measure Accurately: Ensure that your flour is measured properly; too much can lead to dense scones. Use a kitchen scale for consistent results.
-
Chill the Ingredients: Use very cold butter and cream to promote flakiness; warmed ingredients can lead to tough scones.
-
Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold the dough until just combined. Overmixing creates gluten, resulting in chewy, less desirable scones.
-
Adjust for Saltiness: If your bacon is particularly salty, reduce the added salt in the recipe to prevent overly salty scones.
-
Serve Warm: Enjoy your Cheddar Bacon Scones fresh out of the oven for the best texture and flavor. They can also be reheated for a delightful snack!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheddar Bacon Scones are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a warm treat without the morning rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by shaping the scones and placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the tray tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep the dough fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just pop them directly into a preheated oven; they’ll bake up just as delicious as if made fresh! For longer storage, you can freeze the shaped scones for up to 3 months and bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for perfect, flaky results. This simple prep will save you time and stress on busy mornings!
Cheddar Bacon Scones Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for the scones?
Absolutely! When selecting your bacon, look for slices that have a good balance of fat and meat — this gives the scones a savory richness. For the cheese, fresh, block cheddar is best since it melts beautifully and has superior flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties. The scallions should be crisp and bright green; avoid any that are wilted or have dark spots.
Advertisement
How should I store leftover scones and for how long?
You can store freshly baked Cheddar Bacon Scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you wish to keep them longer, place them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember to reheat them in the oven to restore their glorious texture—about 5-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) does the trick beautifully!
Can I freeze Cheddar Bacon Scones?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap each cooled scone tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, and they’ll taste just as delightful as the day they were baked!
What if my scones turn out too dense?
Don’t worry—this can happen! If your scones are dense, it’s often due to overmixing. Next time, mix the dough just until combined, and avoid measuring flour by scooping directly from the bag, which can pack it. Instead, spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off for an accurate measurement. Your factor for flakiness starts even before the mixing!
Are these scones suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Great question! The scones can be adjusted for some dietary preferences; for gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. For dairy-free versions, try using plant-based butter and cream alternatives. Just be mindful of any bacon substitutes, as options like turkey bacon may differ in flavor and texture.
Can I make the scone dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the scone dough in advance, shape the dough, and then freeze it before baking. To do this, prepare the dough as usual, shape it into a circle, and cut it into triangles. Freeze the shaped scones on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few additional minutes to the baking time when ready to enjoy your Cheddar Bacon Scones!
Savory Cheddar Bacon Scones for Quick Comfort Food Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or line with parchment.
- Whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder in a mixing bowl. Fold in cheese, bacon, and scallions.
- Add cold grated butter to the dry mixture and work into flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Create a well in the mixture and pour in heavy cream. Fold until it forms a shaggy dough, adding more cream as needed.
- Transfer dough to a floured surface and pat into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut into 8 triangles.
- Arrange triangles on a baking sheet, leaving space for expansion, and bake for about 25 minutes.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack before serving.
