Smoked Gouda and Chive Scones Recipe
Delight in these savory Smoked Gouda and Chive Scones that combine rich, smoky cheese with fresh herbs for a flaky, buttery treat. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a savory snack, these scones are baked to golden perfection with a crisp crust and tender interior.
- Author: Grace
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Dried Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp white granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- ¾ tsp Kosher or fine sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cold, cut into ¼ inch cubes
- 1 cup shredded smoked Gouda cheese, cold
- 2½ tbsp chopped fresh chives
- ¾ cup heavy cream (whipping cream), cold
- 2 large egg yolks, cold
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tsp heavy cream (for egg wash)
Seasoning for Topping
- ½ tsp Kosher or flaky sea salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and allow easy cleanup.
- Combine Dry Ingredients and Cut in Butter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter, then cut it into the dry mixture using a pastry blender or two forks until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter remaining for flaky texture.
- Add Cheese and Chives: Gently fold in the cold shredded smoked Gouda and chopped fresh chives, ensuring an even distribution without overworking the dough.
- Mix Wet Ingredients and Form Dough: In a separate bowl, whisk together the two egg yolks and ¾ cup cold heavy cream. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until a shaggy dough forms. Using your hands, gently knead the dough a few times in the bowl to combine any remaining dry patches, being careful not to overwork.
- Shape and Cut Dough: Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a 7-inch diameter round about 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut the dough into 8 equal wedges for classic scone shapes.
- Chill the Scones: Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart. Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill for 15 minutes. Chilling solidifies the butter, which helps create flaky layers and better rise during baking.
- Prepare Egg Wash and Season: In a small bowl, whisk together the lightly beaten egg and 1 tsp heavy cream to create an egg wash. Remove scones from the refrigerator and brush the tops with the egg wash. Sprinkle with ½ tsp kosher or flaky sea salt and ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavor and give a beautiful golden finish.
- Bake: Bake the scones in the preheated 400°F oven for 18–22 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the scones from the oven and transfer to a wire rack. Allow to cool for about 15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld and prevent burning your mouth.
Notes
- Use cold butter and cheese to ensure flaky scones with distinct layers.
- Chilling the scones before baking helps achieve better texture and rise.
- You can substitute smoked Gouda with another smoked cheese like smoked cheddar if preferred.
- For a stronger smoky flavor, consider adding a tiny bit more smoked paprika, but be cautious not to overpower the cheese taste.
- Scones are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the oven for warmth and crispness.
Keywords: scones, smoked gouda, chives, breakfast, savory scones, baking, flaky scones