These Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones are a delightful mix of sweet and savory! The juicy apples, rich cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon make every bite a tasty adventure.
Who knew scones could be so fun? They’re great for breakfast or a snack, and I love how easy they are to whip up. Just mix, bake, and enjoy a tasty treat with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for our scones, giving them structure. If you want a healthier option, you can use whole wheat flour. Just remember, it may change the texture slightly, making them denser.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a wonderful flavor. You can use mild cheddar or other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a twist.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a rich, savory touch. For a vegetarian option, consider cooked mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes. It won’t be the same, but it can still be delicious!
Apple: I love Granny Smith for its tartness. You can swap with Honeycrisp or Fuji—just use a firm variety for the best texture.
Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds moisture and a tender texture. If you don’t have any, mix 3/4 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes before using.
How Do I Get Fluffy Scones?
One of the secrets to achieving light and fluffy scones is handling the dough with care. Overmixing can make them tough. Here’s how to nail it:
- Keep your butter cold; it creates steam during baking that helps the scone rise.
- When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, combine just until they’re moistened. A few lumps are okay!
- Pat the dough gently; don’t roll it out with a rolling pin, as that can compress the layers.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be on your way to perfect scones every time!
Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (optional, for a little spice)
- 6 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped (about 5-6 slices)
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored and finely chopped (such as Granny Smith)
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and mixing the dough, followed by 18-22 minutes baking time. After baking, let the scones cool for a few minutes. In total, expect about 30-35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a round baking pan lightly. This ensures the scones don’t stick while baking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. This will ensure that all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Incorporate the Butter:
Add the cold cubed butter into the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend the butter in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with some pea-sized bits remaining for flakiness.
4. Add the Tasty Ingredients:
Now, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, and finely chopped apple until everything is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and the egg. This mixture will add moisture to your scones.
6. Bring It All Together:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Gently mix until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your scones tough.
7. Shape the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a circle about 7-8 inches in diameter and about 1 inch thick. A gentle touch is key!
8. Cut and Prepare to Bake:
Use a sharp knife to cut the circle into 8 equal triangular wedges. Carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheet or pan, giving them a little space to expand while baking.
9. Bake to Perfection:
Place the scones in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. They should be golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm for a delightful breakfast or a savory snack. Enjoy your delicious Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones!
Can I Substitute the Bacon in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you want a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes instead of bacon. For a different flavor, crumbled sausage or diced ham would work nicely, too!
How Do I Store Leftover Scones?
Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well before freezing!
Can I Freeze the Dough Before Baking?
Yes! You can freeze the shaped scones before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you bake them from frozen.
What Can I Serve with Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones?
These scones pair wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit, yogurt, or a light salad for a well-rounded meal. You might even enjoy them with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of your favorite jam!