Scones have a special place in my heart, especially the savory ones. They’re perfect for brunch, a hearty snack, or even a quick lunch. If you love cheese, garlic, and buttery pastries, this recipe will make your taste buds sing. Don’t be intimidated! These savory scones are surprisingly simple, even for beginner bakers.

The best thing about scones? They’re super versatile! With just a few tweaks, you can customize the flavors to suit your preferences or use what’s in your fridge.

Why Savory Scones are a Game Changer

Most people think of scones as sweet treats, often served with jam or clotted cream. But savory scones are equally delightful and incredibly practical. These savory scones with chives, garlic, ham, and cheese have a bold flavor that stands out.

Perfectly golden and flaky, they make a great on-the-go breakfast or an addition to your brunch table. Plus, they pair wonderfully with soups and salads, making them an excellent side dish.

The Star Ingredients

Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore the key ingredients that make these savory scones so special.

1. Chives

Fresh chives add a mild onion-like flavor, making the scones taste fresh and savory.

2. Garlic

Garlic is the hero ingredient, bringing depth and a delightful aroma. Roasting the garlic before adding it gives an even richer flavor.

3. Ham

Cooked ham provides a smoky, salty bite. Leftover roasted chicken or crispy bacon also work as great substitutes.

4. Cheese

Sharp cheddar cheese offers a bold and tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

5. Homemade Buttermilk

Don’t have buttermilk at home? No worries! You can make it by mixing ½ tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar with ½ cup of milk. Let it sit for five minutes before using.

Recipe: Savory Scones with Chives, Garlic, Ham, and Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need for a batch of these savory delights. This recipe yields approximately 8-12 scones, depending on your size preference.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 6 tbsp cold butter, cubed
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup fresh chives, chopped
• 1 bulb garlic, chopped (roasted or raw, your choice)
• ¼ cup cooked ham, chopped
• ¼ tsp ground paprika
• ½ cup buttermilk (or substitute as explained above)
• 1 egg (for brushing)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
3. Add the Butter
   Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to rub the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Mix in the Fillings
   Add the cheddar cheese, chives, garlic, and ham. Stir until evenly distributed.
5. Incorporate the Buttermilk
   Pour the buttermilk into the dry mixture, stirring gently with a fork until a dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
6. Shape the Dough
   Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges or use a round cutter for classic scone shapes.
7. Brush and Bake
   Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a shiny, golden crust. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the scones turn golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve
   Let the scones cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.

Customization Tips

Savory scones are endlessly adaptable. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Replace ham with crispy bacon, sausage, or even smoked salmon.
• Try different cheeses like gruyere, gouda, or feta for unique flavors.
• Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for an earthy touch.
• Toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist.

Why Make These Savory Scones?

Aside from being delicious, these scones are great for meal prep. They freeze well and reheat beautifully, making them a lifesaver on busy mornings. You can also serve them alongside soups, salads, or scrambled eggs for a complete meal.

Scones are also perfect for gatherings. Bring these savory treats to a potluck, brunch party, or picnic, and watch them disappear quickly!

A Fun Baking Activity

Making these savory scones can be a fun activity to do with kids. Let them help mix the dough or cut the scones into shapes. It’s a great way to bond while teaching basic kitchen skills.

A Perfect Snack

Savory scones are proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of cheese, garlic, and ham with the freshness of chives. Perfect for snacks, breakfast, or special occasions, these savory scones deserve a spot in your recipe rotation.

Looking for easy savory recipes? Try making mini pizzas from scratch! Get baking! 🍕