Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Incorporate Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, incorporate the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, finely chopped parsley, chives, and dried thyme. Ensure that the cheese and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Form Dough: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Gently mix until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can result in dense scones.
- Shape the Scones: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a circle, approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick.
- Cut Into Rounds: Using a floured round cutter, cut out scones from the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small gap between each scone.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the scones with the beaten egg to give them a golden brown finish when baked.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the scones are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.
- Serve Warm: Allow the scones to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve the savoury scones warm with a dollop of butter or cream cheese.
Conclusion: These Herb and Cheese Savoury Scones are a wonderful treat that combines the buttery richness of traditional scones with the savory goodness of cheese and herbs. Perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or as a side to your favorite soups, these scones are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as you bake up a batch of these savory delights.