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Crispy Ham & Cheese Scones

crispy ham cheese scones - featured image

These crispy ham & cheese scones are a quick and easy savory snack with a flaky, buttery crust and a gooey, cheesy ham filling. Perfect for brunch, potlucks, or a cozy treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1 cup (100g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ¾ cup (100g) deli ham, diced
  • ¾ cup (180ml) whole milk or buttermilk
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and smoked paprika if using.
  3. Add cold cubed butter to the flour mixture. Cut the butter into the flour using a pastry cutter or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces.
  4. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and diced ham evenly into the flour-butter mixture.
  5. Pour in milk or buttermilk and stir gently with a fork until the dough just begins to come together. Add more milk by tablespoon if dough is too dry.
  6. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead 5-6 times to bring it together without overworking.
  7. Pat dough into a 1-inch thick round. Cut into 8 equal wedges or use a 2.5-inch round cutter for individual scones.
  8. Transfer wedges to the lined baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart. Brush tops with beaten egg.
  9. Bake for 15-18 minutes until scones are puffed and golden brown.
  10. Remove from oven and transfer to a cooling rack. Cool at least 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Keep butter cold to ensure flaky texture. Do not overmix dough to avoid tough scones. Use egg wash for a golden, crispy crust. If dough warms too much, chill in fridge before shaping. Reheat in oven to restore crispiness; avoid microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: ham and cheese scones, savory scones, crispy scones, easy snack, brunch recipe, cheesy scones