These Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones are a delicious mix of sweet and salty! With bits of crispy bacon, chunks of apple, and sharp cheddar, they make a perfect snack or breakfast treat.
Honestly, who can resist the combo of apple and bacon? I love enjoying these warm with a little butter on top. They’re so easy to whip up, and your kitchen will smell amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your scones. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. If you prefer something milder, choose medium cheddar, or for a twist, try pepper jack for a bit of heat!
Bacon: Cooked bacon gives a lovely crunch. You could swap it for turkey bacon or even diced ham if you’re after a healthier take.
Apple: I recommend a tart apple like Granny Smith for balance with the cheese. You can replace it with pears for a different flavor, or omit it for a simpler scone.
Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
What’s the Best Way to Cut in Butter for Scones?
Cutting in butter is crucial for ensuring your scones are flaky. Here’s the scoop:
- Use cold unsalted butter for the best results. Keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
- Cut it into small cubes before adding to the flour mixture. This helps it incorporate more evenly.
- Use a pastry cutter, forks, or your fingertips to break the butter into the flour. Aim for a crumbly texture—tiny pea-sized or smaller pieces are ideal.
- Don’t overwork the mixture; handling it too much can make your scones tough instead of light.
Keep these tips in mind, and your scones will turn out flaky and delicious every time!
Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 small apple, peeled, cored, and diced (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15-18 minutes to bake. So you’ll be enjoying your warm scones in about 30 minutes total! Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to help prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and black pepper. This combo will give your scones that perfect fluffy texture.
3. Cut in the Butter:
Now it’s time to add the cold butter! Using either a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix the butter into the flour mixture until it looks like coarse crumbs. This step is really important for that flaky texture in your scones, so don’t rush it!
4. Add Cheese, Bacon, and Apple:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, and diced apple until everything is well mixed. The combination of flavors is going to be amazing!
5. Combine with Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and the egg until they’re nice and combined. Pour this wet mixture into your dry ingredients and gently stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until the dough just comes together. It should be a little sticky—avoid overmixing!
6. Shape the Scones:
Using a spoon or scoop, drop the dough in mounds onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If you want, sprinkle a little extra cheddar and bacon bits on top of each scone for a pretty finish.
7. Bake and Cool:
Pop the scones in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on top. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center of one; it should come out clean. Once they’re ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delicious scones warm or at room temperature. They’re excellent on their own, or you can enjoy them with a little butter or your favorite spread. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat!
Happy baking!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used for a heartier scone! Keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly, making them denser. You can also try using half all-purpose flour and half whole wheat for the best balance.
How Do I Store Leftover Scones?
Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week or freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to reheat them in the oven for the best texture!
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and scoop it onto the baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate it for up to a day. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven—no need to thaw!
Is It Possible to Add Additional Ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to customize your scones by adding other ingredients like nuts, dried fruits, or different types of cheese. Just keep in mind that additional moisture from ingredients like peaches or zucchini might require adjusting the flour slightly.
