These apple cheddar bacon scones are a yummy mix of sweet and savory! With chunks of apple, sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon, they make for a tasty treat any time of day.
Who knew scones could be so fun? They’re perfect for breakfast or brunch, and I love stealing one right out of the oven. I mean, who can resist that warm, cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is your main base for scones. If you prefer a healthier option, try whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend. Just note that gluten-free may need a bit more liquid.
Baking powder: A key leavener for getting those scones nice and fluffy! If you run out, you can use baking soda but remember to add an acid like yogurt or vinegar to balance it out.
Sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the show! For a twist, you can use pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a nuttier flavor. Make it your own!
Bacon: Crispy bacon gives that savory punch. You can substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option or even go for a plant-based bacon if you want to keep it vegetarian!
Apples: I recommend tart apples like Granny Smith for balance, but any sweet apple will work well. No apples? Try substituting with finely chopped pears or even cooked sweet potatoes.
How Do I Make Sure My Scones Are Tender?
Getting tender scones can be tricky but follow these tips to nail it:
- Keep your butter cold. Cold butter helps create flaky layers. Pop it in the freezer for a bit before cutting it in!
- Mix gently! Overmixing can lead to tough scones. Just stir until everything comes together.
- Handle the dough as little as possible. Knead it a few times to bring it together, but don’t overdo it.
- Don’t skip the buttermilk! It adds moisture and tang, making your scones deliciously soft.
Follow these tips, and you’re sure to impress with your fluffy, tender scones! Enjoy every bite!
Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon
- 1 small apple, peeled, cored, and diced
- 3/4 cup buttermilk (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 large egg
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 15-18 minutes for baking. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish, so these delicious scones can be on your table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. This will help ensure everything is evenly mixed!
3. Cut in the Butter:
Now, add the cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This is key for flaky scones!
4. Add Cheese, Bacon, and Apple:
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, and diced apple. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a separate small bowl, beat together the buttermilk and egg. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients. It’s time to bring it all together!
6. Form the Dough:
Gently stir the mixture with a fork until it just comes together. Be careful not to overmix! Then turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it very gently just a few times to bring it together.
7. Shape and Cut the Scones:
Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a small glass to cut out scones and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
8. Brush and Add Toppings:
Brush the tops of the scones with a little extra buttermilk. If you want, sprinkle some extra bacon and cheese on top for that extra flavor!
9. Bake:
Pop those scones into the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet apple, sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon!
These scones are a wonderful treat for breakfast, brunch, or any time you want a cozy snack. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is delicious, you can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick, mozzarella for a milder flavor, or even a crumbly blue cheese for something bold!
How Should 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 freeze them; just make sure to wrap them tightly. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and shape it into scones, then wrap it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great way to have fresh scones ready to go in the morning!
What If I Don’t Have Buttermilk?
No worries! If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 3/4 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, and you’ll have a perfect buttermilk substitute!
