These apple cheddar bacon scones are a delightful mix of sweet and savory! Filled with bits of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and juicy apple chunks, they’re perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Honestly, who can resist the combo of bacon and cheese? I love having these with a cup of coffee—they’re a tasty treat that feels like a hug in pastry form! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for the scones. If you want a healthier option, you can use whole wheat flour. Just know it may change the texture slightly—more hearty!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tang. If you prefer milder flavors, try medium cheddar or even pepper jack for a spicy kick! Vegan cheese works well too if you’re avoiding dairy.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds crunch and flavor. Turkey bacon or tempeh bacon can be great substitutes for a different but delicious twist, especially for a lighter option.
Apples: I suggest sweet-tart apples like Gala or Honeycrisp as they keep their shape and flavor well. If they’re out of season, you can use dried apples, chopped finely, for a different texture and sweetness!
Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice, let it sit for a few minutes, and voila! Plant-based milk will work, too, with the same acid additions.
What’s the Best Way to Cut Butter for Scones?
Cutting cold butter into your dry ingredients is key for flaky scones. Here’s how I do it:
- Start with very cold butter! You can even freeze it for a few minutes before cutting.
- Use a knife, pastry cutter, or your fingertips to break the butter into small pieces—about the size of peas.
- This creates pockets of fat that, when baked, will turn into steam and create that tender, flaky texture.
Remember: it’s okay to have some larger pieces of butter—those will help create a nice flaky layer as the scones bake. Just don’t over-mix after adding the buttermilk, as that will make them tough!
How to Make Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (optional, for mild spice)
- 6 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 medium apple, peeled and finely chopped (a sweet-tart apple like Gala or Honeycrisp)
- 3/4 cup buttermilk (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for baking. So in total, it will take around 35-40 minutes to have these delicious scones ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help the scones bake evenly and prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper (if you’re using it). This helps to combine the leavening agent with the flour to ensure even rising.
3. Cut in the Butter
Add the cold cubes of butter to your flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces. This step is key for that flaky texture we love!
4. Add the Good Stuff
Now it’s time to stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, and finely chopped apple. Make sure everything is evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture for a surprise in every bite!
5. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate small bowl, combine the buttermilk and maple syrup (if you decided to add it). This gives the scones a bit of sweetness, balancing out the savory flavors.
6. Mix It All Together
Pour the buttermilk mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently just until the dough comes together. Remember, don’t overmix! You want the dough to be slightly sticky but manageable.
7. Knead and Shape
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and quickly knead it a few times to bring it all together. Then, pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. This will help create uniform thickness in every scone.
8. Cut the Scones
Cut the dough into 8 equal wedges. Place them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet. This will ensure they have room to rise and cook evenly.
9. Brush and Bake
Brush the tops lightly with some extra buttermilk. This will help them get nice and golden brown while baking. Place them in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean!
10. Cool and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let the scones cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy them warm for that delightful blend of sweet apples, sharp cheddar, and savory bacon!
Happy baking!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is wonderful, you can experiment with other types like pepper jack for a spicy kick, or gouda for a smoky flavor. Just keep in mind that the cheese’s flavor will significantly influence the overall taste of the scones!
How Do I Store Leftover Scones?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure to reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their flakiness before eating.
Can I Freeze These Scones Before Baking?
Yes! You can freeze unbaked scones on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to a month. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Perfect for a quick breakfast option!
What Can I Serve with Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones?
These scones pair wonderfully with a variety of options! Enjoy them as is, or serve with a dollop of cream cheese, butter, or a side of applesauce for dipping. They also make a great accompaniment to soups and salads for a hearty lunch!
