These apple cheddar bacon scones are a delightful mix of sweet and savory! With crisp bacon bits, sharp cheddar cheese, and sweet apples, every bite is packed with flavor.
Honestly, who can resist the combo of bacon and cheese? I love having these scones for breakfast or as a snack. They’re so good, you might want to hide them from your family! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour is best for scones as it gives the right texture. If you need a gluten-free option, try a gluten-free all-purpose blend instead. I’ve found that it works well without changing the flavor much.
Butter: Cold unsalted butter is crucial for flaky scones. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with margarine, but it’s not quite the same. I always stick with butter for that rich flavor!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a wonderful flavor kick. If you want a milder taste, go for a medium cheddar or even a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar for variation.
Bacon: Use regular or turkey bacon based on dietary preferences. You can also try crispy pancetta or omit it for a vegetarian version. Adjusting the amount of bacon can cater to your taste!
Apple: A tart apple like Granny Smith works great, but you can swap in any sweet apple you love. I sometimes use a Fuji apple for added sweetness, which balances the savory flavors nicely!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Fluffy Scones?
The key to fluffy scones lies in the mixing and baking techniques. Keep the butter cold and avoid overmixing the dough. Here’s how to get them just right:
- When you cut in the butter, aim for pea-sized pieces for flaky layers.
- Mix until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few dry spots; don’t worry!
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps with rising.
Letting the scones cool slightly after baking helps the flavors settle, making them even more delicious. Enjoy your baking!
How to Make Apple Cheddar Bacon Scones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 strips bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
- 1 small apple, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
- 3/4 cup heavy cream, plus extra for brushing
- 1 large egg
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, with an additional baking time of 18-22 minutes. All in all, you can have these savory scones ready to enjoy in about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important to ensure your scones bake evenly and rise properly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a cast-iron skillet if you like.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. This will be the base for your scones, so ensure everything is combined well.
3. Cut in the Butter:
Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture. You can use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Make sure the butter stays cold to create flaky layers!
4. Add Cheese, Bacon, and Apple:
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, and chopped apple. Mix evenly so that every bite gets a bit of the good stuff!
5. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and egg. This will bring moisture to the dough.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently mix until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until everything is together.
7. Shape the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Gently pat it into a round shape about 1 inch thick. This step helps shape the scones nicely for cutting.
8. Cut the Scones:
Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 6 to 8 wedges. Place the wedges on your prepared baking sheet or skillet, leaving a little space between each piece.
9. Brush with Cream:
Lightly brush the tops of the scones with extra heavy cream. This gives them a beautiful golden color as they bake.
10. Bake the Scones:
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing during this time!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm with butter or your favorite beverage for a delightful treat.
This recipe yields delicious scones bursting with savory bacon, sharp cheddar, and sweet apple bits throughout, perfect for a hearty breakfast or snack. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is recommended for its flavor, you can also use mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a different taste. Just pick your favorite!
How Do I Store Leftover Scones?
Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just reheat in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their freshness!
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just cut the dough into wedges and proceed as usual. You might need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if the dough is chilled.
Is It Possible to Freeze These Scones?
Definitely! You can freeze unbaked scones on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake them, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time without thawing.
