12 Savory Scones for Every Occasion
Welcome to the ultimate guide for savory scone lovers. While many associate scones with sweet jams and clotted cream, the savory side of this flaky pastry offers a world of culinary possibilities. From sharp cheeses and fresh herbs to smoky meats and spicy peppers, these twelve recipes are designed to elevate your breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea experience. Each recipe focuses on achieving that perfect crumbly texture while packing a punch of savory flavor. Whether you are hosting a formal gathering or looking for a quick lunch accompaniment, these scones provide the perfect balance of richness and seasoning. Prepare your baking sheets and preheat your oven as we dive into these delicious, homemade creations.
Cheddar and Fresh Chive Scones
A timeless classic featuring sharp white cheddar cheese and the delicate onion notes of fresh garden chives. These scones are incredibly buttery and pair perfectly with a hot bowl of tomato soup or a morning cup of coffee.
Ingredients
- •2 cups all-purpose flour
- •1 tablespoon baking powder
- •1 teaspoon salt
- •1/2 cup cold unsalted butter cubed
- •1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- •1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- •3/4 cup heavy cream plus extra for brushing
Method
- 1
1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- 2
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined and aerated.
- 3
3. Using a pastry cutter or two forks, work the cold cubed butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces remaining.
- 4
4. Gently fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the finely chopped fresh chives until they are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- 5
5. Pour in the heavy cream and stir with a fork just until a shaggy dough begins to form, being careful not to overwork the gluten.
- 6
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into an 8-inch circle that is about one inch thick.
- 7
7. Use a sharp knife to cut the circle into 8 even wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- 8
8. Brush the tops of the scones with a little extra heavy cream and bake for 18 to 22 minutes until they are golden brown on top and bottom.
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Smoky Bacon and Scallion Scones
These hearty scones are packed with crispy bacon bits and bright green scallions. The saltiness of the bacon infuses the entire dough, making these a favorite for breakfast enthusiasts who crave something substantial.
Ingredients
- •2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- •1 tablespoon baking powder
- •1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- •1/2 cup cold salted butter
- •6 slices cooked bacon crumbled
- •3 green onions thinly sliced
- •1/2 cup sour cream
- •1/4 cup whole milk
Method
- 1
1. Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and preparing a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper.
- 2
2. Combine the flour, baking powder, and freshly ground black pepper in a bowl, ensuring the pepper is evenly distributed for a consistent spice level.
- 3
3. Cut the cold salted butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender until the mixture is crumbly and the butter is the size of small peas.
- 4
4. Add the crumbled bacon and the sliced green onions to the bowl, tossing them lightly to coat each piece in flour.
- 5
5. In a small separate container, whisk together the sour cream and milk until smooth, then pour this into the dry mixture.
- 6
6. Mix the dough gently with a spatula until it just comes together, then transfer it to a floured work surface.
- 7
7. Shape the dough into a rectangle and cut into 10 smaller rectangles or triangles depending on your preference.
- 8
8. Arrange the pieces on the baking sheet and bake for approximately 20 minutes until the edges are crisp and the centers are fully set.
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Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Scones
Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, these scones combine the tangy punch of feta cheese with the concentrated sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. They are vibrant, colorful, and exceptionally moist.
Ingredients
- •2 cups all-purpose flour
- •1 tablespoon baking powder
- •1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- •1/2 cup cold unsalted butter
- •1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- •1/3 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes patted dry and chopped
- •1 large egg
- •1/2 cup buttermilk
Method
- 1
1. Set your oven temperature to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and get your baking sheet ready with parchment paper.
- 2
2. Sift the flour, baking powder, and dried oregano into a large bowl to ensure there are no lumps and the herbs are well mixed.
- 3
3. Incorporate the cold butter into the dry mixture using your fingertips or a pastry cutter until the dough looks like coarse meal.
- 4
4. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese and the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, making sure to separate any tomato pieces that stick together.
- 5
5. Whisk the egg and buttermilk together in a small bowl, then slowly pour the liquid into the flour mixture while stirring.
- 6
6. Knead the dough very briefly on a floured surface just to bring it together, then flatten it into a thick disc.
- 7
7. Slice the disc into 8 triangles and place them at least two inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- 8
8. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes or until the scones are a light golden color and feel firm to the touch.
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Rosemary and Parmesan Cheese Scones
Elegant and aromatic, these scones use fresh rosemary and aged Parmesan to create a sophisticated flavor profile. They are the perfect accompaniment to a glass of wine or a charcuterie board.
Ingredients
- •2 cups all-purpose flour
- •1 tablespoon baking powder
- •1 teaspoon sugar
- •1/2 cup cold unsalted butter
- •3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- •1 tablespoon fresh rosemary finely minced
- •3/4 cup cold whole milk
Method
- 1
1. Heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- 2
2. Combine the flour, baking powder, and sugar in a large bowl, whisking to ensure the leavening agent is perfectly distributed.
- 3
3. Add the cold butter cubes and process with a pastry blender until the mixture consists of small, sandy crumbs.
- 4
4. Fold in the grated Parmesan cheese and the minced fresh rosemary so that the fragrance is spread throughout the dough.
- 5
5. Pour in the cold milk and stir gently with a wooden spoon until a soft dough forms, being careful not to over-mix.
- 6
6. Turn the dough onto a floured surface, pat it into a square shape about an inch thick, and cut into 9 smaller squares.
- 7
7. Place the squares on the baking sheet and optionally sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for a cheesy crust.
- 8
8. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the tops are deeply golden and the cheese has created a crisp exterior.
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Caramelized Onion and Gruyere Scones
The sweetness of slowly caramelized onions pairs beautifully with the nutty, melting quality of Gruyere cheese. These scones are rich, savory, and have a wonderfully complex flavor.
Ingredients
- •2 cups all-purpose flour
- •1 tablespoon baking powder
- •1/2 teaspoon salt
- •1/2 cup cold unsalted butter
- •1/2 cup caramelized onions cooled completely
- •1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- •3/4 cup heavy cream
Method
- 1
1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper or a light dusting of flour.
- 2
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt together until the dry ingredients are fully incorporated.
- 3
3. Work the cold butter into the flour using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse sand with some larger butter bits.
- 4
4. Gently stir in the shredded Gruyere and the cooled caramelized onions, ensuring the onions are broken up and not in one large clump.
- 5
5. Add the heavy cream and stir with a fork until the dough just starts to come together into a moist mass.
- 6
6. Place the dough on a floured board and gently press it into a circle about 8 inches in diameter.
- 7
7. Cut the circle into 8 wedges using a bench scraper or a sharp knife and transfer them to the baking sheet.
- 8
8. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the scones are puffed up and the cheese has turned a beautiful golden brown color.
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Spicy Jalapeno and Sharp Cheddar Scones
For those who enjoy a little heat, these scones feature fresh jalapenos and sharp cheddar. The spice is manageable but present, making them a great side for chili or grilled meats.
Ingredients
- •2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- •1 tablespoon baking powder
- •1/2 teaspoon salt
- •1/2 cup cold unsalted butter
- •2 fresh jalapenos seeded and finely diced
- •1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- •3/4 cup buttermilk
Method
- 1
1. Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
2. Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl, ensuring the dry base is well aerated.
- 3
3. Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture with a pastry cutter until it looks like coarse crumbs.
- 4
4. Add the finely diced jalapenos and the shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl, tossing them with the flour mixture.
- 5
5. Pour the buttermilk over the ingredients and stir with a fork until a sticky dough forms.
- 6
6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and pat it into a rectangle, then fold it over itself once or twice to create layers.
- 7
7. Cut the dough into 10 triangles and arrange them on your prepared baking sheet with space in between.
- 8
8. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and the scones are a deep golden yellow.
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Basil Pesto and Pine Nut Scones
These scones are infused with the vibrant flavors of basil pesto and the crunch of toasted pine nuts. They have a beautiful green swirl and a rich, nutty finish.
Ingredients
- •2 cups all-purpose flour
- •1 tablespoon baking powder
- •1/2 teaspoon salt
- •1/2 cup cold unsalted butter
- •1/4 cup prepared basil pesto
- •1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- •2/3 cup whole milk
Method
- 1
1. Heat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
2. Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl and whisk them together thoroughly.
- 3
3. Incorporate the cold butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender until the mixture is crumbly.
- 4
4. Add the toasted pine nuts to the flour mixture and toss to combine.
- 5
5. Mix the pesto and milk together in a small jug, then pour this into the dry ingredients.
- 6
6. Stir the mixture until a soft dough forms, then turn it out onto a floured surface and pat it into a circle.
- 7
7. Cut the circle into 8 wedges and place them on the baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch.
- 8
8. Bake for 20 to 23 minutes until the scones are firm and have a light golden hue on the edges.
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Everything Bagel Seasoning Scones
Capturing the popular flavor of an everything bagel, these scones are topped with a crunchy mix of poppy seeds, sesame seeds, garlic, and onion. They are savory, textured, and delicious.
Ingredients
- •2 cups all-purpose flour
- •1 tablespoon baking powder
- •1/2 teaspoon salt
- •1/2 cup cold unsalted butter
- •4 ounces cold cream cheese cubed
- •2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
- •3/4 cup heavy cream
Method
- 1
1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
2. Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl until perfectly combined.
- 3
3. Cut in the cold butter and the cold cubed cream cheese until the mixture is crumbly with some larger chunks of cream cheese still visible.
- 4
4. Stir in one tablespoon of the everything bagel seasoning into the dough itself.
- 5
5. Add the heavy cream and mix until the dough just comes together, then transfer to a floured surface.
- 6
6. Shape the dough into a disc and cut into 8 wedges, then place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- 7
7. Brush the tops with a bit of cream and sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of seasoning generously over each scone.
- 8
8. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the scones are puffed and the seasoning is toasted and fragrant.
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Smoked Ham and Swiss Cheese Scones
A classic deli-style flavor profile in a flaky pastry form. The smokiness of the ham and the mild melt of the Swiss cheese make these scones incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
- •2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- •1 tablespoon baking powder
- •1/4 teaspoon ground mustard
- •1/2 cup cold unsalted butter
- •1/2 cup diced smoked ham
- •1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- •3/4 cup buttermilk
Method
- 1
1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- 2
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and ground mustard to provide a subtle depth of flavor.
- 3
3. Using a pastry cutter, work the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
- 4
4. Fold in the diced smoked ham and the shredded Swiss cheese until they are evenly distributed.
- 5
5. Pour in the buttermilk and stir with a fork until a shaggy dough forms, taking care not to over-work the mixture.
- 6
6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently pat it into a rectangle about 1 inch thick.
- 7
7. Cut the dough into 8 to 10 rectangles or triangles and move them to the prepared baking sheet.
- 8
8. Bake for 20 to 22 minutes until the scones are golden brown and the cheese is melted and crispy at the edges.
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Spinach and Ricotta Breakfast Scones
These scones are exceptionally tender thanks to the addition of creamy ricotta cheese. Packed with chopped spinach, they are a great way to start your day with some greens.
Ingredients
- •2 cups all-purpose flour
- •1 tablespoon baking powder
- •1/2 teaspoon salt
- •1/2 cup cold unsalted butter
- •1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach squeezed dry
- •1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- •1/4 cup heavy cream
Method
- 1
1. Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
2. Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a large bowl until the mixture is uniform.
- 3
3. Cut the cold butter into the flour using a pastry blender until you have a crumbly texture.
- 4
4. Stir in the finely chopped and dried spinach, ensuring it is well-separated within the flour.
- 5
5. In a separate small bowl, whisk the ricotta cheese and heavy cream together until smooth, then add to the dry ingredients.
- 6
6. Mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms, then turn it out onto a well-floured surface.
- 7
7. Pat the dough into a circle and cut into 8 wedges, placing them on the baking sheet with ample space.
- 8
8. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes until the scones are lightly browned and the centers are cooked through.
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Goat Cheese and Dried Fig Scones
A sophisticated balance of tangy goat cheese and sweet dried figs. These scones offer a gourmet flavor profile that is perfect for a fancy brunch or an evening appetizer.
Ingredients
- •2 cups all-purpose flour
- •1 tablespoon baking powder
- •1/2 teaspoon salt
- •1/2 cup cold unsalted butter
- •4 ounces crumbled goat cheese
- •1/2 cup chopped dried figs
- •3/4 cup heavy cream
Method
- 1
1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
2. Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl to create the base for the dough.
- 3
3. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture is crumbly, then gently fold in the chopped dried figs.
- 4
4. Add the crumbled goat cheese last, tossing very lightly so the cheese remains in distinct small chunks.
- 5
5. Pour in the heavy cream and stir with a fork until the dough just begins to clump together.
- 6
6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and pat into a circle, then cut into 8 even wedges.
- 7
7. Arrange the wedges on the baking sheet and bake for 18 to 22 minutes.
- 8
8. The scones are done when they are golden on the edges and the goat cheese has softened but kept its shape.
Kalamata Olive and Herb Scones
These savory scones are bursting with the salty, briny flavor of Kalamata olives and a blend of dried Mediterranean herbs. They are excellent for dipping into olive oil or serving with hummus.
Ingredients
- •2 cups all-purpose flour
- •1 tablespoon baking powder
- •1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- •1/2 cup cold unsalted butter
- •1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives
- •1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- •3/4 cup buttermilk
Method
- 1
1. Heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
2. Combine the flour, baking powder, and dried herbs in a bowl, whisking to distribute the seasoning.
- 3
3. Work the cold butter into the flour mixture until it reaches a coarse, sandy consistency.
- 4
4. Stir in the chopped Kalamata olives and the grated Pecorino Romano cheese until well combined.
- 5
5. Pour in the buttermilk and stir until a dough forms, ensuring all the dry bits are incorporated.
- 6
6. Transfer the dough to a floured surface, pat it into a disc, and cut it into 8 triangles.
- 7
7. Place the triangles on the baking sheet and bake for 20 to 22 minutes.
- 8
8. Serve warm to appreciate the full aroma of the herbs and the saltiness of the olives.
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Wrapping Up
We hope you enjoy exploring these twelve unique savory scone recipes. From the classic pairing of cheddar and chive to the more sophisticated flavors of goat cheese and fig, there is a savory scone here for everyone. Remember that the secret to a great scone is keeping your ingredients cold and handling the dough as little as possible. These pastries freeze beautifully and can be reheated easily for a quick snack or a side dish for soups and salads. Happy baking, and may your kitchen always be filled with the irresistible aroma of fresh, savory pastries.