Cheese Scone Cooking Time: How Long Does It Take?

Cheese scones are a delicious savoury treat, perfect for afternoon tea, a picnic, or as a side to soups and stews. They are easy to make and can be ready in under 30 minutes. The key to a good cheese scone is to use plenty of well-flavoured cheese and not to overwork the dough. The oven temperature is important too—a hot oven will give your scones a golden crumbly crust while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.

How to make the dough

Ingredients

First, gather your ingredients. The exact quantities may vary slightly depending on the recipe, but you will typically need:

• Self-raising flour
• Butter
• Milk
• Cheese (typically mature cheddar, but other types can be used)
• A pinch of salt
• Other optional ingredients such as cayenne pepper, mustard powder, or chives

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by mixing the dry ingredients in a large bowl. This includes the flour, salt, and any optional ingredients like cayenne pepper or mustard powder. Sift the flour into the bowl, then add the other dry ingredients and mix until they are well combined.

Step 2: Add the Butter

Cut the butter into small pieces and add it to the flour mixture. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs or breadcrumbs. This step is important because it creates a flaky texture in the scones.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Stir in the grated cheese. You can use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix it in gently. Make sure the cheese is well distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Add the Milk

Create a well in the centre of the mixture and slowly pour in the milk. Use a wooden spoon or a knife to mix it in until a soft but firm dough forms. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can make the scones tough. You may not need all of the milk, so add it gradually until you achieve the desired consistency.

Step 5: Knead the Dough

Once the dough has come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently. Handle the dough as little as possible to keep the scones soft and fluffy. You can also use a rubber spatula or spoon to bring the dough together before switching to your hands.

And that's it! You now have your cheese scone dough ready to be shaped and baked. Remember, the key to making good scones is to work the dough as little as possible and to keep the ingredients cold. Now, simply follow the rest of your chosen recipe's instructions for shaping, baking, and enjoying your delicious, freshly baked cheese scones!

How to shape the scones

Now that you have your scone dough ready, it's time to shape your scones! Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect shape and texture:

• First, make sure your work surface is lightly floured to prevent the dough from sticking. Use a rolling pin to gently roll out the dough to a thickness of about 2-3 cm. Try to handle the dough as little as possible to ensure soft and fluffy scones.
• Use a round cutter to cut out the scones. A cutter with a fluted edge will give your scones a cute, classic look. Choose a cutter size depending on how big you want your scones to be. For afternoon tea, smaller scones are preferable, while larger scones are better if you plan to make sandwiches with them. A 6-7 cm cutter is commonly used and should yield about 12 scones.
• When cutting the scones, press the cutter straight down without twisting. Twisting the cutter can cause the dough to drag sideways and affect the rise of your scones.
• Gather the dough scraps and gently press them together to cut out more scones. Try to handle the dough as little as possible to avoid overworking it.
• Place the cut scones on a lined baking sheet or tray, leaving a little space between them.
• Once you've cut out all the scones, brush the tops with a little milk or yogurt to help the cheese stick, and sprinkle with extra grated cheese for extra cheesiness.
• If you want to get creative, you can add some flavour variations to your scones. For example, sprinkle some chopped herbs, seeds, or spices on top of the scones before baking. You can also try adding ingredients like bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives to the dough before shaping the scones.
• Finally, pop your tray of shaped scones into the preheated oven and bake until they're golden and cooked through.

How long to bake for

The baking time for cheese scones varies depending on the recipe, but most sources suggest baking them for around 12-15 minutes. Some recipes give a range of 12-18 minutes or 15-20 minutes, while others specify a baking time of 20-25 minutes. It's important to note that oven temperatures may vary, so it's always a good idea to keep an eye on your scones while they're baking to avoid overcooking or burning.

To ensure your cheese scones are baked to perfection, look for visual cues such as a golden brown colour and a cooked interior. You can also test the scones with a skewer or cocktail stick; if it comes out clean, your scones are likely done.

Additionally, it's worth noting that different recipes may require slight variations in oven temperature. Most recipes suggest baking the scones at temperatures between 180-220°C, but it's important to refer to your specific recipe for the recommended temperature and baking time.

For the best results, it's recommended to preheat your oven before baking cheese scones. This helps ensure even cooking and contributes to the desired rise and crust.

How to store cheese scones

Cheese scones are best consumed on the same day they are baked. However, if stored properly, they can last for a few days. Here are some tips on how to store cheese scones:

Storing at Room Temperature

If you plan to consume the scones within a few days, store them in a sealed container at room temperature. Line the bottom of the container with a paper towel, then carefully arrange the scones on top. Place another paper towel on top of the scones before closing the container. The paper towels will help absorb any moisture, preventing the scones from becoming mushy. Keep the container in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or kitchen cabinet, and avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or heat sources.

Refrigeration

Refrigeration is not recommended for plain cheese scones as the moisture can cause them to lose their crunch and become soft. However, if your scones have perishable toppings or fillings, such as cream cheese or fresh fruit, it is best to store them in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container and consume them within a few days.

Freezing

Freezing is a good option for long-term storage. To freeze baked scones, first, let them cool completely. Then, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them uncovered for about an hour. This step helps remove excess moisture. Once frozen solid, transfer the scones to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 3 months.

You can also freeze unbaked scones. Place the uncooked scones on a baking sheet and freeze them uncovered until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When you're ready to bake them, there's no need to defrost; simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To reheat frozen scones, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes. You can also use a microwave, heating them in 15-second intervals until warm and soft. Reheating will help restore their texture and flavour.

How to serve cheese scones

Cheese scones are a versatile treat that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas on how to serve them:

Warm with Butter

The classic way to serve cheese scones is warm with butter. The warmth of the scones will help to melt the butter, creating a delicious, indulgent treat. You can also spread them with soft cheese or homemade potted cheese for an extra cheesy experience.

Savoury Spreads

If you want to get creative, you can top your cheese scones with various savoury spreads. Try something like guacamole, pesto, chutney, or pimento cheese. These spreads will add a burst of flavour to your scones and make them even more irresistible.

As a Sandwich

Cheese scones can also be used as a sandwich base. Try adding some sliced ham, smoked salmon, or a combination of both. You can even get creative and add other ingredients like sliced tomato, smashed avocado, or a dollop of relish to make a scrumptious picnic lunch.

With Soup

Cheese scones make an excellent side to a bowl of hot soup, especially on a cold winter's night. They are a nice change from bread and can be quickly made as a standby if you find yourself out of bread.

Afternoon Tea

Cheese scones can be a tasty addition to an afternoon tea spread. They can be served alongside tea sandwiches, cakes, and sweet scones. You can also make mini versions of the cheese scones to fit the occasion.

Breakfast

For a hearty breakfast, pair your cheese scone with egg and bacon. You can even create a breakfast sandwich by slicing the scone and filling it with your favourite breakfast ingredients.

Freezing and Reheating

If you have any leftover cheese scones, they can be frozen and reheated later. Simply wrap them well and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, thaw and reheat them in the oven or microwave until warm.

Frequently asked questions