Ham And Cheese Scones
Ham and cheese scones are a delightful savory treat, perfect for breakfast or brunch. Bursting with the bold flavors of sharp cheddar and salty ham, these scones are a delicious twist on traditional recipes. They are great for anyone looking for a quick, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 c. all-purpose flour ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. baking powder ⓘ
- 2 tsp. sugar ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. ground red pepper ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp. chilled butter ⓘ
- 3/4 c. shredded reduced-fat extra-sharp Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 3/4 c. finely chopped 33% less-sodium ham ⓘ
- 3/4 c. fat-free buttermilk ⓘ
- 2 large egg whites ⓘ
- cooking spray ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°.
- Lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring cup and level with a knife.
- Combine flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and ground red pepper in a large bowl.
- Cut in butter with a pastry blender or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
- Stir in cheese and ham.
- Combine buttermilk and egg whites, stirring with a whisk.
- Add the buttermilk mixture to the flour mixture, stirring just until moist.
- Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead lightly 4 to 5 times with floured hands.
- Pat dough into an 8-inch circle on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray.
- Cut dough into 8 wedges, cutting into but not through the dough.
- Bake at 400° for 20 minutes or until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using regular sharp Cheddar cheese instead of reduced-fat, or add herbs like chives or thyme. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure your butter is well-chilled for a flaky texture. Remember to handle the dough lightly to avoid tough scones.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these savory scones warm, paired with a light salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. They also make a great snack alongside a bowl of soup or as a tasty accompaniment to Ham And Cheese Sandwiches. For a brunch spread, consider serving them with a selection of jams or butter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Cheese Scones contains roughly 566 calories, with 11g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 605mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can use regular milk, but the scones may not be as tender. To mimic buttermilk, add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 3/4 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
What can I substitute for the ham?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the ham or replace it with cooked mushrooms or sautéed spinach. For a different flavor, consider using cooked bacon or turkey bacon as a substitute.
How do I know when the scones are done baking?
The scones are done when they are lightly browned on top and sound hollow when tapped gently on the bottom. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to prevent over-baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).