Scones, the beloved pastry, take a bold twist in this Cheddar Jalapeño Honey Scones recipe.
The marriage of sharp cheddar, spicy jalapeños, and the sweetness of honey creates a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you embark on this culinary adventure, gather these key ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 2 jalapeños (finely diced)
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
The Step-by-Step Guide
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Incorporate Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients.
Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Cheese and Jalapeños
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and finely diced jalapeños, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
Honey Infusion
In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, milk, and vanilla extract.
Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined.
Do not overmix; a slightly shaggy dough is perfect.
Shape the Scones
Turn the dough onto a floured surface.
Gently pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick.
Using a round cutter, cut out the scones and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake to Perfection
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the scones are golden brown.
Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.
Optional Glaze
For an extra touch, you can drizzle honey over the warm scones or prepare a honey glaze by combining honey with a bit of powdered sugar.
Serving Suggestions
These scones are best enjoyed warm.
Pair them with a dollop of honey butter or your favorite spread for an extra layer of indulgence.
They make for a perfect brunch addition or a delightful afternoon snack.
FAQs
1: Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely.
If you prefer a milder kick, deseed the jalapeños before dicing them.
For more heat, include the seeds.
2: Can I freeze the scone dough?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped scones on a baking sheet.
Once frozen, transfer them to a sealed container.
Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
3: What’s the best way to store leftover scones?
Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
For a longer shelf life, freeze them and reheat as needed.
4: Can I substitute ingredients?
Feel free to experiment!
Consider using different cheeses or adding a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick.
5: What beverages complement these scones?
These scones pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
For a refreshing twist, try them with iced tea or a citrus-infused sparkling water.