Description
These Spiced Apple & Cheddar Scones are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, ideal for a cozy morning, weekend brunch, or an afternoon treat. Tender, flaky, and lightly spiced, these scones feature crisp apple pieces and sharp cheddar cheese that create a comforting, flavorful bite every time. Inspired by classic scones with a modern twist, they are simple to make yet impressive enough to share with family and friends.
Ingredients
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
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1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
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1 cup peeled and diced apples (about 1 medium apple)
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1/2 cup buttermilk, plus more for brushing
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1 large egg
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
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Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with small chunks of butter remaining.
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Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and diced apples until evenly distributed.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
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Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently 2–3 times. Pat into a 1-inch thick circle and cut into 8 wedges, or shape into a rectangle and cut into squares.
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Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with buttermilk and sprinkle with a little sugar if desired.
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Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
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Cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
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Use cold butter for the flakiest scones.
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Do not overmix the dough to avoid dense scones.
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Sharp cheddar is recommended, but mild cheddar or gouda can be used.
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Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best.
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These scones can be made ahead, refrigerated, or frozen for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes