Transforming a classic sweet treat into a savory delight can be a culinary revelation, and that’s precisely how our irresistible Easy Ham and Cheese Scones came to life! Inspired by the tender flakiness of our beloved apple pie scones, the idea sparked to create a savory version that would equally captivate taste buds. What better way to achieve this than by infusing them with the comforting richness of cheese and the hearty satisfaction of ham? The result is a batch of golden, buttery scones that are surprisingly simple to make and utterly addictive.
These aren’t just any scones; they’re a perfect fusion of flaky pastry and savory fillings, ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. If you’re looking for an ingenious way to utilize your leftover Easter ham or any holiday ham, this recipe is your answer. Forget bland leftovers; embrace a new family favorite that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Get ready to bake a batch of these delectable, golden-brown beauties that promise a taste experience beyond the ordinary!
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Ham and Cheese Scones
Crafting these tender, flaky ham and cheese scones requires just a handful of straightforward ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your pantry. The magic of a truly great scone lies in the quality and careful handling of these basic components. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this savory sensation:
- All-Purpose Flour: This forms the fundamental structure of your scones. Using good quality all-purpose flour ensures the right balance of texture, providing a tender crumb without becoming too dense. Accurate measurement is key here; lightly spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid a dry dough.
- Granulated Sugar: While these are savory scones, a touch of sugar is crucial. It doesn’t make the scones sweet, but rather balances the salty, savory notes from the ham and cheese, enhancing the overall flavor profile. It also contributes to the beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Baking Powder: This is your primary leavening agent, responsible for giving your scones their characteristic height and airy texture. It’s imperative not to substitute baking powder with baking soda or other agents, as they function differently and will not yield the desired light and fluffy results. Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise.
- Salt: Essential in both sweet and savory recipes, salt is a flavor enhancer that brings out the best in all other ingredients. Even with flavorful ham and cheese, proper seasoning with salt elevates the entire dish, preventing it from tasting flat and making the savory elements pop.
- Unsalted Butter: Cold, unsalted butter is the secret to those coveted tender, flaky layers. As the butter melts during baking, it releases steam, creating pockets of air that result in a light and airy scone. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the recipe. We strongly recommend against margarine or other butter substitutes as they simply won’t deliver the same rich flavor or flaky texture. For best results, keep your butter chilled and cut into cubes before incorporating it into the dry ingredients.
- Buttermilk: Buttermilk is a non-negotiable for these savory scones. Its acidity reacts with the baking powder, contributing to a superior rise and an incredibly tender crumb. It also brings a subtle tang that complements the ham and cheese beautifully. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles.
- Colby Jack Cheese: We adore the mild, creamy, and slightly sharp notes of Colby Jack, which melts wonderfully. However, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese! Sharp cheddar cheese, Swiss, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or even a blend of cheeses would work perfectly, adding your personal touch to these homemade scones.
- Diced Ham: This recipe is a fantastic excuse to use up leftover spiral ham from holidays like Easter or Christmas. The savory, often slightly sweet, notes of cooked ham are a perfect match for the rich cheese. If you don’t have leftovers, pre-cubed or diced ham from your local grocery store will work just as well.
- Fresh Chives: Fresh herbs truly make a difference in flavor, and chives add a delicate oniony touch that brightens the entire scone. If fresh chives aren’t available, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried chives, or substitute with finely chopped fresh parsley or thyme for a different, but equally delicious, aromatic profile. Fresh scallions (green onions) are also a great alternative.
- Melted Butter (for finishing): Yes, butter makes a second appearance! Brushing the freshly baked scones with a little melted butter right out of the oven adds a glorious shine, an extra layer of richness, and helps any sprinkled chives adhere beautifully.
The exact measurements for each ingredient are conveniently provided in the comprehensive recipe card located at the conclusion of this post.
Recommended Equipment for Easy Scone Baking
While you don’t need a professional kitchen setup to bake fantastic scones, having the right tools can make the process significantly easier and more enjoyable, ensuring consistently excellent results. Here are a few pieces of equipment we highly recommend:
Pizza Cutter: You might be surprised to see a pizza cutter on this list, but it’s an absolute game-changer for cutting dough, especially scone dough! We particularly love using a plastic-bladed pizza cutter, like the Dexas model. Unlike a metal knife, a plastic blade won’t scratch your baking sheets or countertops, and it effortlessly glides through dough without dragging or sticking, creating clean, precise wedges. This tool is incredibly efficient and makes shaping your scones a breeze.
Silicone Mat: A silicone baking mat, often referred to as a Silpat, is an invaluable investment for any baker, and especially beneficial for scones. Baking on a silicone mat promotes even heat distribution, ensuring that your scones bake uniformly with perfectly golden tops and bottoms, without any over-browning or sticking. More importantly, when it comes to preparing the dough, kneading and rolling it out on a non-stick silicone mat helps prevent you from over-flouring your workspace. Excess flour can lead to dry, crumbly scones, so a silicone mat keeps your dough perfectly hydrated and tender, making cleanup incredibly simple.
Pastry Cutter: Also known as a pastry blender or dough blender, this tool is essential for incorporating cold butter into flour. While you can use two knives or your fingertips, a pastry cutter does the job quickly and efficiently, ensuring the butter remains cold and forms pea-sized pieces. Keeping the butter cold is critical for developing those flaky layers in your scones. Using your hands for too long can warm the butter, which can lead to a tougher, less flaky scone. This versatile tool is also fantastic for making other baked goods like apple crisps, fruit crumbles, pie crusts, and fluffy biscuits.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Easy Ham and Cheese Scones
Now for the most exciting part: bringing these delightful easy ham and cheese scones to life! This recipe is surprisingly straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels. These savory scones are a fantastic addition to any meal, whether you’re serving them with fluffy scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a hearty breakfast-for-dinner or as a sophisticated treat for special occasions. They are particularly wonderful for springtime brunches, Mother’s Day gatherings, baby showers, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of coffee.
- Prepare Your Workspace and Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for encouraging a good rise and a golden crust. Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper. This ensures your scones won’t stick and will bake evenly.
- Whisk Dry Ingredients Thoroughly: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Use a whisk to mix these dry ingredients thoroughly. Proper distribution of the leavening agent and salt is vital for consistent texture and flavor in every scone.
- Cut in Cold Butter for Flakiness: Add the cubed, cold unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry blender (or two knives, or even your fingertips working quickly), cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs, with some pieces of butter still visible, about the size of small peas. The goal is to keep the butter cold and prevent it from fully melting into the flour, which is key to achieving those beautiful, flaky layers.
- Gently Stir in Wet and Savory Add-ins: Switch to a wooden spoon or spatula. Add the chilled buttermilk, shredded Colby Jack cheese, diced ham, and fresh chives to the flour-butter mixture. Gently stir until a soft, shaggy dough just begins to form. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; overworking the dough develops gluten, leading to tough scones.
- Lightly Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to your prepared silicone mat or a lightly floured parchment paper on a baking sheet. Knead the dough gently, just a few times, until it comes together into a cohesive ball. The less you handle the dough, the more tender your scones will be.
- Shape and Cut into Wedges: Use a rolling pin to roll the dough out into an 8-inch (20 cm) circle, aiming for approximately 1-inch (2.5 cm) thickness. With your pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the circle into 8 equal wedges, similar to slicing a pizza.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Carefully arrange the scone wedges onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the scones are firm to the touch, beautifully golden brown on top, and cooked through.
- Brush with Melted Butter and Garnish: As soon as you remove the baked scones from the oven, brush the tops generously with melted butter. This adds a lovely sheen and rich flavor. Immediately sprinkle with extra fresh chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve Warm and Enjoy: These homemade savory scones are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven.
You can find these instructions, along with precise ingredient measurements, in the detailed recipe card at the end of this post.
Scones vs. Biscuits: Understanding the Subtle Differences
While scones and biscuits share many similarities in their ingredients and preparation, they possess distinct characteristics that set them apart. Both are quick breads that rely on cold fat cut into flour and a liquid for their tender texture. However, the most consistent difference lies in the inclusion of eggs and the typical sugar content.
Generally, traditional scone recipes, especially European ones, often include one or two eggs, which contribute to a richer dough, a slightly more cake-like texture, and a golden hue. Scones also tend to have a higher sugar content than biscuits, even savory ones, providing a subtle sweetness that balances other flavors. This makes them versatile enough to be served with sweet toppings (like jam and clotted cream for sweet scones) or savory fillings (like in our ham and cheese version).
Biscuits, on the other hand, typically do not contain eggs, relying solely on fat and liquid to create their tender, often more crumbly texture. They are also usually much less sweet, if at all, making them a perfect accompaniment to savory dishes, gravies, or fried chicken. Both can be baked on a baking sheet or in a cast-iron skillet, and both aim for that delightful fluffy, tender interior.
In essence, while they are close cousins in the world of baked goods, scones offer a slightly richer, often more delicate crumb, while biscuits lean towards a more robust, sometimes flakier, and less sweet profile. Our Ham and Cheese Scones borrow the best of both worlds, offering a tender texture with a distinctly savory flavor.
Storing and Freezing Ham and Cheese Scones for Later Enjoyment
One of the many reasons to love making scones is their incredible versatility, not just in flavor but also in their storage potential. While these tender, flaky ham and cheese scones are undeniably at their absolute best enjoyed fresh and warm from the oven, they can be easily stored to extend their deliciousness, making them perfect for meal prep or impromptu treats.
How Long Do Baked Scones Last?
Once baked and completely cooled, these scones can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer freshness, place them in an airtight container or a zip-top bag and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, a few minutes in a toaster oven or a quick microwave will bring back some of their original warmth and softness.
Can You Freeze Scone Dough?
Absolutely! This is a fantastic way to prepare ahead for future cravings or busy mornings. To freeze unbaked scone dough:
- After cutting the dough into wedges, place them individually on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch.
- Freeze until the wedges are solid, usually about 1-2 hours.
- Once frozen solid, transfer the dough wedges into a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. This prevents them from sticking together and freezer burn.
- Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to bake, simply take the frozen dough wedges straight from the freezer and place them on a prepared baking sheet. You don’t need to thaw them! Just add an additional 2-4 minutes to the baking time. This method ensures you can enjoy freshly baked scones with minimal effort whenever the mood strikes.
Can You Freeze Baked Scones?
Yes, you can! Freezing baked scones is another excellent option for convenient future enjoyment. To freeze baked scones:
- Allow the freshly baked scones to cool completely on a wire rack. This is crucial to prevent condensation and sogginess when freezing.
- Once thoroughly cooled, place the scones in a freezer-safe zip-top bag, pressing out as much air as possible before sealing. Alternatively, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a larger freezer bag or container for extra protection.
- Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
To reheat frozen baked scones, you can warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. A toaster oven works perfectly for this, or even a quick zap in the microwave for a minute or so (though this might make them a little softer). With these simple storage tips, you can always have a delicious batch of homemade ham and cheese scones at your fingertips!
Why You’ll Love These Savory Ham and Cheese Scones
These savory ham and cheese scones are the epitome of comfort food, offering a delightful twist on a classic baked good. Their tender, flaky texture, combined with the rich flavors of savory ham and melted cheese, makes them an instant hit for any occasion. They’re not just incredibly delicious; they’re also a smart and flavorful way to make the most of leftover Easter or Christmas ham. Imagine waking up to the aroma of freshly baked homemade scones, bursting with your favorite cheese and hearty ham – it’s pure bliss! Whether served warm for breakfast, as part of a lavish brunch spread, or alongside a bowl of soup for a light dinner, these golden treats are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to your family and friends. Don’t miss out on adding this easy and incredibly rewarding recipe to your baking repertoire!
More Delicious Ham Recipes You Will Love:
- World’s Best Brown Sugar Ham
- Honey Baked Ham
- Easy Ham Dipping Sauces
- The Secret to the Best Ham Fried Rice
- Spring Ham and Asparagus Lemon Cream Sauce Pasta
- Cheesy Ham and Potato Bacon Casserole
- Quick and Easy Ham Lemon Orzo with Parmesan and Peas
- Garlic Honey Mustard Glazed Ham
- Savory Ham and Cheese Sliders
- Hawaiian Ham and Pineapple Casserole
- Ham and Cheese Breakfast Stromboli
- Hash Browns Ham Frittata
- Hearty Ham Hock Soup
- Creamy Ham and Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese
- How to Make Ham in a Slow Cooker
- How to Carve a Spiral Ham Perfectly
- All Our BEST PORK RECIPES here!
Easy Ham and Cheese Scones
Pin
Ingredients
- 2 Cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 Tablespoon Sugar
- 1 Tablespoon Baking Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 Cup Unsalted Butter, 8 Tablespoons or 1 stick, cut into cubes, * see note
- 3/4 Cup Buttermilk, chilled
- 1 1/4 Cup Colby Jack Cheese, shredded
- 1/2 Cup Diced Ham
- 1-2 Tablespoon Fresh Chives, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 2 Tablespoons Butter, melted
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
-
Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper; set aside.
-
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt to evenly combine everything. An unmixed bowl of dry ingredients will lead to uneven scones when baked as the ingredients won’t be properly distributed.2 Cups All-Purpose Flour, 1 Tablespoon Sugar, 1 Tablespoon Baking Powder, 1/4 teaspoon Salt
-
Add cold butter to the flour mixture and using a pastry cutter or two knives, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs. You may use your hands if needed but be careful to not completely mix the butter in.1/2 Cup Unsalted Butter
-
Using a wooden spoon, stir in buttermilk, cheese, ham and chives until a soft dough forms.3/4 Cup Buttermilk, 1 1/4 Cup Colby Jack Cheese, 1/2 Cup Diced Ham, 1-2 Tablespoon Fresh Chives
-
Working on a silicone mat or parchment paper on a cookie sheet or pizza stone, knead the dough only a couple of times until it comes together.
-
Using a rolling pill, roll the dough into an 8″ circle, about 1-inch thick, and cut into 8 wedges using a pizza wheel or knife.
-
Place into oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until firm to the touch and lightly browned.
-
Remove from the oven and brush with a little melted butter and sprinkle with chives.2 Tablespoons Butter
-
Serve immediately. See note for storage and freezing instructions.
Recipe Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Craving Sweet? Try Our Apple Pie Scones with Brown Butter Glaze!
While these savory ham and cheese scones are undeniably fantastic, sometimes a sweet craving calls! If you’re a scone enthusiast like me, you’ll adore our Apple Pie Scones with Brown Butter Glaze. They’re wonderfully tender, packed with comforting apple flavor, and topped with a luscious brown butter glaze that’s simply heavenly. It’s truly an amazing sweet treat that proves just how versatile and delightful scones can be.
