Cheddar and herb scones are a delightful twist on the classic scone, bringing a savory touch to your baking repertoire. These scones are perfect for those who love the combination of sharp cheddar cheese and fresh herbs, making them a great addition to any brunch or afternoon tea. I first discovered this recipe when I was looking for a way to use up some leftover herbs from my garden, and it quickly became a family favorite. They're easy to whip up and add a touch of homemade charm to any meal.

These cheddar and herb scones pair wonderfully with a hearty soup or a fresh salad, making them a versatile addition to lunch or dinner. For a cozy brunch, serve them with scrambled eggs and a side of crispy bacon. You can also enjoy them on their own with a slather of butter or a dollop of sour cream for a simple yet satisfying snack.

Servings: 8

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
3/4 cup buttermilk

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.

Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, and chives until evenly distributed.

Pour in the buttermilk and gently mix until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick circle.

Use a sharp knife to cut the circle into 8 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and cooked through.

Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.

For a different flavor profile, try adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients. You can also substitute the cheddar with another type of cheese, such as Gruyère or feta, for a unique twist. If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 3/4 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.

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