Goat’s Cheese, Dill and Onion Savoury Scones

Introduction

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, flaky scone that’s bursting with the tangy flavors of goat’s cheese, the freshness of dill, and the sweetness of caramelized onions. These Goat’s Cheese, Dill and Onion Savoury Scones are not only a delight to eat, but they’re also incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few everyday ingredients and some simple kitchen magic. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or an impressive addition to your next dinner party, these scones are the perfect choice. With their unique blend of flavors and textures, they’re sure to become a favorite among family and friends.

Why This Works

• The combination of goat’s cheese, dill, and onion creates a beautifully balanced flavor profile that’s both savory and slightly sweet.
• The ingredients are easily accessible and likely already stocked in your pantry, making this recipe a great way to use up everyday items.
• Despite their impressive flavor and texture, these scones are incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple steps and minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 3/4 cup goat’s cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup caramelized onions (see instructions for caramelizing onions)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or buttermilk
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and pepper. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Step 3: Stir in the crumbled goat’s cheese, caramelized onions, and chopped fresh dill.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream or buttermilk and a pinch of salt. Pour the cream mixture over the flour mixture and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Step 5: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a circle that’s about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick.
6. Step 6: Use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out scones. Gather the scraps, re-form the dough, and cut out additional scones.
7. Step 7: Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each scone. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Step 8: Bake the scones for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to keep your butter cold, as this will help the scones to rise and give them a flaky texture.
• If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
• Don’t overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough scones. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients come together in a shaggy mass.

Heat Control

To ensure that your scones are perfectly baked, keep an eye on them after 12-13 minutes of baking. They should be golden brown and firm to the touch. If you prefer a more golden crust, you can broil the scones for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Crunch Factor

These scones should have a delicate crunch on the outside and a tender, flaky interior. To achieve this texture, make sure to handle the dough gently and avoid overmixing. You can also try brushing the tops with a little extra butter or cream before baking for an extra-golden crust.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a pastry blender to work the butter into the flour, as this will help to create a flaky texture.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the scones to rise and give them a more even texture.
• Experiment with different flavors by adding in dried herbs, grated cheese, or diced ham to the dough.

Storage Tips

• These scones are best served fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• To freeze, place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen scones to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. Bake frozen scones in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
• To reheat, wrap the scones in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These scones are perfect for gifting to friends and family, especially when packaged in a beautiful basket or tin. Try wrapping the scones individually in parchment paper or wax paper and placing them in a decorative tin or basket. You can also include a few extra goodies, such as a pat of butter, a jar of jam, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, to make the gift even more special.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding in some diced ham or bacon for a savory twist.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or feta, for a unique flavor profile.
• Add in some dried herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for a fragrant and savory flavor.

Troubleshooting

• If your scones are too dense or heavy, try adding a little more cream or buttermilk to the dough.
• If your scones are too crumbly or dry, try adding a little more butter or egg to the dough.
• If your scones are not rising properly, try checking the expiration date of your baking powder or baking soda, as these ingredients can lose their potency over time.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the dough instead of the baked scones? Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 2 months. Simply wrap the dough in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, thaw the dough overnight in the refrigerator and proceed with the recipe.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? No, this recipe contains all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can try substituting the flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make more scones. Simply multiply all the ingredients by two and proceed with the recipe. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust the baking time slightly if you’re making a larger batch of scones.

Conclusion

These Goat’s Cheese, Dill and Onion Savoury Scones are a delicious and impressive addition to any meal or gathering. With their unique blend of flavors and textures, they’re sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal effort. So why not give it a try and see what you think? We hope you enjoy these scones as much as we do, and we can’t wait to hear about your experiences with this recipe.