Name: Cheese and Chive Savoury Scones Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups self-raising flour; 1 tablespoon sugar; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon pepper; 65g (2.2 oz) butter, cubed; 1 ½ cups milk; 3 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped; ⅓ cup parmesan cheese, finely grated; ⅓ cup cheddar cheese, finely grated; Extra cheddar cheese for topping; Extra milk for brushing on top

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 30 reviews

There is nothing quite as comforting and flavorful as a warm, freshly baked scone that bursts with cheesy goodness and fragrant chives. This Cheese and Chive Savoury Scones Recipe is an absolute delight for anyone who craves a savory treat with a tender crumb and a crisp, golden crust. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, as a snack, or alongside your favorite soup, these scones bring together the perfect balance of sharp cheddar, nutty parmesan, and bright, fresh chives to make every bite irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows twelve round golden-brown baked biscuits with bits of green herbs mixed throughout. Each biscuit has a slightly rough texture with small browned spots on top, and they are placed closely together in a clear glass baking dish lined with white parchment paper. The biscuits are arranged in three rows, filling the dish evenly. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is key to nailing the texture and flavor of these scones. Every item plays a crucial role from the flakey butter to the sharp cheeses, creating a harmonious blend that’s classic yet special.

Self-raising flour: Provides the perfect lift and softness you expect in a scone without extra fuss.
Sugar: Just a touch to balance the savory elements and enhance browning.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and brings out the cheese’s boldness.
Pepper: Adds a gentle kick to brighten the savory profile.
Butter (cubed): Cold and cubed for that beautiful, flaky texture when mixed into the flour.
Milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender with a mild richness.
Fresh chives: Finely chopped for a fresh oniony flavor and lovely green flecks throughout.
Parmesan cheese (finely grated): Adds a nutty complexity and a satisfying sharp bite.
Cheddar cheese (finely grated): Brings creamy, melty depth that’s the soul of these scones.
Extra cheese and milk (for the top): A finishing touch for a golden, cheesy crust that looks as good as it tastes.

How to Make Cheese and Chive Savoury Scones Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by combining the self-raising flour, sugar, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Stir these dry ingredients well so the seasoning is evenly distributed, which ensures every scone delivers that perfect burst of flavor.

Step 2: Rub in the Butter

Next, add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. This step is crucial for achieving the light, flaky texture that makes these scones irresistible.

Step 3: Fold in Cheese and Chives

Gently fold in your freshly grated parmesan, cheddar cheeses, and chopped chives. Mixing gently helps maintain those lovely pockets of cheese that melt during baking, while the chives give an herbaceous pop of flavor.

Step 4: Add Milk and Form Dough

Pour in the milk gradually, using a knife or spatula to bring the dough together. Be careful not to overwork it; the dough should just come together and feel soft but not sticky. This keeps the scones tender and fluffy.

Step 5: Shape and Cut

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a round approximately 2 inches thick. Using a round cutter or knife, cut out your scones and place them on a lined baking tray, leaving a little space between each one for rising.

Step 6: Brush and Bake

Brush the tops of your scones with a little milk, then sprinkle with extra grated cheese. This step gives the scones their signature golden top with a salty, cheesy crunch. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 12-15 minutes until puffed up and golden brown.

How to Serve Cheese and Chive Savoury Scones Recipe

This image shows a white bowl filled with a rough, chunky dough mixture that is pale yellow in color with small green herb specks spread throughout. The dough has a dry, crumbly texture with small lumps, sitting unevenly in the bowl. A wooden-handled butter knife with a metal blade is partially pressed into the dough on the right side. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface with a folded light beige cloth visible to the lower right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For the perfect finishing touch, try spreading a bit of good-quality butter or clotted cream on warm scones. Freshly cracked black pepper or an extra sprinkle of chopped chives can add a subtle kick and color contrast that makes each bite visually enticing.

Side Dishes

These scones pair beautifully with soups such as tomato basil or a creamy potato leek, as well as fresh salads. They’re also fantastic alongside a savory brunch spread with smoked salmon, scrambled eggs, or a dollop of cream cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not surprise your guests by turning these scones into mini sandwiches? Slice them in half and fill with ham, cheese, or even a dollop of herby cream cheese spread. They also make wonderful bases for savory toppings like sautéed mushrooms or an egg salad twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover scones are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and tender for up to two days, making them an easy snack anytime you want a quick cheesy treat.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked scones wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time and enjoy fresh scones anytime you like.

Reheating

To bring leftover scones back to life, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This method keeps the texture flaky and the outside crisp without drying them out, which microwaving can sometimes cause.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses in the Cheese and Chive Savoury Scones Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like gruyere, feta, or gouda. Just be mindful of their salt levels and melting characteristics to keep the texture just right.

What can I substitute for self-raising flour?

If you don’t have self-raising flour, use plain flour and add 1½ teaspoons of baking powder per cup of flour. This will give you that lovely rise the scones need.

Can these scones be made dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use your favorite non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. The scones may be slightly different in texture but will still be delicious.

Should the butter be melted or cold?

The butter should be cold and cubed. Cold butter is essential for creating those flaky layers characteristic of great scones.

How long do these scones take to bake?

They bake fairly quickly, usually around 12-15 minutes in a hot oven. Keep an eye out for a golden top and firm touch to know they’re done perfectly.

Final Thoughts

This Cheese and Chive Savoury Scones Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines simple ingredients with a whole lot of love. Once you try these golden, cheesy beauties, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. Give it a go—you’ll have cozy, homemade deliciousness in no time that everyone will rave about.