There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked scones wafting through the kitchen, and when those scones are bursting with ham and cheese, it transforms an ordinary day into something special. I found myself craving comfort food that didn’t involve the hassle of takeout, and that’s when these Easy Ham and Cheese Scones came to life.
Picture this: a warm, flaky scone, golden brown on the outside and delightfully cheesy on the inside, studded with savory bits of ham and a sprinkle of scallions for that extra kick. Whether you’re hosting friends for brunch, treating yourself to a cozy snack, or looking to elevate an everyday meal, these scones hit the spot perfectly. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll whip them up in no time—and trust me, they’ll be gone before you know it. Let’s dive in!
Why love Easy Ham and Cheese Scones?
Unmatched Flavor: Every bite delivers a savory explosion with the perfect blend of ham and rich cheese.
Flaky Texture: The combination of cream and butter guarantees a scone that’s wonderfully tender and flaky.
Quick & Easy: With a simple mix of ingredients, these scones are ready in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven, or as a delicious addition to brunch or lunch.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in, these scones are sure to impress everyone at the table.
Easy Ham and Cheese Scones Ingredients
For the Scone Mixture
• All-purpose flour – 9 ounces, or about 2 cups; this forms the base of your scones.
• Baking powder – 1 tablespoon; a key ingredient that helps the scones rise perfectly.
• Sugar – 2 teaspoons; just a hint to balance the savory flavors of the ham and cheese.
• Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon; enhances the flavors and brings everything together.
For the Filling
• Unsalted butter – 2 ounces, cold and cubed; this creates that delightful flakiness in your scones.
• Diced ham – 7 ounces; use fully cooked for a convenient, hearty filling.
• Chopped scallion – 1 ounce; adds a fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.
• Coarsely shredded cheese – 4 ounces (such as cheddar or Gruyère); divided, for melty goodness inside and out.
For the Wet Ingredients
• Milk – 2 ounces (1/4 cup); contributes to the richness and helps bind the dough.
• Heavy cream – 6 ounces (3/4 cup); enhances the scone’s texture, making them tender and delicious.
With these Easy Ham and Cheese Scones ingredients at hand, you’re all set to create a warm and inviting treat that will elevate any meal!
How to Make Easy Ham and Cheese Scones
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Preheat Oven: Start by adjusting your oven rack to the lower-middle position and preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your scones bake evenly and achieve that golden-brown color.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift the all-purpose flour. Then, whisk in the baking powder, sugar, and kosher salt, combining these dry ingredients to create a light and fluffy base for your scones.
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Incorporate Butter: Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Toss it to break up the pieces, then smash each piece flat with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse meal. This step is key for that flaky texture you’re craving!
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Mix in Fillings: Gently fold in the diced ham, chopped scallions, and 1 ounce of shredded cheese, tossing until everything is well combined. The savory ham and fresh scallions create a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
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Form Dough: Pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring until a stiff dough forms. You’ll want it to be slightly wet but not sticky, which makes for a tender scone when baked.
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Shape Scones: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a 7-inch round, making sure it’s no less than 1 inch thick. This thickness is vital for the scones to rise beautifully.
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Cut and Arrange: Using a chef’s knife, cut the dough into 6 wedges. Arrange them on a parchment-lined half sheet pan, topping each with the remaining cheese for a melty, cheesy finish.
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Bake: Slide your pan into the oven and bake the scones until they’re puffed and golden brown, about 25 minutes. Enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen during this time!
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, let them cool for at least 5 minutes before serving. This waiting period allows the flavors to settle and makes them easier to handle.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of butter for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Easy Ham and Cheese Scones?
These delightful scones can easily elevate your meal, making every moment feel special.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the savory scones beautifully. Enjoy the sweetness bursting in your mouth with every bite.
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Crispy Green Salad: Toss fresh greens with a zesty vinaigrette for a light and crunchy side that complements the rich flavors of the scones. The crispness will provide a delightful textural contrast.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: This classic pairing warms the heart and soul. The richness of the soup beautifully contrasts the flaky scones, creating a cozy meal perfect for any day.
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Roasted Vegetables: Root vegetables drizzled with olive oil and roasted until tender and caramelized offer earthy notes that enhance the experience. The natural sweetness of the veggies harmonizes with the salty ham in the scones.
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Savory Yogurt Dip: A tangy Greek yogurt dip, seasoned with herbs, adds a creamy element that brightens up each bite. This unexpected pairing keeps things light and fun.
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Apple Cider: A glass of fresh apple cider brings a hint of sweetness that perfectly offsets the scones’ savory nature. Whether hot or cold, it’s a delightful drink choice.
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Herbed Butter: Whip up some herbed butter for spreading on warm scones. This simple addition elevates the flavor, turning every bite into a savory explosion of goodness.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Ham and Cheese Scones
Fridge: Store your scones in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while retaining their delightful texture.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat the scones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will restore their flaky goodness.
Room Temperature: If you plan to consume them within a few hours, you can keep them at room temperature, covered with a cloth, to maintain warmth.
Easy Ham and Cheese Scones Variations
Feel free to take these scones on a flavorful journey!
- Herb Infusion: Add a tablespoon of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist that brightens each bite.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a delightful heat that awakens the senses.
- Savory Cheddar: Swap in aged cheddar or smoked Gouda for a richer, more complex flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace ham with roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Cheese Lovers: Use multiple types of cheese, such as feta or blue cheese, or mix in cream cheese for added creaminess.
- Sweet Addition: For a sweet twist, try adding a handful of dried cranberries or chopped apples for a unique flavor balance.
- Pesto Delight: Swirl in a spoonful of pesto into the dough for a herby richness that takes your scones to new heights.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs while enjoying the same delicious textures.
Embrace your creativity and let these variations inspire your own baking adventure!
Expert Tips for Easy Ham and Cheese Scones
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Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream are cold. This helps maintain a flaky texture by creating steam pockets while baking.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining dry ingredients with wet ones, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense scones, which is a common mistake.
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Check Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too sticky, add a bit more flour until it’s manageable. The right dough consistency is crucial for perfect easy ham and cheese scones.
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Revive Leftovers: If you have any scones left, refresh them in a warm oven for a minute before serving. This restores their flakiness and flavor beautifully.
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Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to swap or add ingredients like spinach or different cheeses for a unique twist on these easy ham and cheese scones!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Ham and Cheese Scones are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply follow the steps through cutting the wedges, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain their delightful texture, avoid baking them before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes of baking time if needed. With this make-ahead option, you’ll enjoy warm, cheesy scones on a busy morning with minimal effort!
Easy Ham and Cheese Scones Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ham for my scones?
Absolutely! Use fully cooked ham for your Easy Ham and Cheese Scones. Look for ham that is moist and flavorful. If possible, choose a ham that’s slightly smoky, as it’ll add more depth to your scones.
Can I store leftover scones, and how long do they last?
Sure! Store your Easy Ham and Cheese Scones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their freshness. Just make sure they’re completely cool before sealing them, as excess moisture can make them soggy.
What’s the best way to freeze ham and cheese scones?
The more the merrier! To freeze, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat them directly from the freezer in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
How can I fix dry scones?
Very good question! If you find your scones are dry, it’s often because of overmixing or baking too long. Ensure you mix the dough only until combined and keep a close eye on the baking time, as oven temperatures can vary. For extra moisture next time, try adding a bit more cream or milk, but don’t overdo it!
Are these scones suitable for those with allergies?
Definitely a consideration! If you or someone you’re serving has a gluten or dairy allergy, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use dairy-free butter and plant-based milk. Just be sure to check labels carefully to avoid allergens in other ingredients.
How do I know when my scones are ready?
You’ll know your Easy Ham and Cheese Scones are ready when they’re beautifully puffed and golden brown, which typically takes about 25 minutes. For added assurance, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Enjoy the anticipation as you watch them rise!
Deliciously Easy Ham and Cheese Scones for Happy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and adjust the oven rack to the lower-middle position.
- In a medium bowl, sift the all-purpose flour, then whisk in the baking powder, sugar, and kosher salt.
- Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture, and toss to break up the pieces until it resembles coarse meal.
- Gently fold in the diced ham, chopped scallions, and 1 ounce of shredded cheese.
- Pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring until a stiff dough forms.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a 7-inch round, at least 1 inch thick.
- Using a chef's knife, cut the dough into 6 wedges and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, topping with remaining cheese.
- Bake until puffed and golden brown, about 25 minutes.
- Let them cool for at least 5 minutes before serving.