Jalapeño Cheddar Scones: A Spicy & Savory Delight

Scones often get a reputation for being dry and bland, but these Jalapeño Cheddar Scones are anything but! These savory scones are bursting with flavor from sharp cheddar cheese, spicy jalapeños, and a hint of garlic, making them the perfect accompaniment to soups, chili, or even a weekend brunch. They’re surprisingly easy to make, and the warmth and slight kick from the jalapeños are incredibly satisfying.

This recipe is designed to be approachable for bakers of all levels, offering detailed instructions and helpful tips to ensure a perfect batch of scones every time. So, ditch the dry, crumbly misconceptions and get ready to experience scones like never before!

## Why You’ll Love These Jalapeño Cheddar Scones

* **Savory and Spicy:** These scones are a welcome departure from the typical sweet variety. The combination of cheddar and jalapeño creates a delicious balance of flavors. The heat can be adjusted to your preference, making them suitable for everyone from mild-spice lovers to those who crave a fiery kick.
* **Easy to Make:** Despite their impressive flavor, these scones are surprisingly simple to prepare. The recipe uses common ingredients and straightforward techniques, making it perfect for beginner bakers.
* **Versatile:** Jalapeño Cheddar Scones are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a side dish with soups or stews, enjoyed as a savory snack, or even used as a base for breakfast sandwiches.
* **Freezer-Friendly:** These scones can be easily frozen for later enjoyment. Simply bake them as directed, allow them to cool completely, and then freeze them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat them, just thaw them and warm them up in the oven.
* **Customizable:** This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences. You can adjust the amount of jalapeños to control the spiciness, experiment with different types of cheese, or add other ingredients like bacon or chives.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start baking, gather all your ingredients and equipment. This will help ensure a smooth and efficient baking process.

* **Dry Ingredients:**
* **All-Purpose Flour:** The base of our scone structure. Use a good quality all-purpose flour for best results. Spoon and level the flour into your measuring cup to avoid packing it in, which can lead to dry scones.
* **Baking Powder:** The leavening agent that helps the scones rise. Make sure your baking powder is fresh for optimal results. If it’s been sitting in your pantry for a while, it’s a good idea to test it by mixing a teaspoon of baking powder with a few tablespoons of hot water. If it fizzes, it’s still good to use.
* **Granulated Sugar:** Adds a touch of sweetness and helps with browning.
* **Salt:** Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
* **Garlic Powder:** Adds a savory depth to the scones.
* **Wet Ingredients:**
* **Cold Unsalted Butter:** The key to flaky scones! Make sure the butter is very cold before you start. You can even freeze it for 15-20 minutes before grating it.
* **Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese:** Adds a sharp, cheesy flavor. Use a good quality sharp cheddar for the best taste. You can also experiment with other types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack.
* **Diced Jalapeños:** Adds a spicy kick. Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. You can use fresh or pickled jalapeños, depending on your preference.
* **Buttermilk:** Adds moisture and tenderness to the scones. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
* **Egg (for egg wash):** Gives the scones a beautiful golden-brown color.
* **Milk (for egg wash):** Thins out the egg wash for an even coating.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Large Mixing Bowl:** For combining the dry ingredients.
* **Pastry Cutter or Food Processor:** For cutting the cold butter into the dry ingredients. A pastry cutter works well for a more rustic texture, while a food processor will create a finer, more uniform crumb.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate measuring.
* **Baking Sheet:** For baking the scones.
* **Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat:** To prevent the scones from sticking to the baking sheet.
* **Wire Rack:** For cooling the scones.
* **Grater:** For grating the butter (optional).
* **Knife or Pizza Cutter:** For cutting the scone dough into wedges.
* **Pastry Brush:** For applying the egg wash.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get baking! Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect Jalapeño Cheddar Scones.

**Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet**

* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your oven rack is positioned in the center of the oven.
* Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the scones from sticking and make cleanup easier.

**Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients**

* In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and garlic powder. Make sure to whisk thoroughly to ensure that the baking powder is evenly distributed.

**Step 3: Cut in the Cold Butter**

* This is the most important step for creating flaky scones. The cold butter creates pockets of steam as it melts in the oven, resulting in a light and airy texture.
* Cut the cold butter into small cubes. You can also grate the butter using a box grater. Grating the butter can make it easier to incorporate into the dry ingredients.
* Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The mixture should have some small pieces of butter remaining.
* Alternatively, you can use a food processor. Pulse the dry ingredients and cold butter together until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to over-process, as this can result in tough scones.

**Step 4: Add Cheese and Jalapeños**

* Add the shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños to the bowl with the flour and butter mixture.
* Gently toss the ingredients together to distribute them evenly.

**Step 5: Add Buttermilk**

* Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
* Pour the cold buttermilk into the well.
* Use a rubber spatula or wooden spoon to gently mix the wet and dry ingredients together. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough scones. The dough will be shaggy and slightly sticky.

**Step 6: Shape the Dough**

* Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
* Gently pat the dough into a 1-inch thick circle. Avoid kneading the dough, as this will develop the gluten and make the scones tough.
* Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into 8 wedges.

**Step 7: Arrange Scones on Baking Sheet**

* Carefully transfer the scones to the prepared baking sheet.
* Arrange the scones so that they are slightly separated from each other. This will allow them to bake evenly.

**Step 8: Prepare Egg Wash**

* In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash.

**Step 9: Brush with Egg Wash**

* Use a pastry brush to brush the tops of the scones with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color.

**Step 10: Bake the Scones**

* Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
* A toothpick inserted into the center of a scone should come out clean.

**Step 11: Cool and Serve**

* Remove the scones from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly.
* Serve the scones warm or at room temperature.

## Tips for Perfect Jalapeño Cheddar Scones

* **Use Cold Ingredients:** The cold butter and buttermilk are essential for creating flaky scones. Make sure your ingredients are well-chilled before you start baking.
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing the dough will develop the gluten and make the scones tough. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined.
* **Handle the Dough Gently:** Avoid kneading the dough, as this will also develop the gluten. Gently pat the dough into a circle and cut it into wedges.
* **Bake at the Right Temperature:** Baking the scones at 400°F (200°C) will ensure that they rise properly and become golden brown.
* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaking the scones will make them dry and crumbly. Bake them until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences. You can adjust the amount of jalapeños to control the spiciness, experiment with different types of cheese, or add other ingredients like bacon or chives.
* **Freeze for Later:** These scones can be easily frozen for later enjoyment. Simply bake them as directed, allow them to cool completely, and then freeze them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat them, just thaw them and warm them up in the oven.

## Variations and Additions

* **Bacon Cheddar Jalapeño Scones:** Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the dough for a smoky and savory flavor.
* **Chive and Cheddar Scones:** Replace the jalapeños with chopped fresh chives for a milder, herbaceous flavor.
* **Pepper Jack Scones:** Use shredded Pepper Jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra spicy kick.
* **Monterey Jack and Green Chile Scones:** Replace the jalapeños with diced green chiles and the cheddar with Monterey Jack cheese for a southwestern twist.
* **Sun-Dried Tomato and Parmesan Scones:** For an Italian-inspired scone, omit the jalapeños and cheddar and add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and grated Parmesan cheese.
* **Make them Mini:** Use a small cookie cutter to create mini scones, perfect for appetizers or snacks. Adjust baking time accordingly.

## Serving Suggestions

* Serve warm with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite savory spread.
* Pair with soups, stews, or chili.
* Use as a base for breakfast sandwiches with eggs, bacon, and cheese.
* Enjoy as a savory snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
* Serve as a side dish with grilled meats or vegetables.

## Storage Instructions

* **Room Temperature:** Store baked scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh.
* **Refrigerator:** Store baked scones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving.
* **Freezer:** Freeze baked scones in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before reheating. To reheat frozen scones, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

## Jalapeño Cheddar Scones Recipe Card

**Yields:** 8 scones
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 20 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon salt
* ½ teaspoon garlic powder
* ½ cup (1 stick, 113g) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes or grated
* 1 cup (113g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
* ¼ cup diced jalapeños, seeds and membranes removed for less heat
* ¾ cup cold buttermilk
* 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and garlic powder.
3. Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños to the bowl and toss to combine.
5. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the cold buttermilk.
6. Gently mix the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. The dough will be shaggy and slightly sticky.
7. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick circle.
8. Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into 8 wedges.
9. Carefully transfer the scones to the prepared baking sheet.
10. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash.
11. Brush the tops of the scones with the egg wash.
12. Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
13. Remove the scones from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly.
14. Serve warm or at room temperature.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: Approximately 250-300 per scone (depending on ingredients and portion size)
* Fat: 15-20g
* Carbohydrates: 25-30g
* Protein: 8-10g

**Note:** Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

## Enjoy Your Homemade Jalapeño Cheddar Scones!

These Jalapeño Cheddar Scones are a delicious and satisfying treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, enjoying them as a snack, or using them as a base for breakfast sandwiches, these scones are sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and get ready to enjoy a batch of warm, savory, and spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Scones!

We hope you enjoyed this recipe! Please let us know in the comments below if you tried making them and what you thought. Share your variations and tips as well! Happy baking!