Ham and Cheese Scones

July 22, 2025 by Yasmin Bernat

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When it comes to comfort food, few things can rival the warm, flaky goodness of a freshly baked scone. While sweet scones often steal the spotlight, there’s something uniquely delightful about a savory scone packed with rich flavors like ham and cheddar cheese. These Ham and Cheese Scones are easy to make, incredibly versatile, and perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even paired with a bowl of soup for a cozy dinner.

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s simple yet impressive, this one checks all the boxes. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a batch of golden, cheesy scones ready to enjoy in no time. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how you can whip up these irresistible treats in your own kitchen.

Why Ham and Cheese Scones Are a Must-Try

Savory scones don’t get nearly enough attention, but they deserve a place in your recipe repertoire. The combination of salty ham, sharp cheddar cheese, and fragrant chives creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re hosting brunch, need an easy appetizer, or want a quick snack to go with your afternoon tea, these scones deliver every single time.

What’s more, they’re incredibly versatile. You can swap out the ham for cooked bacon or turkey, try different cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan, or even add extra herbs for a twist. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe one you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Ham and Cheese Scones:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ cup unsalted butter, cut into cubes
¾ cup buttermilk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
⅓ cup diced ham
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

These ingredients are pantry staples for most home bakers, so you might already have everything you need. If buttermilk isn’t on hand, you can easily substitute it with a mix of milk and lemon juice or vinegar—just let it sit for a few minutes to curdle before using.

Equipment Checklist

You don’t need any fancy tools to make these scones. Here’s what you’ll need:

A large mixing bowl
A rolling pin (or your hands if you prefer)
A baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat

That’s it! With just these basics, you’re ready to get started.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure your scones don’t stick during baking. Set it aside while you prepare the dough.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. These dry ingredients form the base of your scone dough and provide the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Cut in the Butter
Add the cold butter cubes to the dry mixture. Using your fingers (or a pastry cutter), work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving that flaky texture we all love in scones.
Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Stir in the buttermilk until the mixture starts to come together. Then fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced ham, and chopped chives. The dough will be soft but manageable—don’t overmix!
Shape the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently 3-4 times until it comes together into a cohesive ball. Using a rolling pin (or your hands), roll the dough into an 8-inch circle about 1-inch thick. Cut it into 8 wedges like you would a pizza.
Bake to Perfection
Place the scones onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the scones are firm to the touch and lightly golden brown on top.
Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once baked, let the scones cool slightly before serving them warm. They’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the cheese is still gooey and the flavors are at their peak.

Tips for Success

Keep Your Butter Cold: Cold butter is key to achieving that flaky texture. If your kitchen is warm, pop the butter cubes in the freezer for a few minutes before adding them to the flour mixture.
Don’t Overwork the Dough: Overmixing or overkneading can lead to tough scones. Handle the dough as little as possible to keep it light and tender.
Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick, swap out cheddar for pepper jack cheese, or sprinkle some Parmesan on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions

These Ham and Cheese Scones are delicious on their own but can be paired with other dishes for an even more satisfying meal. Serve them alongside scrambled eggs for breakfast, enjoy them with a bowl of tomato soup for lunch, or pair them with a crisp green salad for dinner. They also make great party appetizers—just slice them into smaller portions for easy sharing.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so good!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in a warm oven until heated through.

Final Thoughts

Ham and Cheese Scones are proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is approachable and guaranteed to impress. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds—and anyone lucky enough to share these scones with you—will thank you!

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