Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will transform your perception of traditional British scones forever! These aren't your grandmother's ordinary pastries - imagine a perfect harmony of nutty hazelnuts and tangy Stilton cheese, baked to golden perfection, creating a gourmet experience that will tantalize your taste buds and impress even the most discerning food lovers. Whether you're a brunch enthusiast or a passionate home baker, these scones promise to elevate your morning routine from mundane to extraordinary.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: British
Serves: 12 scones
Ingredients
- 250g plain flour
- 100g unsalted butter
- 50g hazelnuts, chopped
- 100g Stilton cheese, crumbled
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 150ml milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the plain flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
- Cut the cold unsalted butter into small cubes and add to the flour mixture. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Roughly chop the hazelnuts and crumble the Stilton cheese. Gently fold these into the flour and butter mixture.
- Make a well in the center of the mixture and gradually add the milk, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a round shape about
- 5 cm thick.
- Using a sharp knife or pastry cutter, cut the dough into 12 equal wedges or use a round cutter to shape individual scones.
- Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small gap between each one. Brush the tops with a little extra milk for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are risen and golden brown on top.
- Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with butter or enjoy as they are.
Tips
- Keep your butter ice-cold: Cold butter is the key to achieving those signature flaky layers in your scones.
- Don't overwork the dough: Mix just until ingredients are combined to ensure tender, light scones.
- Use fresh, high-quality Stilton for the most robust flavor profile.
- Toast the hazelnuts lightly before chopping to enhance their nutty aroma.
- For an extra golden top, brush scones with egg wash instead of milk for a more lustrous finish.
- Serve immediately while warm to enjoy the maximum flavor and texture contrast.
- Store any leftover scones in an airtight container and reheat briefly in the oven to restore their crisp exterior.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 310kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 45mg
