When I first baked cheese scones, it was an accidental discovery. I had no intention of baking that day. I was actually on a mission to make a simple cup of tea, but somehow the idea of freshly baked scones, with their rich buttery aroma, overtook me. I wasn’t sure what I was doing, but there I was-mixing flour, butter, and cheese with complete abandon. The result was magical. Soft, fluffy, with that perfect cheese bite in every bite.
One recipe that stood out in my scone-baking journey was Jamie Oliver’s Cheese Scones recipe. It had the simplicity and charm of classic British cooking, with just enough twist to make it special. I’ve since made these many times, and every time, they’ve turned out perfect.
Jamie Oliver’s Cheese Scones Recipe
I came across Jamie Oliver’s Cheese Scones recipe on one of his shows. He made them so effortlessly, it felt like the kind of thing you could whip up any time-whether for a spontaneous tea party or a cozy afternoon snack. The way he talked about scones, almost like they were an extension of his personality, made me want to try the recipe immediately. It wasn’t just about baking-it was about bringing joy into the kitchen.
Here’s the recipe that I now swear by:
- Makes: 8-10 scones
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Ingredients Needed
The ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s Cheese Scones are simple, yet they come together to create something special. You don’t need a lot of fancy tools either. Here’s everything you’ll need to make the magic happen:
- Self-raising flour (350g) – This is your base, and using self-raising flour gives scones that rise without the need for extra baking powder.
- Cold butter (85g) – Cold butter is key to achieving the flaky texture we all want in scones.
- Mature cheddar cheese (200g) – Choose a strong, mature cheddar to ensure the cheese flavor stands out in each bite.
- Whole milk (200ml) – For a bit of creaminess and moisture.
- Pinch of salt – A small amount goes a long way in balancing the flavors.
- Black pepper – Optional, but it adds an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Cheese Scones
The first time I followed Jamie’s steps, I was surprised at how quick and easy it all came together. It felt more like an art than baking, especially when the dough was ready to be shaped and cut. Here’s how you can do it too:
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (fan 200°C) or 425°F.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour and a pinch of salt.
- Add the butter: Rub the cold butter into the flour with your fingertips until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
- Cheese it up: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
- Add milk: Pour in the milk gradually, mixing with a fork until a dough forms. You may not need all the milk, so add a little at a time.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it’s smooth. Avoid overworking it.
- Shape and cut: Pat the dough down to about 2cm thickness and use a cutter to cut out rounds.
- Bake: Place the scones on a baking tray and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown on top.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Understanding the science behind these ingredients helped me see why the recipe works so well. Here’s what’s happening with each key component:
- Self-raising flour: The secret to the perfect rise. The flour contains baking powder already mixed in, which gives your scones a fluffy, airy texture without extra work.
- Butter: Cold butter creates pockets of air within the dough. When baked, it leaves behind a flakiness that makes each bite feel luxurious.
- Cheese: The mature cheddar melts during baking, infusing the scones with flavor and moisture. It also adds to the crust’s delicious golden color.
- Milk: Milk contributes to the scone’s tender crumb while also helping with browning during baking.
Expert Tips
After several batches, I’ve learned a few tips that can help you get the best cheese scones:
- Don’t overmix the dough: Overworking the dough will make the scones tough. You want to gently bring everything together to maintain the light texture.
- Use cold butter: This is crucial! Cold butter creates that flaky, airy texture. If your butter starts to soften, pop it in the fridge for a bit before using.
- Keep your oven hot: Make sure your oven is preheated. High heat helps the scones rise quickly and evenly, giving them that perfect lift.
- Rest the dough: If you have the time, let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting. This can enhance the texture even more.
Recipe Variations
Jamie’s recipe is solid, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with it! Here are some variations I’ve tried and loved:
- Herb-infused scones: Add finely chopped rosemary or thyme to the dough for a fresh herbal note.
- Spicy cheddar scones: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a bit of heat.
- Bacon and cheese: If you’re craving something more savory, toss in crumbled cooked bacon for extra flavor.
Final Words
Making Jamie Oliver’s Cheese Scones is an experience. It’s not just about following a recipe-it’s about creating something simple yet elegant. These scones are perfect for an afternoon tea, but they’re versatile enough to enjoy anytime. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just as a little treat for yourself, they always hit the spot.
FAQs
What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Cheese Scones So Special?
Jamie Oliver’s cheese scones are known for being soft, cheesy, and perfectly crumbly with a golden crust. The recipe uses simple ingredients but adds a touch of flavor with mustard and strong cheddar.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Cheese Scones Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can. You can make them a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. To refresh them, just pop them in the oven for a few minutes.
What Can I Substitute For The Cheese In Jamie Oliver’s Recipe?
You can try different cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheddar and parmesan. Just make sure the cheese has a good flavor!