Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup melted butter (plus extra for brushing)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. This ensures even distribution of the baking powder for a consistent rise.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, milk, and sour cream until smooth.
4. Make the Dough:
   Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the scones tough. Once the dough is nearly mixed, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley until evenly distributed.
5. Shape the Scones:
   Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently press it together into a circle about 1 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a knife to cut out circles or wedges, placing each piece on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake the Scones:
   Brush the tops of the scones with a little melted butter for a golden, crispy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top.
7. Cool and Serve:
   Remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving warm.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Serving Size: 1 scone (based on 8 scones)

• Calories: 200
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 280mg
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 6g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
   Yes! These scones are versatile and can be made with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack.
2. What if I don’t have sour cream?
   You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt for a similar texture and flavor.
3. Can I make these scones gluten-free?
   Absolutely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.
4. How do I know when the scones are done?
   The scones are ready when the tops are golden brown and they feel slightly firm to the touch.
5. Can I add other herbs?
   Fresh chives, thyme, or rosemary can be added to enhance the flavor. Just keep the total amount of herbs to around 1–2 tablespoons.

Tips for Perfect Cheddar and Parsley Savory Scones:

• Use Cold Ingredients: Keeping the butter and sour cream cold helps the scones stay flaky and tender.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can make scones dense. Stir until just combined to keep the texture light.
• Add Extra Flavor: For an extra flavor boost, add a pinch of garlic powder or black pepper to the dough.

Storage Tips:

• Room Temperature: Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Scones can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freezer: These scones freeze well! Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat directly in the oven.

Conclusion:

These Cheddar and Parsley Savory Scones are a delightful addition to any meal. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to impress family and friends. Perfect for any occasion, from brunch to teatime, these scones offer a buttery, flaky texture with hints of cheese and herbs. Experiment with different cheeses and herbs to make them uniquely yours, and enjoy the delicious aroma that fills your kitchen while they bake.