If you’re craving a savory snack that balances a crispy exterior with a buttery, flaky interior, look no further! Savory Ham & Gruyère Scones are the ultimate treat to satisfy your taste buds. Packed with melted cheese, salty ham, and fresh herbs, these scones are ideal for brunch, breakfast, or even as a side dish with soup. The combination of Gruyère cheese, ham, and chives creates a delicious, comforting flavor profile, making these scones the perfect baked good for any occasion.
What Are Savory Ham & Gruyère Scones?
Scones are traditionally a British baked good, often sweet, but this savory variation takes the classic recipe and adds a gourmet twist. With a rich Gruyère cheese filling and diced ham, these scones bring together the best of buttery richness and hearty savory flavors. The texture is light, flaky, and crisp on the outside, yet soft and moist on the inside. Whether you’re making them for a weekend brunch or preparing them to pair with your favorite soup, savory ham & Gruyère scones are sure to become a household favorite.
The Origin of Savory Ham & Gruyère Scones
The humble scone is thought to have originated in Scotland in the early 1500s. Originally made with oats, the recipe evolved to include wheat flour over time, and scones became an integral part of British and Irish teatime traditions. While sweet scones filled with fruits like raisins or currants are more common, savory versions like this one have been gaining popularity for their versatility. Savory scones can be paired with cheese, herbs, and cooked meats, making them a perfect snack or accompaniment to a wide variety of dishes.
Ingredients (Makes 8 Large Scones)
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½–1 tsp dry mustard powder (optional but amazing)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
Cold Ingredients
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, very cold, cut into cubes
- 1 cup cold heavy cream (plus extra for brushing)
Mix-ins
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- ½–¾ cup diced ham
- 2 tbsp chives or green onions, chopped
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
1. Prep the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (205°C). This ensures your scones will bake up perfectly golden and crisp. While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Mustard powder (if you’re using it)
- Garlic powder (optional)
Whisk until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. This will help create a smooth, well-leavened dough.
3. Cut in the Butter
Now, it’s time to add the cold butter. Cube the unsalted butter into small pieces and add it to the dry mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the flour. The goal is to create a coarse, crumbly texture with pea-sized pieces of butter. These butter chunks will melt during baking, leaving you with beautifully flaky scones.
4. Add the Cheese, Ham, and Chives
Once the butter is incorporated, toss in the Gruyère cheese, diced ham, and chopped chives. Stir gently to distribute them throughout the dough. The cheese will melt into the scones as they bake, creating gooey pockets of goodness.
5. Add the Cold Cream
Pour in the cold heavy cream and stir until the dough begins to come together. Don’t worry if the dough seems a bit shaggy at this point—that’s normal. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and gently press it into a rough disc. Avoid overworking the dough to maintain its light, flaky texture.
6. Shape the Dough
Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick disc. Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the disc into 8 wedges, like slicing a pizza. The scones should be about the same size so they bake evenly.
7. Finish and Bake
Place the scone wedges onto the prepared baking sheet. To give them an extra golden shine, brush the tops with a bit of heavy cream. Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden brown on top with crisp edges. When they’re done, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
8. Cool and Serve
Allow the scones to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. These scones are best enjoyed warm, and you can spread a little extra butter on top if you want an indulgent treat.
Variations of Savory Ham & Gruyère Scones
While the combination of ham and Gruyère is a classic, feel free to get creative and add your own twist to these savory scones. Here are a few variations you might consider:
- Cheese Swap: If you can’t find Gruyère, try using Swiss cheese, Comté, or even a sharp cheddar.
- Herb Variations: For added flavor, mix in rosemary, thyme, or sage instead of or alongside the chives.
- Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the dry ingredients.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the ham and add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Savory Ham & Gruyère Scones
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and shape it into wedges, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to let the dough sit at room temperature for a few minutes before baking, as it will be cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze these Ham and cheese scones?
Absolutely! To freeze, shape the scones and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them into the oven from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use low-fat cream or milk instead of heavy cream?
While you can substitute with milk or low-fat cream, keep in mind that the scones may not be as rich and flaky. Heavy cream is key to getting that perfect, tender crumb.
Conclusion: Savory Ham & Gruyère Scones
These Savory Ham & Gruyère Scones are the epitome of comfort food, combining rich flavors, a light, flaky texture, and a perfect balance of cheese and ham. Whether you’re serving them at brunch or enjoying them as a snack with a bowl of soup, they are sure to impress. Easy to make, versatile in ingredients, and utterly delicious, these scones are the perfect treat for any occasion. Happy baking!
