Apple Cheddar Scones

Apple Cheddar Scones Recipe - Delicious and Nutritious Breakfast Option

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25-30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Apple Cheddar Scones are a delightful blend of sweet and savory, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack. This recipe combines the classic flavors of tart apples and sharp cheddar cheese, enveloped in a tender, flaky scone. The addition of toasted wheat germ adds a nutty flavor and a boost of nutrition, making these scones not only delicious but also wholesome. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, these scones are simple to make and sure to impress.

History

The concept of combining apples and cheddar cheese has roots in British culinary traditions, where fruit and cheese have been paired for centuries. Scones, originally from Scotland, have evolved from simple oatmeal cakes to the more refined, sweet, and savory pastries we enjoy today. The Apple Cheddar Scone is a modern twist on these traditions, marrying the flavors of apple pie and cheese into a convenient and tasty pastry.

Ingredients

1.5 cup all-purpose flour
0.5 cup toasted wheat germ
3 tbsp sugar
2 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp salt
2 tbsp butter
1 Gala or golden delicious apple, cored and finely chopped
0.25 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 large egg white
0.5 cup low-fat (1%) milk

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Grease an 8-inch round cake pan.
In a medium bowl, combine flour, wheat germ, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Using a pastry blender or fork, cut in the butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Stir in the apple and cheddar cheese.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg white and milk until well combined.
Add the egg white mixture to the flour mixture, mixing gently until a soft dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it 4 times.
Spread the dough evenly in the cake pan and score it deeply with a knife to make six wedges.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top springs back when gently pressed.
Allow the cake to cool until it reaches a warm or room temperature.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. To make the scones vegan, use a plant-based butter alternative, dairy-free cheese, and substitute the egg white with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water).

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best texture, keep your butter cold and cut it into the flour mixture quickly to avoid melting. This ensures a flaky scone. When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, do so with a light hand to prevent overworking the dough, which can result in tough scones. For a more pronounced cheese flavor, consider adding an extra tablespoon of cheddar cheese on top of the scones before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these scones warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea in the morning or can be enjoyed as an afternoon snack with a slice of fresh apple or a dollop of apple butter for added sweetness.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the "rubbing-in" method, where cold butter is cut into the flour to create a crumbly texture. This technique is crucial for achieving the flaky layers characteristic of scones. Additionally, gently kneading the dough ensures it comes together without becoming tough.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have wheat germ, you can use an equal amount of ground flaxseed or additional flour. For a different flavor profile, try substituting the apple with pear or adding a handful of dried cranberries. Smoked cheddar cheese can also be used for a more intense cheese flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

The scone dough can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator overnight. Simply shape, score, and bake the scones the next morning for fresh, warm pastries. Baked scones can also be frozen and reheated for a quick breakfast option.

Presentation Ideas

For an attractive presentation, brush the tops of the scones with a little milk and sprinkle with a pinch of coarse sugar before baking. Serve on a rustic wooden board with slices of apple and cheese for a charming, country-style breakfast.

Pairing Recommendations

Apple Cheddar Scones are versatile and can be paired with both sweet and savory accompaniments. Try them with a sharp cheddar cheese spread, a sweet apple jam, or a creamy butter for a delightful contrast of flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single Apple Cheddar Scone contains approximately 200 calories. This makes it a suitable option for a light breakfast or snack, especially when paired with a healthy side like yogurt or fruit.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Apple Cheddar Scones contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the all-purpose flour and sugar, providing energy to start your day. The apples also contribute natural sugars and dietary fiber.

Fats

These scones contain about 8 grams of fat per serving, with the primary sources being butter and cheddar cheese. The use of low-fat milk helps to keep the overall fat content moderate, making these scones a relatively guilt-free indulgence.

Proteins

Each scone offers around 5 grams of protein, coming from the wheat germ, cheese, and milk. This amount contributes to the daily protein requirement, aiding in muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

Thanks to the ingredients like wheat germ and apples, these scones are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin D, calcium, and iron. The wheat germ is particularly rich in B vitamins and Vitamin E, while apples provide Vitamin C and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as wheat (gluten), dairy (milk, cheese), and eggs. Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should take caution or seek alternative recipes.

Summary

Overall, Apple Cheddar Scones offer a balanced blend of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. They are a nutritious option for those looking for a tasty, homemade pastry that contributes to a balanced diet.

Summary

Apple Cheddar Scones are a delicious and nutritious option for anyone looking to enjoy a homemade pastry. With their blend of sweet apples, sharp cheddar, and nutty wheat germ, these scones offer a unique flavor profile that is sure to please. Whether you're enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, these scones are a delightful treat that combines tradition with a modern twist.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a chilly autumn day, and I had just finished browsing through a cookbook that my dear friend had lent me. As I flipped through the pages, a recipe for Apple Cheddar Scones caught my eye. The combination of sweet apples and sharp cheddar cheese sounded like a perfect match, and I knew I had to give it a try.

I had always been passionate about cooking, and over the years, I had collected a vast array of recipes from various sources. Some were handed down to me from my own grandmother, while others I had picked up from cookbooks, cooking shows, and friends. Each recipe held a special place in my heart, and I cherished the memories associated with them.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions for the Apple Cheddar Scones, I felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me. It reminded me of the time I spent in my grandmother's kitchen as a young girl, watching her effortlessly whip up delicious meals and baked goods. She had a magical way of turning simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces, and I had always admired her skill and creativity.

I decided to make the Apple Cheddar Scones for my family that weekend. I gathered the necessary ingredients – flour, butter, sugar, apples, cheddar cheese, and a few other pantry staples – and got to work. As I mixed the dough and shaped it into scones, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. Cooking had always been a therapeutic activity for me, a way to relax and unwind after a long day.

The scones came out of the oven golden brown and fragrant, the cheese melted and gooey, the apples soft and sweet. I couldn't wait to share them with my family. As we sat around the table, enjoying the warm scones with cups of steaming tea, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction. The recipe had turned out beautifully, and my family loved it.

Over the years, the Apple Cheddar Scones became a regular feature on our family's breakfast table. They were a comforting and familiar presence, a reminder of the joy that cooking brought into our lives. I made them for special occasions and lazy Sunday mornings, for holidays and family gatherings. Each time, they brought smiles to our faces and warmth to our hearts.

As the years went by, I continued to experiment with the recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit our tastes. I added a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth, a dash of nutmeg for depth, a handful of chopped walnuts for crunch. Each variation brought its own unique flavor and character to the scones, and I loved the creative process of cooking and baking.

One day, as I was making the Apple Cheddar Scones for a brunch with friends, one of them asked me for the recipe. I happily shared it with her, recounting the story of how I had discovered it and how it had become a beloved family favorite. She was touched by the story and impressed by the scones, and she asked if she could pass the recipe on to her own friends.

And so, the recipe for Apple Cheddar Scones began to spread, making its way from friend to friend, family to family. Each person added their own twist to it, making it their own and sharing it with others. The scones became a symbol of community and connection, a way to bring people together and create new memories.

As I look back on that chilly autumn day when I first saw the recipe for Apple Cheddar Scones, I can't help but feel grateful for the journey it has taken me on. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to express love and creativity, and the scones have become a symbol of that. They are more than just a recipe – they are a story, a memory, a connection to the past and the future.

And so, I continue to make the Apple Cheddar Scones for my family and friends, passing on the recipe and the love that it holds. Each time I bake a batch, I am reminded of the joy that cooking brings into our lives, of the power of food to nourish both body and soul. And I am grateful for the simple pleasure of sharing a warm, delicious scone with the people I love.