Cheese scones

🧀 Classic Cheese Scones

Ingredients:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or dry mustard (optional, for extra flavor)

• ¼ cup (60g) cold unsalted butter, cubed

• 1 cup (100g) grated sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

• ¾ cup (180ml) milk (plus extra for brushing)

• 1 egg (optional – for richer dough)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix dry ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cayenne or mustard if using.

3. Cut in butter:

   • Add cold butter cubes and rub into the flour mixture using fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Add cheese:

   • Stir in grated cheese.

5. Mix the dough:

   • Make a well in the center and pour in the milk (and beaten egg, if using).

   • Mix gently with a fork or spoon until just combined. Do not overmix.

6. Shape and cut:

   • Turn dough out onto a floured surface. Pat gently to about ¾-inch (2 cm) thick.

   • Cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter or cut into triangles/squares.

7. Top and bake:

   • Place s