Ham and Gruyère scones are a delightful twist on the traditional sweet scone, bringing together the rich flavors of savory ham and Gruyère cheese in a buttery, flaky pastry. Perfect for brunch or as a side to soups and salads, these scones are easy to make and absolutely delicious. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the recipe, helpful tips, and some flavor variations to try.
Ingredients and Preparation for Ham and Gruyère Scones
Before you start baking, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious savory scones:
- 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of mustard powder (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup of cold butter
- ¾ cup of Gruyère cheese, grated
- ¾ cup of ham, finely diced
- 1/3 cup of whole milk
- 1 large egg (for brushing the tops)
You’ll also need basic baking equipment such as mixing bowls, a scone cutter (or a knife), a baking sheet, and parchment paper for easy cleanup.
For more information on how to prepare these ingredients, check out this guide on how to make perfect scones to ensure your scones turn out beautifully.
Key Ingredients:
- Ham: Choose cooked ham or prosciutto, both of which offer excellent flavor and texture.
- Gruyère Cheese: This Swiss cheese brings a nutty, slightly salty flavor to the scones. It melts beautifully and adds a rich taste.
How to Make Ham and Gruyère Scones
Ham and Gruyère scones are a delicious savory treat that brings together the rich flavors of ham and Gruyère cheese in a buttery, flaky scone. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish, these scones are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for yourself or impressing guests, this guide will walk you through every step of the process.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients
Start by sifting the flour, baking powder, salt, and mustard powder (if using). Sifting helps to aerate the dry ingredients, which is essential for a light, fluffy scone.
Cut in the Cold Butter
Add the cold butter into the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The butter needs to remain cold to create pockets of air, which will result in a flaky texture.
Add the Cheese and Ham
Once the butter is incorporated, stir in the grated Gruyère cheese and diced ham. This is what gives the scones their savory, delicious flavor. Mix gently, being careful not to overwork the dough.
Bring the Dough Together
Make a well in the center of the mixture and pour in the milk. Use a spoon or spatula to stir until the dough just comes together. Don’t overmix it, as this can make the scones tough.
Shape the Scones
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Roll it out to about 1-inch thickness. Using a round cutter or a sharp knife, cut the dough into rounds or wedges, depending on your preference. Place the scones onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the Scones
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush the tops of the scones with a little beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake the scones for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and have risen nicely.
Cool and Serve
Remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. These scones are best enjoyed warm.
Tips for Perfect Ham and Gruyère Scones
Making Ham and Gruyère scones can be a simple and rewarding baking project. However, to get the best results, it’s important to follow a few key tips that will ensure your scones turn out light, flaky, and full of flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these tips will help you perfect your savory scone game.
1. Use Cold Butter
Cold butter is one of the most important ingredients for making flaky scones. When you incorporate cold butter into the flour, it forms small pockets that create steam as the scones bake, resulting in a light and flaky texture.
- Tip: Cut the butter into small cubes before adding it to the flour mixture. If possible, chill the butter in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes before using it in the dough.
2. Don’t Overwork the Dough
One of the key elements of making perfect scones is not overworking the dough. Overmixing can cause the dough to become dense, which will result in tough scones rather than the light, fluffy texture we’re aiming for.
- Tip: Gently mix the ingredients with a spoon or spatula until the dough just comes together. When it does, stop mixing.
3. Use Fresh, High-Quality Ham and Gruyère Cheese
The flavor of your scones will depend heavily on the quality of your ingredients, especially the ham and Gruyère cheese. Choose fresh, flavorful ham, and opt for real Gruyère cheese, which has a nutty, rich taste and melts beautifully in the scone dough.
- Tip: Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains additives that prevent it from melting properly. Instead, grate your own Gruyère for the best texture and flavor.
Storing and Serving Ham and Gruyère Scones
Ham and Gruyère scones are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can also be stored for later use.
- Storage: Keep the scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the scones and reheat them when needed.
- Reheating: To keep the scones fresh, reheat them in a warm oven (about 350°F) for 5-10 minutes.
These scones are great served with butter, jam, or even alongside a salad or soup for a complete meal.
FAQs About Ham and Gruyère Scones
1. Can I make Ham and Gruyère Scones ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and freeze it before baking. Simply shape the scones, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a bag or container and store them in the freezer. Bake from frozen at 425°F for about 18-20 minutes.
2. Can I substitute Gruyère cheese?
If you don’t have Gruyère, you can substitute with other melting cheeses like cheddar, Swiss cheese, or monterey jack. Each will give a slightly different flavor but still work well with the ham.
3. What other ingredients can I add to Ham and Gruyère Scones?
You can try adding chopped onions, spinach, or even a dash of mustard for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme also complement the ham and cheese wonderfully.
4. Can I make these scones gluten-free?
Yes, you can make Ham and Gruyère Scones gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check if the flour blend contains xanthan gum to help with texture.
5. What’s the best way to store leftover scones?
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days, or freeze them for longer storage. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 5-10 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Ham and Gruyère scones are the perfect savory treat for any occasion, from casual breakfasts to elegant brunches. The combination of ham and Gruyère cheese creates a rich, flavorful scone that is both buttery and flaky. Experiment with your favorite cheeses, herbs, and add-ins to create your own variations. Don’t forget, if you want to make these scones ahead of time, you can always freeze them and bake them when you’re ready to enjoy.
These savory scones are simple to make and a guaranteed hit with family and friends!
