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Mary Berry Cheese Scones

Mary Berry Cheese Scones

Mary Berry’s Cheese Scones are a traditional British baked treat made from self-raising flour, butter, and cheese, bound together with milk and a touch of egg. They’re baked until golden brown and soft inside, offering a buttery flavour and melt-in-your-mouth texture. These scones are savoury, delicious on their own, and even better with a light spread of butter or chutney.

Ingredients

  • Self-raising flour – 225g

  • Baking powder – 1 tsp

  • Butter (cold, diced) – 50g

  • Salt – ¼ tsp

  • Cayenne pepper or mustard powder – pinch (optional, for extra flavour)

  • Mature cheddar cheese (grated) – 100g + extra for topping

  • Egg – 1 large

  • Milk – 100ml (plus extra for brushing)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the tray

Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan) / 425°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter.

Step 2: Combine dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine self-raising flour, baking powder, salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper or mustard powder. Stir well to evenly distribute.

Step 3: Rub in the butter

Add cold diced butter to the dry mixture. Using your fingertips, rub it in until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Add cheese

Stir in grated cheddar cheese, keeping a little aside for topping later. Mix lightly to coat the cheese evenly through the flour.

Step 5: Add egg and milk

In a small bowl, whisk the egg and milk together. Gradually pour into the flour mixture, mixing gently until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Do not overmix.

Step 6: Shape and cut the dough

Lightly flour your surface and turn out the dough. Roll or pat it to about 2cm thick. Cut out rounds using a 5cm cutter, re-rolling scraps gently as needed.

Step 7: Add toppings and bake

Place the scones on the prepared tray. Brush the tops with a little milk and sprinkle with the reserved cheese. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until risen and golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and serve

Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm with butter, chutney, or even a slice of ham for a savoury snack.