Flavorful Bacon Cheddar Chive Scones Recipe Perfect for Brunch

The smell of freshly baked scones wafting through the kitchen—crispy on the outside, buttery on the inside, and packed with smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and fresh chives—there’s nothing quite like it! This recipe was born one lazy Sunday morning when I wanted something savory and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. Bacon cheddar chive scones deliver everything you’d expect from a bakery favorite but are surprisingly easy to whip up at home. Whether you’re planning brunch with friends or simply want to treat yourself, these scones are the answer to your cravings.

Over the years, I’ve perfected this recipe, tweaking the ingredients for maximum flavor and fluffy texture. You’ll love how versatile these scones are—serve them with a pat of butter, alongside a bowl of soup, or as part of a breakfast spread. Plus, they’re just as delicious fresh from the oven as they are reheated the next day! Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe for bacon cheddar chive scones that’ll elevate your brunch game to the next level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’ve never tried savory scones before, prepare to be amazed! These bacon cheddar chive scones are truly the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Here’s why I think you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:

• Quick and easy: Ready in under an hour, these scones are ideal for busy mornings or spontaneous brunch plans.
• Simple ingredients: No fancy grocery trips required—most of the ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find at your local store.
• Perfect for brunch: Whether hosting a crowd or enjoying a cozy breakfast at home, these scones are a guaranteed hit.
• Crowd-pleaser: Packed with smoky, cheesy goodness, they’re loved by kids and adults alike.
• Unbelievably delicious: The crisp edges, fluffy center, and savory combination of bacon, cheddar, and chives make them irresistible.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors. The smoky bacon complements the sharp cheddar, while the fresh chives add a pop of brightness. Plus, the texture is just perfect—not too dense, not too crumbly. I’ve tested this recipe countless times, and it’s consistently a winner!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create that perfect blend of savory flavors and tender texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour: The base of the scone dough. If needed, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Baking powder: Gives the scones their rise and fluffy texture.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors—don’t skip this!
• Unsalted butter: Cold and cubed; it creates those irresistible flaky layers.
• Cooked bacon: Crumbled or chopped for smoky flavor. Thick-cut bacon works best.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Freshly grated for maximum flavor and meltiness.
• Fresh chives: Finely chopped, these add a subtle oniony zing.
• Egg: Helps bind the dough together.
• Heavy cream: Adds richness and moisture to the scones.

If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t worry! You can swap bacon for ham, turkey, or even chicken. For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add extra cheese and chives. And if you prefer a stronger flavor, try smoked gouda or pepper jack instead of cheddar.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy equipment to make these scones. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls: A large one for the dry ingredients and a smaller one for the wet ingredients.
• Pastry cutter or forks: For cutting butter into the flour. If you don’t have a pastry cutter, two forks work just fine.
• Baking sheet: Lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Rolling pin: Optional, but helpful for flattening the dough.
• Knife or biscuit cutter: To shape your scones.

If you’re new to baking, don’t stress! This recipe is forgiving, and you can easily improvise. For example, a wine bottle works as a rolling pin in a pinch, and you can shape the dough by hand instead of using a cutter.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cook the bacon: Fry or bake the bacon until crispy, then crumble or chop into small pieces. Set aside to cool.
3. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
4. Add butter: Cut 1/2 cup (115g) cold, cubed unsalted butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Stir in mix-ins: Gently fold in the crumbled bacon, 1 cup (100g) grated cheddar cheese, and 2 tablespoons chopped chives.
6. Combine wet ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 large egg and 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream.
7. Form the dough: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
8. Shape and cut: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, pat into a 1-inch thick circle, and cut into 8 triangles or use a biscuit cutter for round scones.
9. Bake: Transfer scones to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro tip: If your dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour until it’s easier to handle. And don’t skip the parchment paper—it makes cleanup a breeze!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some of my favorite tips and tricks for ensuring your bacon cheddar chive scones turn out perfectly every time:

• Keep your ingredients cold: Cold butter is the key to flaky scones. If the butter starts to soften, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.
• Don’t overmix: Overworking the dough can lead to dense scones. Mix gently until just combined.
• Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that can affect the texture. Grating your own ensures the best melt and flavor.
• Chill the dough: If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate the shaped scones for 10-15 minutes before baking to maintain their shape.
• Experiment with flavors: Add a pinch of cayenne or garlic powder for extra zing, or swap out the mix-ins for other favorites.

These tips come from trial and error, so trust me—they make a difference. Once you master the basics, you can easily adapt the recipe to your taste!

Variations & Adaptations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Vegetarian version: Skip the bacon and add sun-dried tomatoes or caramelized onions for a savory twist.
• Low-carb option: Swap the all-purpose flour for almond flour and adjust the liquid slightly. You’ll get a denser, nutty scone that’s still delicious.
• Seasonal touch: Use fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley instead of chives, or try adding diced roasted vegetables like bell peppers or squash.
• Cheese swap: Experiment with other cheeses like gouda, feta, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

Personally, I love mixing in jalapeños for a spicy kick—especially when paired with sharp cheddar. It’s a game-changer!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These scones are best served warm and fresh from the oven, but don’t worry—they’re just as tasty the next day! Here’s how to serve and store them:

• Serving: Enjoy these scones as-is or with a smear of butter. Pair them with scrambled eggs, a fresh salad, or a steaming bowl of soup for a complete meal.
• Storage: Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap scones individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm scones in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or microwave for 20-30 seconds.

The flavors actually deepen after a day or two, making these scones a great make-ahead option for busy mornings or gatherings.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s an estimate of the nutritional value per scone:

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 15g
• Sodium: 350mg

The bacon and cheddar provide protein and a satisfying savory flavor, while the chives add a dose of vitamins A and K. For those following a gluten-free or low-carb diet, adaptations are simple and still delicious.

Conclusion

These flavorful bacon cheddar chive scones aren’t just a recipe—they’re a little slice of comfort that’ll brighten your day. Whether you’re serving them for brunch, pairing them with soup, or enjoying one as a standalone snack, their savory goodness is hard to resist. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be making it on repeat!

Give these scones a try, and don’t forget to share your creations in the comments below. I’d love to hear how you customize them—whether it’s adding your favorite herbs or swapping bacon for ham. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this recipe?

Yes, but freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a richer flavor.

Can I make these scones ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake them in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage.

How do I keep the scones from spreading too much?

Chill the dough for 10-15 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.

Can I use different herbs besides chives?

Definitely! Try rosemary, thyme, or parsley for a different flavor profile.

What’s the best way to reheat these scones?

Reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds for a quick fix.

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