When the chill of early fall settles in, I find myself craving warm, hearty snacks that welcome the changing seasons. That’s when I first experimented with making Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones, a delightful twist on your traditional scone that’s bursting with fresh flavors. Picture it: buttery, flaky scones infused with fragrant herbs and topped with just a hint of smoked paprika.
I was initially looking for a simple solution to upgrade my tea time—something that would impress my friends when they came over for a cozy afternoon. To my delight, these savory scones not only elevated our gathering but became the centerpiece of conversation. They are incredibly versatile, serving as the perfect side for soups or as a standalone treat at breakfast.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll soon find a new favorite recipe that will make your kitchen smell heavenly. Perfect for satisfying your hunger without resorting to yet another bland meal, these Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones are destined to win hearts (and stomachs)! Let’s dive into the details and make some magic in your kitchen.
Why are Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones a Must-Try?
Perfect for gatherings: These delightful scones not only impress with their unique flavor but also become a topic of conversation at any gathering. Easy to prepare: With just a few ingredients and a straightforward method, they come together in no time, making them ideal for quick snacks or brunch. Herb-infused delight: Fresh herbs create a fragrant experience that elevates your taste buds. Versatile pairing: Enjoy them with soups, salads, or even as a stand-alone treat, allowing endless possibilities. Heavenly aroma: The smell wafting through your kitchen as they bake is irresistible, inviting everyone to the table. These scones are the perfect answer for those seeking flavorful, homemade alternatives to fast food!
Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones Ingredients
For the Scone Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Essential for that flaky texture, but you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – This helps the scones rise perfectly, ensuring a light and airy crumb.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances overall flavor; don’t skip it!
- 2 ¼ teaspoons sugar – Just a hint of sweetness to balance the savory ingredients.
- 5 tablespoons chilled unsalted butter – Creates that irresistible flakiness; make sure it’s really cold!
- ½ cup green onions or scallions, chopped – Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor; you can swap with chives for a different taste.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, minced – Brightens up the scones with its fresh notes.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves – Gives a lovely earthiness; use dried thyme if fresh isn’t available.
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, minced – A tiny bit goes a long way for aromatic flavor.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – The star of the show, providing creaminess and moisture to these savory scones!
- ⅔ cup milk – Helps bind the dough together; you can use a plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
- 1 large egg (beaten with 1 teaspoon water) – This egg wash gives the scones a beautiful golden color.
For the Topping
- Sea salt – A sprinkle on top enhances the overall flavor beautifully.
- Black pepper – Freshly ground adds a nice peppery kick.
- Smoked paprika – This gives a hint of smokiness, elevating the flavor profile!
These Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones come together beautifully, making them a fantastic way to bring flavor and comfort into your kitchen!
How to Make Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones
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Preheat your oven to 425°F. This step is crucial to get those scones to bake perfectly and develop that beautiful golden crust.
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Whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. This dry mix sets the stage for your scones’ fluffy texture.
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Grate the chilled butter into the flour mixture, then stir with a fork until it resembles coarse meal. The cold butter will create flaky layers in your savory delight!
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Stir in the chopped scallions and fresh herbs. Then gently add the ricotta cheese and milk, combining until just mixed. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this keeps your scones tender.
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Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it with your hands just 2 to 3 times, then pat it into a 9-inch rectangle. Slice the dough into 12 equal pieces using a flour-dusted knife for easier cutting.
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Transfer the scones to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops generously with the egg wash, then sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika for added flavor.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and fragrant. Enjoy the heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen as they bake!
Optional: Serve warm with your favorite soup or spread for an irresistible treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones
- Chill the Butter: Ensure your butter is very cold for flakier scones. Grating it helps mix with flour without melting.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the dough, stir until just combined to keep your scones tender and light. Overmixing can lead to tough scones.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs make a world of difference in flavor. If needed, substitute dried herbs sparingly, as they are more potent.
- Egg Wash Precision: Apply the egg wash generously for a beautiful golden finish but avoid letting it drip onto the baking pan to prevent burning.
- Serve Warm: These Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. They’re heavenly warm and perfect with butter or spreads!
Make Ahead Options
These Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the recipe up to the point of cutting them into pieces. Once cut, cover the scones with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and brush the tops with the egg wash right before baking; they will come out just as delicious and flaky! To maintain quality, avoid adding toppings until just before baking, as they can lose their crunch in the fridge. Enjoy the convenience of fresh, flavorful scones whenever you need them!
Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to these delightful scones and create your unique masterpiece!
- Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these scones without gluten.
- Cheese Swap: Use feta or goat cheese instead of ricotta for a tangy flavor twist that adds a delightful creaminess.
- Add Bacon: Fold in cooked and crumbled bacon bits for an irresistible savory addition that brings smoky goodness to every bite.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give your scones a warm, fiery touch that’ll awaken your taste buds.
- Mixed Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like dill or basil for a fresh and unique flavor profile—perfect for herb lovers!
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Chopped sun-dried tomatoes can elevate these scones with bursts of tangy sweetness, adding complexity to each bite.
- Sweet Twist: For a breakfast variation, swap some herbs for a teaspoon of cinnamon and add dried fruit like raisins or cranberries.
- Nutty Texture: Mix in finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the fluffy scone texture.
These simple variations allow you to tailor the recipe to your tastes, making every batch a new experience!
What to Serve with Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones?
These delightful scones create the perfect canvas for a memorable meal that tantalizes your taste buds and warms your heart.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: The rich, tangy flavor pairs perfectly with the herbs in the scones, creating a comforting combination. A bowl of this warm soup adds a nostalgic touch to your dining experience.
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Fresh Green Salad: Tossed with a light vinaigrette, this salad introduces a refreshing crunch that beautifully balances the flaky texture of the scones. Think of bright cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and peppery arugula!
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Herbed Goat Cheese Spread: The creamy and tangy notes of goat cheese add a luscious layer of flavor, making each bite of scone feel luxurious. Spread it on a warm scone for an elevated snack.
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Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche packed with seasonal veggies complements the herbaceous notes of the scones. The creamy filling and flaky crust harmonize, making this a hearty pairing.
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Roasted Veggies: Caramelized flavors from seasonal vegetables enhance the scone’s fresh herbs while adding rich textures to your plate. Sweet roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts would be delightful alongside.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing beverage that adds bright, zesty notes. The bubbles contrast beautifully with the soft texture of the scones, making each sip uplifting.
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Chocolate Chip Cookie: End on a sweet note! The chocolate’s richness pairs beautifully with the savory scones, creating a delightful juxtaposition on your dessert table.
With these pairings, you won’t just have a meal; you’ll craft a heartwarming experience that your family and friends will cherish!
How to Store and Freeze Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones
Room Temperature: Enjoy your freshly baked scones the same day! If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their tenderness.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the scones in an airtight container, where they’ll stay good for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freezer: Freeze your Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen scones, bake them straight from the freezer at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through, restoring their delightful flakiness.
Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones Recipe FAQs
What type of ricotta cheese should I use?
I recommend using whole milk ricotta for the creamiest and richest flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, part-skim ricotta works well, too! Always check the expiration date to ensure freshness.
How should I store leftover scones?
To keep your leftover Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just reheat in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their delightful texture!
Can I freeze these scones?
Absolutely! To freeze your Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until fully frozen. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container where they will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them directly from the freezer at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
What should I do if my scones turn out tough?
If your scones are turning out tough, it often means the dough was overmixed. When combining your ingredients, stir until just combined and avoid excessive kneading. Also, remember that using very cold butter helps create that perfect flaky texture! Next time, mix gently and embrace the roughness of the dough for softer scones.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for fresh in this recipe, but use them sparingly since they are more potent. A good rule of thumb is to use about one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. So, if the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, use just 1 teaspoon of dried thyme instead!
Are these scones suitable for dietary restrictions?
If you’re considering dietary restrictions, these scones may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies due to the ricotta and milk used. However, you can swap the dairy ingredients for plant-based alternatives, such as almond milk and a dairy-free ricotta, to make them dairy-free. As always, be vigilant about checking labels to ensure there are no allergens present!
These Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones are not just delicious; they can easily be adapted to fit various needs, making them a delightful treat for everyone!
Delicious Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones for Home Chefs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
- Grate the chilled butter into the flour mixture, then stir with a fork until it resembles coarse meal.
- Stir in the chopped scallions and fresh herbs, then gently add the ricotta cheese and milk until just mixed.
- Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it just 2 to 3 times, then pat it into a 9-inch rectangle and slice into 12 equal pieces.
- Transfer the scones to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with egg wash, then sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant.