How to Make Tasty Herb and Cheese Scones

### Instructions:

#### Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to **425°F (220°C)**. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the scones from sticking and for easy cleanup.

#### Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the **all-purpose flour**, **baking powder**, **salt**, **garlic powder**, and **black pepper**. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which will lead to a more consistent texture.

#### Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed **butter** to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your hands, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs or small pea-sized pieces. The cold butter is essential for creating flaky scones, so make sure not to overwork it. If the mixture gets too warm, you can place it in the fridge for a few minutes to chill before moving on.

#### Step 4: Add Cheese and Herbs
Stir in the **shredded cheese** and your choice of **fresh herbs**. The cheese adds richness, and the herbs will infuse the dough with delightful flavors. Feel free to experiment with different combinations, such as rosemary and cheddar, thyme and Gruyère, or chives and mozzarella, depending on your preference.

#### Step 5: Mix in Wet Ingredients
Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the **milk** (or cream, if you’re looking for extra richness). Use a wooden spoon or a spatula to gently mix until the dough begins to come together. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the scones dense. If the dough seems too dry, you can add a little more milk, a tablespoon at a time.

#### Step 6: Shape the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it down gently to form a thick disk, about 1 inch high. Using a sharp knife or a dough cutter, slice the dough into 8 wedges, similar to cutting a pizza. Alternatively, you can use a round cutter for traditional scone shapes.

#### Step 7: Brush and Bake
Transfer the scone wedges to the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, beat the **egg** and lightly brush the top of each scone with the egg wash. This will help them achieve a golden, shiny crust as they bake.

Place the scones in the oven and bake for about **12-15 minutes** or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid overbaking.

#### Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. Serve warm with butter, or as an accompaniment to your favorite soup, salad, or main dish.

### Tips for Perfect Herb and Cheese Scones:

– **Use Cold Butter**: The key to flaky scones is cold butter. Make sure your butter is well-chilled, and handle the dough as gently as possible to maintain that light, flaky texture.
– **Don’t Overmix the Dough**: Overmixing will lead to dense scones. Mix until the dough just comes together, and be careful not to knead it too much.
– **Experiment with Flavors**: You can easily modify this recipe by adding other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
– **Serve Immediately or Store Properly**: Scones are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispness.

### Why You’ll Love These Herb and Cheese Scones:

– **A Savory Breakfast or Snack**: These scones are a great alternative to sweet breakfast pastries, offering a savory, satisfying start to your day.
– **Perfect for Brunch**: Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a meal with friends, herb and cheese scones pair beautifully with everything from eggs to soup.
– **Quick and Easy to Make**: This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice when you need something quick but delicious.

### Conclusion:

Herb and cheese scones are the ultimate comfort food—fluffy, flavorful, and quick to make. With their rich, cheesy flavor and aromatic herbs, these scones are sure to impress at your next brunch or tea party. Plus, they’re simple enough to whip up on any busy morning or when you’re craving something savory. Try making them today and enjoy the warm, buttery goodness of homemade scones—your taste buds will thank you!