Mary Berry's Cheese Scones: A Recipe for Perfect Golden Bites

Mary Berry, a household name synonymous with baking excellence, has a recipe for cheese scones that's both simple and utterly delicious. These aren't your average scones; they're fluffy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible. This guide will walk you through creating Mary Berry's perfect cheese scones, ensuring golden-brown perfection every time. We'll cover everything from ingredient selection to baking tips, optimizing this post for search engines while keeping the tone friendly and approachable.

Ingredients for Mary Berry's Cheese Scones:

This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for even novice bakers. Ensure you use good quality ingredients for the best results.

• 225g self-raising flour: This is crucial for the light and fluffy texture. Don't substitute plain flour unless you add baking powder.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Adds extra lift to your scones. Check the expiry date to ensure effectiveness.
• 50g cold butter, cubed: Cold butter is key to flaky scones. Cut it into small cubes directly from the fridge.
• 100g mature cheddar cheese, grated: A sharp cheddar provides the best flavor. Grate it yourself for a finer texture than pre-grated cheese.
• 150ml milk: Use full-fat milk for richer flavor and a softer crumb.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances the overall taste.
• Milk or egg wash (optional): For a golden brown finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Mastering Mary Berry's Cheese Scone Recipe

Follow these steps carefully to achieve that perfect Mary Berry result:

1. Preparing the Dry Ingredients:

• Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan/Gas Mark 7). This ensures even baking.
• Sift the flour and baking powder into a large bowl. This aerates the flour, leading to lighter scones.
• Add the grated cheese and salt, mixing gently.

2. Incorporating the Fat:

• Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture.
• Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Avoid over-mixing at this stage.

3. Adding the Wet Ingredients:

• Gradually add the milk, mixing gently with a knife until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

4. Shaping the Scones:

• Lightly flour a work surface.
• Turn the dough out onto the surface and gently pat it down to a thickness of about 2cm.
• Use a 5cm round cutter (or a knife) to cut out scones. Avoid twisting the cutter, as this can make the scones tough.

5. Baking the Scones:

• Place the scones onto a baking tray lined with baking paper.
• Brush with milk or egg wash (optional) for a glossy finish.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until well-risen and golden brown.

6. Serving your Delicious Cheese Scones:

• Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
• Serve warm with butter, jam, or your favorite savory spread.

Tips for Perfect Cheese Scones:

• Cold ingredients are key: This ensures flaky scones.
• Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing develops the gluten, resulting in tough scones.
• Handle the dough gently: Avoid excessive kneading.
• Use a sharp cutter: This ensures clean edges and prevents the scones from spreading.

FAQs about Mary Berry's Cheese Scones:

Q: Can I freeze cheese scones?

A: Yes! Cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese?

A: Absolutely! Experiment with other cheeses like Red Leicester, Cheshire, or even a mix of cheeses.

Q: What if my scones are too dry?

A: You may have added too little milk. Next time, add a little more milk gradually.

This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to bake Mary Berry's perfect cheese scones. Enjoy! Remember to share your baking triumphs on social media using relevant hashtags like #MaryBerry #CheeseScones #Baking. Happy baking!