Buttermilk Cheese Scones with Garlic and Chili

Golden, tender, and packed with bold flavor, these Buttermilk Cheese Scones with Garlic and Chili are everything a savory scone should be. They’re rich with melty cheddar, speckled with spicy green chilies and fresh herbs, and finished with a drizzle of garlicky butter. One bite and you’ll understand why these scones never last long once they hit the table.

Behind the Recipe

I first whipped up these scones on a rainy afternoon when I wanted something cozy, cheesy, and just a little fiery. I had a bunch of green chilies, a handful of cheddar, and some buttermilk leftover in the fridge. One mixing bowl later, these scones emerged from the oven—steaming hot, tender inside, and crusted with golden cheese and crispy edges. Let me tell you, they were an instant hit.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Scones have long been a staple in British baking, traditionally leaning toward the sweet side and served with jam and clotted cream. But savory scones? They’re a whole other world. This version fuses the traditional flakiness of a British scone with the bold flavors of South Asian-inspired chili, garlic, and fresh herbs. It’s a beautiful meeting of comfort and spice.

Why You’ll Love Buttermilk Cheese Scones with Garlic and Chili

These are no ordinary scones—they bring flavor, heat, and flaky goodness in every bite.

Versatile: Perfect as a snack, brunch side, or savory breakfast.

Budget-Friendly: Made from affordable pantry staples and basic produce.

Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Customizable: Adjust the heat, switch the herbs, or add your favorite cheese.

Crowd-Pleasing: Fluffy inside, cheesy outside, and full of bold flavor.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Mix the dough ahead and bake when ready.

Great for Leftovers: Reheat in the oven or toaster for that fresh-baked texture.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Savory scones are a breeze with a few insider moves. Here’s what works best:

• Freeze the Butter: Cold butter creates steam during baking, giving you light, fluffy layers.
• Grate Butter Into Flour: It distributes more evenly than chunks, ensuring flakiness.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to avoid toughness.
• Use a Sharp Cutter: A clean cut helps the scones rise tall.
• Brush with Garlic Butter Right Out of the Oven: It soaks in while warm and boosts flavor.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need much, just some kitchen basics to make these magic happen.

Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all the dry and wet ingredients.

Box Grater: To shred both butter and cheese easily.

Pastry Cutter or Fork: Helps blend butter into the flour.

Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper: For even baking and easy cleanup.

Brush: To glaze the scones with melted garlic butter.

Sharp Biscuit Cutter or Knife: For neat scone shaping and height.

Ingredients in Buttermilk Cheese Scones with Garlic and Chili

Each ingredient works together to bring texture, heat, and cheesy goodness in every bite.

1. All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups – Forms the base structure for the scones
2. Salted Butter: 1/2 cup (frozen) – Adds richness and flakiness when grated into the dough
3. Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup – Melts into pockets of cheesy goodness
4. Kosher Salt: 1/2 teaspoon – Balances the heat and sharp cheese
5. Sugar: 1 teaspoon – Enhances the overall flavor
6. Baking Soda: 1/2 teaspoon – Works with buttermilk to help the scones rise
7. Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons (aluminum-free) – Gives that lovely lift
8. Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon – Adds warmth without overpowering
9. Freshly Ground Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon – Adds depth and spice
10. Spicy Green Chilies (Thai green peppers): 4, finely minced – Packs a spicy punch
11. Cilantro: 1/4 cup finely chopped – Adds fresh, herby brightness
12. Green Onions: 1/4 cup finely chopped – Lends a subtle sharpness and freshness
13. Buttermilk: 1 cup, chilled – Keeps the scones tender and light

For brushing on top:

14. Melted Butter: 1 tablespoon – Gives a glossy finish
15. Minced Garlic: 2 teaspoons – Infuses the topping with bold flavor
16. Chopped Cilantro: 1 teaspoon – A pop of green and herbiness
17. Nigella Seeds (optional): 1/2 teaspoon – Adds an aromatic crunch

Ingredient Substitutions

Need a few swaps? No problem.

Cheddar Cheese: Use pepper jack, gouda, or mozzarella for a twist
Green Chilies: Jalapeños or serranos work too
Buttermilk: Use 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
Cilantro: Try parsley or fresh dill
Nigella Seeds: Black sesame or leave them out entirely

Ingredient Spotlight

Buttermilk: This acidic dairy star reacts with baking soda and powder, helping the scones rise while making the crumb extra tender.

Green Chilies: These tiny but mighty peppers infuse the dough with bold heat and sharp flavor, giving these scones their signature bite.

Instructions for Making Buttermilk Cheese Scones with Garlic and Chili

Here’s how to make these savory, spicy scones from scratch:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, whisk flour, salt, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Grate the frozen butter into the dry ingredients. Add the shredded cheese, green chilies, cilantro, and green onions. Toss gently to combine.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Pour in chilled buttermilk and stir gently with a fork until dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Turn the dough onto a floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick disc. Cut into rounds using a sharp biscuit cutter. Place scones on the baking sheet.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and risen. While they bake, melt butter and stir in garlic and cilantro. Brush over warm scones and sprinkle with nigella seeds if using.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve warm with a pat of butter or your favorite savory spread.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

These scones strike a beautiful balance — flaky and golden on the outside, tender and airy inside. The cheese melts into salty pockets, the chilies add sharp heat, and the garlic butter soaks into every crevice, creating layers of flavor with every bite.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

These extra tips will help you nail it every time:

• Freeze your butter at least 30 minutes ahead.
• Handle the dough gently to keep scones fluffy.
• Use cold ingredients to keep butter from melting early.
• Cut straight down without twisting for a taller rise.

What to Avoid

A few things can flatten your scone dreams, so avoid these:

• Don’t overmix — it toughens the dough.
• Don’t let butter soften — keep it cold for best texture.
• Don’t skip parchment — helps prevent over-browning on the bottom.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 10 scones
Calories per serving: 230

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can mix the dry ingredients and prep the butter ahead of time. Shape and refrigerate scones unbaked for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 1 month. To store baked scones, cool completely and keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to bring back their crisp edges.

How to Serve Buttermilk Cheese Scones with Garlic and Chili

Serve warm as a savory breakfast with eggs or alongside a bowl of soup or salad. They’re also perfect for brunch spreads, packed lunches, or even as a snack with chai or coffee. Drizzle with a little honey or hot sauce for a unique twist.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Don’t let a single scone go to waste:

• Split and toast for mini breakfast sandwiches.
• Crumble over soups as a crunchy topping.
• Slice in half and fill with scrambled eggs or sliced avocado.

Additional Tips

• Add a dash of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
• Brush scones again with butter just before serving to refresh them.
• Freeze leftover scones and reheat in the oven for a quick snack anytime.

Make It a Showstopper

Present your scones on a wire rack or rustic tray, garnished with extra herbs and a bowl of melted garlic butter on the side. Sprinkle a few nigella seeds and flaky salt on top for a professional, bakery-style finish.

Variations to Try

• Extra Cheesy: Mix in two types of cheese like cheddar and parmesan.
• Mild Version: Skip the chilies or use a milder pepper.
• Smoky Scones: Add chopped roasted red pepper or smoked paprika.
• Herb-Heavy: Add rosemary, thyme, or dill.
• Mini Bites: Make smaller rounds for party appetizers.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make these without buttermilk?

A1: Yes. Use 1 cup of milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar.

Q2: Can I freeze the dough?

A2: Absolutely. Shape, freeze, and bake straight from frozen — just add 2–3 minutes to the bake time.

Q3: Can I make them less spicy?

A3: Use fewer or milder chilies like jalapeños or skip them altogether.

Q4: What’s the best cheese to use?

A4: Sharp cheddar works great, but gouda, mozzarella, or a mix is delicious too.

Q5: Can I make these gluten-free?

A5: Yes, substitute with a good-quality gluten-free flour blend.

Q6: How do I reheat leftovers?

A6: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes until warm and crisp.

Q7: Are these good for brunch?

A7: Perfect! Serve with eggs, fruit, and coffee for a savory spread.

Q8: What can I use instead of nigella seeds?

A8: Try sesame seeds or skip them — they’re totally optional.

Q9: Can I add more veggies?

A9: Finely chopped spinach or roasted bell peppers work well in moderation.

Q10: Do I need a biscuit cutter?

A10: No, a sharp knife or even a drinking glass will do the trick.

Conclusion

Buttermilk Cheese Scones with Garlic and Chili are everything you didn’t know you needed in a baked treat — cheesy, spicy, fluffy, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or just a mid-day snack, these scones deliver comfort with a kick. Trust me, they’re worth every single bite.

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