Apple Cheddar Scones

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.

3. 3

   Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients. Use your fingers or a pastry blender to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.

4. 4

   Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the finely diced apple, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

5. 5

   Pour in the cold buttermilk and mix with a fork or your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the scones tough.

6. 6

   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times, just until it comes together. Avoid overworking the dough.

7. 7

   Pat the dough into a 3/4-inch thick round or rectangle. Use a biscuit cutter or a knife to cut out 8 scones.

8. 8

   Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of cheddar cheese.

9. 9

   Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and cooked through. Let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.