Oh my goodness, have I got a treat for you today! I’m here to share my love for Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones, a recipe that’s become a staple in my kitchen. There’s something wonderfully comforting about the combination of creamy ricotta, fresh herbs, and buttery goodness in every bite. I remember the first time I made these scones—it was a rainy Saturday morning, and I just felt like filling the house with some cozy, delicious aromas. My family woke up to the smell of freshly baked scones, and from that day on, they’ve been begging me to make them every weekend!
Now, the unique thing about these scones is not just their soft, fluffy texture, but also how versatile they are. You can enjoy them for breakfast, serve them as a fancy snack at a gathering, or even pair them with a lovely soup for lunch. Here’s a recipe that I’m sure you’ll love just as much as I do!
What’s in Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones?
Let’s break down the star players in this delightful dish:
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy, luscious cheese adds a rich and moist texture to the scones, making them velvety soft. I love using whole-milk ricotta for that extra creaminess, but part-skim works too!
Scallions: These green onions give a lovely mild onion flavor and a fresh crunch. I go for the tender green parts to add color and flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
Fresh Herbs: Here’s where you can get creative! I typically use a mix of parsley and chives, but feel free to add basil, thyme, or whatever is fresh and fragrant from your garden or local market.
Flour, Baking Powder, and Salt: The base of the scone! The baking powder gives them that lovely rise, while the salt enhances all the flavors.
Oh, and don’t forget a little butter for a crisp golden crust—yum!
Is Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones Good for You?
You might be wondering if indulging in these scones will have you abandoning your healthy eating goals. Let me assure you—they can definitely fit into a balanced diet! Here’s a little health breakdown:
Ricotta Cheese: Packed with protein and calcium, ricotta isn’t just delicious, it’s good for your bones and muscles. Just be mindful of portion sizes since it’s still a dairy product.
Scallions: Low in calories and high in vitamins A and K, scallions add some nutritional value while providing a delightful crunch.
Herbs: Fresh herbs are not just for flavor—they can be packed with antioxidants and offer additional health benefits. Plus, they brighten up any dish, don’t they?
Now, while these scones are definitely a treat, I recommend enjoying them in moderation—it’s easy to devour a few too many in one sitting (trust me, I know!).
Ingredients
This recipe makes about 8 scones. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 4 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup ricotta cheese (preferably whole milk)
– 1/3 cup chopped scallions (white and green parts)
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped herbs (like parsley and chives)
– 1/4 cup milk (more if needed)
How to Make Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones?
Let’s get to the good part—the making!
1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. **Mix the Dry Ingredients**: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. **Cut in the Butter**: Add the cold butter pieces to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. It’s okay if there are some larger chunks!
4. **Combine the Wet Ingredients**: In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, chopped scallions, and herbs. Stir in the milk until it comes together into a thick mass.
5. **Mix Everything Together**: Pour the ricotta mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those scones to be tender!
6. **Shape the Scones**: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it out into a circle, about 1-inch thick. Cut into wedges (like a pizza) or use a biscuit cutter to make rounds.
7. **Bake**: Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 18-20 minutes or until they are golden brown.
8. **Serve & Enjoy**: Allow the scones to cool for a couple of minutes. Serve warm with a pat of butter or even some cream cheese for that extra indulgence!
Delicious Tips for Scone Success!
– For a little kick, consider adding some freshly grated cheese into the dough. Cheddar works wonderfully!
– These scones freeze well—just wrap them in foil after baking and freeze. You can pop them in the toaster or oven to reheat them later.
– Try experimenting with the herbs based on the season. Dill in spring or rosemary in the fall can make for delightful variations.
I hope you give this recipe a try because it truly is one of my all-time favorites! The joy of pulling those soft, fragrant scones out of the oven and the smiles they bring to the faces of my loved ones is simply priceless. Be sure to let me know how yours turn out; I can’t wait to hear! Happy baking!
