As the sun begins to rise and the kitchen fills with the warmth of freshly baked goods, I can’t help but be transported back to mornings spent with family, enjoying the soothing aroma of home-cooked delights. These Light and Fluffy Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones are just the ticket to transform your breakfast routine into something truly special. With their delicate balance of savory ricotta and fragrant herbs, they’re perfect for a leisurely brunch or as a delightful accompaniment to dinner.
What’s more, this easy recipe allows for endless variations—feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have in your pantry. From the first bite, you’ll experience a melt-in-your-mouth texture, a hallmark of a well-made scone. Say goodbye to bland fast food breakfasts and hello to a flavorful, homemade option that’s sure to impress! Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, these scones will bring a touch of warmth and cheer to any gathering. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why You’ll Love These Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones
Light and Fluffy: These scones deliver a texture that is irresistibly airy, making each bite a heavenly experience.
Quick & Easy: With minimal hands-on time, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy mornings!
Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh herbs and savory ricotta creates bold flavors that elevate any meal.
Customizable: Feel free to get creative with your ingredient swaps, ensuring you can enjoy this recipe no matter what’s in your pantry.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether served at breakfast or with soup and salad, these scones are sure to impress your family and friends!
Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones Ingredients
For the Scone Base
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the scone; substitute with whole wheat pastry flour for added nutrition.
• Baking Powder – Helps the scones rise for that fluffy texture; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Salt – Enhances flavors; can be slightly reduced for a lower sodium option.
• Sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the savory; feel free to omit if you prefer.
• Chilled Unsalted Butter – Contributes to flakiness; consider grating it for easier mixing.
For the Flavorings
• Green Onions (Scallions) – Offers a mild onion flavor; substitute with chives for a different note.
• Fresh Parsley – Provides a vibrant herbal touch; dried parsley works in a pinch but is less aromatic.
• Fresh Thyme – Brings earthy tones; can be replaced with oregano if desired.
• Fresh Rosemary – Adds a piney flavor; dill is a great alternative for a unique twist.
• Ricotta Cheese – Ensures moisture and tenderness in the scones; cottage cheese or Greek yogurt can substitute for a tangier taste.
• Milk – Hydrates the dough; use soy or almond milk for a non-dairy option.
For the Finishing Touches
• Beaten Egg (for wash) – Binds and adds shine; skip if you’re going for a vegan version.
• Sea Salt, Black Pepper, Smoked Paprika – Season to enhance flavors; adjust to your preference.
These Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones come together beautifully with these simple yet versatile ingredients. Enjoy mixing and matching to create your perfect batch!
How to Make Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) so it’s hot and ready for baking these delightful scones.
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Prepare Dry Mix: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Grate the chilled butter into the mix, stirring until the texture resembles coarse meal, about 1-2 minutes.
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Add Flavorings: Gently fold in the chopped scallions, fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary. The aroma will begin to fill your kitchen as you blend in these fragrant herbs.
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Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the ricotta cheese and milk to the mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep those fluffy scones tender!
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Knead & Shape Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead gently 2 to 3 times just to bring it together. Pat the dough into a 9-inch rectangle, then cut it into 12 equal pieces.
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Prepare for Baking: Place the scone pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika for extra flavor.
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Bake: Pop them in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and fragrant, filling your home with deliciousness.
Optional: Serve warm with a dollop of butter for an indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the dry ingredients and grating the butter before refrigerating it. Just make sure to keep the mixture covered to maintain freshness. On the day you plan to enjoy them, simply add in the wet ingredients, shape the dough, and bake it straight from the fridge. Alternatively, you can bake the scones and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To enjoy, reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, ensuring they’re just as delicious as the day they were made!
Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones Variations
Feel free to play with these delightful variations and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
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Herb Swap: Replace parsley and thyme with fresh basil or dill for a lighter flavor profile. Each combination brings a new personality to these scones!
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Cheese Boost: Try adding crumbled feta or sharp cheddar cheese, enhancing the richness and giving a wonderful tang. The melted cheese creates a dreamy texture that will make your taste buds sing.
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Vegetarian Twist: Stir in finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to pack in extra nutrients and vibrant color. Both add a delightful burst of flavor that perfectly complements the savory notes.
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Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that elevates the savory flavor. Just a hint can beautifully balance the richness of the ricotta and herbs.
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Speedy Prep: For a quicker version, use store-bought biscuit dough and mix in herbs and ricotta for a time-saving hack that still delivers on flavor.
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Nutty Texture: Fold in roasted walnuts or pine nuts for added crunch and a lovely nutty aroma. The different textures will create an interesting experience for your palate.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend to make these scones accessible for everyone at your table. The fluffy texture can still shine through!
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Vegan Option: For a plant-based alternative, use a vegan butter substitute and replace the egg wash with a splash of non-dairy milk for that golden finish. They’ll be just as delicious, showcasing the same fluffy, tender crumb.
What to Serve with Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones?
As you enjoy the warm, buttery delight of these scones, consider these perfect pairings to create a memorable meal.
- Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Drizzle this over your scones for an added layer of flavor that complements the herbs beautifully.
- Savory Vegetable Soup: A bowl of hearty soup, like tomato basil or minestrone, pairs perfectly, creating a satisfying and balanced meal.
- Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette bring a bright, crisp contrast to the fluffy texture of the scones.
- Cheese Platter: Serve alongside a selection of your favorite cheeses; a creamy brie or sharp cheddar enhances the scone’s flavors deliciously.
- Quiche: A slice of savory quiche adds protein and pairs well with the scone, making for a delightful brunch option.
- Cranberry Chutney: The tangy sweetness elevates the scones to another level, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of contrast.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: These refreshing beverages are ideal companions, cleansing the palate and balancing the scone’s richness.
- Dark Chocolate Truffles: For a sweet ending, indulge in rich chocolate truffles that offer a luxurious finish to your meal.
Elevate your breakfast or brunch gathering by serving these delightful scones alongside these wonderful pairings!
Expert Tips for Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones
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Use Cold Ingredients: Start with chilled butter and ricotta for a lighter texture. Warm ingredients can lead to dense scones.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until combined. Overworking leads to tough scones, so gentle hands are key!
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Flour Your Surface: The dough will be sticky; keep extra flour on hand to dust your work surface for easier handling without compromising texture.
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Experiment with Herbs: Get creative! Different herbs or even spices like dill or oregano can elevate your Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones to new heights.
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Store Properly: Keep baked scones in an airtight container to maintain freshness. For longer shelf life, consider freezing them and reheating as needed.
Storage Tips for Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones
Room Temperature: Store the scones in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents them from drying out.
Fridge: For extended freshness, keep the scones sealed in the fridge for up to 1 week. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
Freezer: Freeze individual scones wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheating scones in the oven is recommended, allowing them to regain their flaky nature.
Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones Recipe FAQs
What type of flour is best for Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones?
All-purpose flour works beautifully as it provides the right structure. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, whole wheat pastry flour is an excellent substitute, adding a nutty flavor without sacrificing texture.
How should I store leftover scones?
Store your scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh. If you’d like them to last longer, they can be refrigerated for up to 1 week. Just remember to reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes before enjoying!
Can I freeze Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual scones tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time for perfectly fluffy results.
What if my scone dough is too wet?
If your dough feels too sticky, sprinkle some flour on your work surface and your hands while kneading. This will help with handling without overworking the dough, which keeps your scones tender. If it’s still too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until you reach the right consistency.
Are these scones suitable for those with allergies?
This recipe contains dairy (ricotta cheese, butter, milk), so it’s not suitable for those with dairy allergies. However, you can easily make it dairy-free by substituting with non-dairy milk (like almond or soy) and using vegan butter or coconut oil instead. Always double-check labels for specific dietary restrictions.
Can I use different herbs in this recipe?
The great thing about these Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones is their flexibility! Feel free to mix and match herbs according to your taste. For instance, swapping out fresh thyme for oregano or adding basil can provide a new flavor profile that’s just as delightful. Enjoy experimenting!
Irresistibly Fluffy Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones to Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Grate the chilled butter into the mix, stirring until the texture resembles coarse meal, about 1-2 minutes.
- Gently fold in the chopped scallions, fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary.
- Add the ricotta cheese and milk to the mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead gently 2 to 3 times just to bring it together. Pat the dough into a 9-inch rectangle, then cut it into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the scone pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and fragrant.
