Ricotta-Herb Savory Scones

Ricotta-herb savory scones are a delightful twist on traditional sweet scones, offering a flaky, tender texture with rich, cheesy undertones and aromatic herbs in every bite. These golden-brown pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sophisticated accompaniment to soups and salads. With creamy ricotta cheese folded into the dough and a generous handful of fresh herbs, these scones are both hearty and refreshing, providing a warm, savory flavor that satisfies without being heavy.

This recipe brings together the comforting qualities of baked goods with the fresh appeal of herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme. Whether you’re serving them alongside a cozy bowl of soup, offering them as a brunch table centerpiece, or enjoying them as a midday snack with tea, these savory scones are sure to elevate your culinary repertoire. Simple to make and highly adaptable, this dish is one you’ll come back to whenever you crave something rich yet balanced.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ricotta-herb savory scones offer a satisfying balance of texture and flavor. The ricotta cheese creates a soft, moist crumb that contrasts beautifully with the slightly crisp exterior. Meanwhile, the blend of fresh herbs gives the scones a fragrant, earthy profile that elevates the experience beyond a typical biscuit or bread.

These scones are easy to prepare and require no complicated techniques, making them ideal even for beginner bakers. They’re also endlessly customizable—you can switch up the herbs, add spices, or mix in extras like olives or sun-dried tomatoes. Whether served warm from the oven or at room temperature, they’re a versatile addition to any meal. Their elegant, rustic look and savory taste also make them perfect for gifting or entertaining.

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 22 minutes

• Total time: 37 minutes

• Yield: 8 scones

• Serving Size: 1 scone

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 260

• Carbohydrates: 28g

• Protein: 8g

• Fat: 13g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the scones:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter or plant-based margarine, cubed

• 3/4 cup ricotta cheese

• 1/3 cup milk or non-dairy milk

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)

Optional toppings:

• Additional herbs for garnish

• Shredded cheese for sprinkling

• Brush of milk on top for golden finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

2. Mix the dry ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

• Make sure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Cut in the butter

• Add cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture.

• Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter in until it resembles coarse crumbs.

• Be careful not to overmix—the small chunks of butter help create flakiness.

4. Add ricotta and herbs

• Stir in the ricotta cheese until loosely incorporated.

• Add the chopped herbs and gently fold into the dough.

• Slowly add the milk and stir just until the dough comes together.

• If needed, add an extra tablespoon of milk for moisture.

5. Shape the scones

• Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times.

• Pat it into a round disk about 1 inch thick.

• Cut into 8 equal wedges using a sharp knife or dough cutter.

6. Prepare for baking

• Transfer the scones to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

• Optionally, brush the tops with a little milk and sprinkle with additional herbs or shredded cheese.

7. Bake the scones

• Bake for 20–22 minutes until golden on top and firm to the touch.

• Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Ingredient Background

Ricotta cheese is a mild, creamy dairy product that adds moisture and tenderness to baked goods. Unlike harder cheeses, ricotta blends seamlessly into the dough without overpowering the other ingredients. It’s ideal for savory baking because it enriches the crumb without making the scones greasy.

Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme bring vibrant, garden-fresh flavor to the dish. Parsley adds a mild earthiness, chives offer a subtle onion note, and thyme brings a slightly floral, peppery essence. Together, they lift the flavor of the scones and create an aromatic, wholesome experience with every bite.

Technique Tips

For the best scones, work quickly with cold ingredients. Keep the butter and ricotta chilled until ready to use. When mixing the dough, avoid overworking it—this helps maintain a tender, flaky texture. Don’t be afraid to leave visible bits of butter in the dough, as they create steam pockets during baking, leading to light, airy layers.

If you’re new to shaping scones, use a round biscuit cutter instead of wedges. This can help with even baking and a more uniform appearance. Always let the scones rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors and structure to settle.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

You can present these scones in several ways to suit different occasions. For brunch, serve them warm in a linen-lined basket with herb butter on the side. For a rustic tea party, stack them on a tiered tray with small ramekins of olive oil, hummus, or soft cheese.

If you’re serving these at a dinner table, slice the scones in half and fill them with roasted vegetables or thinly sliced grilled chicken for a savory mini sandwich. For a refined event, cut the dough into small rounds and bake mini scones for a bite-sized, elegant presentation.

Additional Tips for Success

Always chill the dough for 10 minutes before baking if your kitchen is warm—this helps the scones rise better and hold their shape. Try using a light touch when mixing to avoid compressing the dough. Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow even browning on the bottom.

For extra depth of flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the dough. You can also substitute part of the milk with plain yogurt or kefir for a tangier, richer scone. Grating a small amount of lemon zest into the dough is another way to brighten the flavors.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is easily adaptable. Swap herbs based on your preferences or what you have on hand—dill, rosemary, or sage also work well. Add-ins like sun-dried tomatoes, black olives, or caramelized onions bring additional flavor layers.

For a cheesier scone, mix in shredded cheddar, parmesan, or feta. You can also experiment with spice blends such as za’atar, herbes de Provence, or Italian seasoning for a unique flavor twist. To make a heartier version, add sautéed spinach or finely chopped roasted vegetables.

Freezing and Storage

Ricotta-herb scones can be made ahead and stored with ease. Keep baked scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or warm skillet before serving for the best texture.

You can also freeze the scones, either baked or unbaked. Freeze baked scones in freezer-safe bags and reheat straight from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. If freezing unbaked dough, cut and place the wedges on a tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to bags. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Healthier Twist Ideas

To make a lighter version, reduce the butter slightly and replace part of the flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. Use low-fat ricotta cheese or a plant-based ricotta substitute to reduce fat while keeping the creamy texture.

You can also cut down on sodium by using unsalted butter and reducing added salt. Enhance nutrition by adding finely chopped spinach, kale, or grated zucchini to the dough. For a dairy-free option, substitute both butter and ricotta with plant-based alternatives.

Serving Suggestions for Events

These savory scones are a wonderful addition to breakfast buffets, brunch tables, or picnic baskets. Serve them with soups like tomato basil, lentil, or mushroom for a cozy, balanced meal. They also pair beautifully with egg dishes like omelets or shakshuka.

For gatherings, offer a scone board with various spreads—herb cream cheese, garlic hummus, or roasted pepper dip. You can also include them in a sandwich platter by slicing and filling them with thin-cut grilled meat, pickled vegetables, or spiced tofu.

Special Equipment

• Mixing bowls

• Pastry cutter or fork

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Baking sheet

• Parchment paper

• Sharp knife or biscuit cutter

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

• Yes, but reduce the quantity by half, as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.

2. Can I use whole wheat flour?

• You can replace up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. More than that may make the scones denser.

3. Why are my scones not fluffy?

• Overmixing or using warm ingredients can make scones dense. Keep everything cold and handle the dough gently.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

• Yes, prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze shaped scones before baking.

5. What type of ricotta works best?

• Full-fat ricotta provides the best texture, but low-fat or plant-based ricotta alternatives can also be used successfully.

6. Can I make mini scones?

• Yes, use a smaller cutter or cut smaller wedges. Reduce baking time by about 5 minutes.

7. Do these scones go well with soup?

• Absolutely. Their savory flavor and flaky texture make them a perfect side to creamy or broth-based soups.

8. How can I reheat them without drying out?

• Wrap in foil and warm in a low oven or place in a skillet over low heat with a lid to gently steam.

Conclusion

Ricotta-herb savory scones are a delightful way to bring comfort and sophistication to any table. With their buttery, fluffy interior, aromatic herbs, and subtle cheesy richness, they offer a perfect alternative to traditional bread or biscuits. These scones are simple to prepare, endlessly customizable, and versatile enough to complement a variety of meals or stand proudly on their own.

Whether you’re baking for brunch, preparing a cozy side for soup, or simply treating yourself to something warm and flavorful, these scones are sure to please. Their elegant appearance and satisfying flavor make them a go-to recipe that combines rustic charm with refined taste, making them a favorite for both casual meals and special occasions.

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