There’s a satisfying thrill that comes from biting into a freshly baked scone, especially when it’s a warm, savory Jalapeno Bacon Scone. Just imagine the aroma of sizzling bacon mingling with the sharp notes of cheddar cheese and the playful kick of jalapenos wafting through your kitchen; it’s enough to make anyone’s mouth water! I discovered this delightful combination on a lazy Sunday morning, and since then, it has become my go-to recipe for turning a simple meal into an extraordinary experience.
Perfect for breakfast, or as a hearty side to accompany a steaming bowl of chili, these scones are not just easy to whip up but also versatile. With every flaky, buttery bite, they deliver a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor that makes them a sure hit at any meal. So whether you’re tired of the same old fast food routine or just looking to spice up your weekend brunch plans, dive into this incredible recipe that will have you (and your loved ones) coming back for more!
Why Are Jalapeno Bacon Scones So Irresistible?
Savory Delight: Imagine starting your day with a warm, buttery scone bursting with smoky bacon and tangy cheddar.
Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal baking skills and ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a snack, these scones adapt beautifully to any occasion.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a family brunch or a cozy get-together, these scones are sure to impress and disappear quickly.
Unique Flavors: The combination of jalapenos, cheese, and bacon creates a flavor sensation that lifts your spirits.
Make Ahead: Enjoy them fresh, or whip up a batch to store for later; they freeze beautifully and are a quick reheat!
If you are eager to explore more exciting flavors, check out our other unique recipes to ignite your cooking inspiration!
Jalapeno Bacon Scones Ingredients
For the Scone Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – The base of the scone; whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier twist.
- Baking Powder – Essential for that perfect rise; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds a warm depth to the scone; adjust based on your spice preference.
- Salt – Enhances the flavors, balancing the richness of bacon and cheese.
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and flakiness; use very cold, cubed butter for optimal texture.
- Buttermilk – Hydrates and tenderizes the dough; can be substituted with milk mixed with vinegar for acidity.
- Egg – Binds the mixture and adds richness; a flax egg can be used for a vegan option.
- Water – Helps create an egg wash; substitute with milk for a richer finish.
For the Flavor Pack
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Offers sharp, savory notes; substitute with pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Green Onions – Contributes a mild, fresh onion flavor; chives can be used for a gentler taste.
- Bacon – Adds smoky richness; turkey bacon can be used for a leaner option.
- Jalapeno Peppers – Delivers a spicy punch; adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.
These Jalapeno Bacon Scones are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of flavor that your taste buds won’t want to miss!
How to Make Jalapeno Bacon Scones
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This step sets the perfect stage for baking!
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Combine the dry ingredients in a stand mixer: add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, freshly ground black pepper, and salt. Mix until well blended to form the scone base.
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Add the cold, cubed butter gradually to the flour mixture, combining until it resembles a crumbly texture with no large butter chunks remaining. Cold butter is key for flakiness!
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Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese gently until just combined, allowing those cheesy flavors to mingle without overmixing.
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Fold in the green onions, crumbled bacon, diced jalapenos, and buttermilk. Mix until just incorporated; be cautious not to overwork the dough for tender scones.
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Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and flatten it into a circle about ½-inch thick. Cut it into 8 wedges for perfect scone portions.
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Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet, brush the tops with a mixture of beaten egg and water, and top each with a slice of jalapeno for an extra kick!
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Bake in the oven for 20-24 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top. Enjoy the heavenly aroma filling your kitchen as they bake!
Optional: Serve warm with a dollop of cream cheese for extra indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Jalapeno Bacon Scones are an excellent choice for busy home cooks who want to delight their families without the morning rush! You can prepare the scone dough up to 24 hours in advance by combining the dry ingredients and cutting in the cold butter, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can mix in the bacon and cheese, keeping those flavors intact. To finish, simply fold in the wet ingredients right before baking for just as fresh-tasting results. If you’re looking to save even more time, you can bake the scones and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, just reheat in the oven for a few minutes, ensuring they’re warm and flaky!
What to Serve with Jalapeno Bacon Scones?
Enhance your dining experience with delicious accompaniments that perfectly complement the savory and zesty flavors of these scrumptious scones.
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Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the scones while adding a refreshing crunch.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: Pairing with a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup creates a comforting blend; the acidity cuts through the richness beautifully.
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Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs not only provide a protein boost but also make for a delightful brunch spread alongside the scones.
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Spicy Chili: A hearty bowl of chili enhances the savory qualities of the scones, with the heat from the chili echoing the jalapenos and providing a filling meal.
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Avocado Spread: A simple avocado spread elevates the scones with its creamy texture and rich flavor; add a sprinkle of lime juice for brightness.
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Craft Beer: Pair with a crisp lager or a bold IPA to enhance the flavors; the bitterness of the beer contrasts beautifully with the scone’s savory elements.
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Mango Salsa: The sweetness of fresh mango salsa brings a vibrant contrast to the spicy jalapenos, making every bite an exciting culinary adventure.
Jalapeno Bacon Scones Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these delicious scones to suit your taste!
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Spicy Twist: Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra zing, perfect for heat lovers.
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Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh dill or parsley to the dough for a burst of herbal freshness that brightens the flavor beautifully.
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Veggie Boost: Consider including diced bell peppers or corn for a sweet crunch that complements the savory scone.
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Vegan Version: Swap the buttermilk for a plant-based milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar, and use a flax egg instead of regular egg for a vegan-friendly scone.
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Lower Fat: Replace the bacon with turkey bacon or smoked tempeh for a lighter option that still delivers that savory bite.
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Mild Heat: Turn down the spice by using roasted jalapenos. This method gives a subtle flavor without overwhelming heat.
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Cheesy Delight: Mix in additional cream cheese chunks for a rich, creamy texture that melts into the scones while baking.
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Tropical Flavor: Add some chopped pineapple or shredded coconut for a unique twist that brings a hint of sweetness to balance the savory ingredients.
How to Store and Freeze Jalapeno Bacon Scones
Room Temperature: Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer to keep them longer, you can refrigerate the scones in an airtight container for up to 5 days, but note that they may lose some of their original texture.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked scones by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 2 months. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: To bring back their flaky texture, reheat baked scones in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, until warmed through; this will make your Jalapeno Bacon Scones delightfully fresh again!
Expert Tips for Jalapeno Bacon Scones
- Keep It Cold: Use very cold butter and buttermilk for a flaky texture; room temperature ingredients can lead to dense scones.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid tough scones; dough should still be slightly shaggy when you form the wedges.
- Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for maximum rise; expired baking powder can lead to flat scones.
- Adjust the Heat: Modify the amount of jalapenos according to your spice preference; you can also roast them for a milder flavor.
- Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the scones while baking; ovens can vary, and you want a golden-brown top without overbaking.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover Jalapeno Bacon Scones in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or freeze them for longer-term enjoyment.
Jalapeno Bacon Scones Recipe FAQs
What kind of jalapenos should I use?
I recommend using fresh jalapenos for their vibrant flavor and crunch. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can opt for roasted jalapenos, as they tend to have a milder heat. Always taste a small piece before adding to ensure they meet your heat preference!
How should I store leftover Jalapeno Bacon Scones?
Store your leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, transfer them to the fridge where they can last up to 5 days, though this may slightly alter their texture.
Can I freeze Jalapeno Bacon Scones?
Absolutely! I often freeze unbaked scones by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, or placing in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven from frozen but add an additional few minutes to the baking time.
How can I adjust the recipe for dietary allergies?
For those with dairy allergies, substitute the unsalted butter with margarine or a vegan butter alternative, and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg. Make sure your cheese is dairy-free as well. If you’re gluten-free, a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour could work as an alternative to all-purpose flour.
What if my scones turn out dense?
If your scones are dense, it’s likely due to overmixing the dough. When combining ingredients, use a gentle folding motion and stop mixing as soon as everything is just incorporated. This helps to keep them light and fluffy rather than tough and dense.
How long can I keep Jalapeno Bacon Scones?
You can enjoy these scones fresh for about 2 days at room temperature, up to 5 days in the fridge for slight flavor loss, or freeze them for up to 2 months for longer storage. Reheat baked scones in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to refresh their texture, making them taste freshly baked again!
Savory Jalapeno Bacon Scones for Flavor-Packed Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine the dry ingredients in a stand mixer: add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, freshly ground black pepper, and salt. Mix until well blended.
- Add the cold, cubed butter gradually to the flour mixture, combining until it resembles a crumbly texture.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese gently until just combined.
- Fold in the green onions, crumbled bacon, diced jalapenos, and buttermilk until just incorporated.
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and flatten it into a circle about ½-inch thick.
- Cut the dough into 8 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with a mixture of beaten egg and water, and top each with a slice of jalapeno.
- Bake in the oven for 20-24 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top.