Title: How to Make Delicious Cheese and Herb Scones – A Savory Delight

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Mix the dry ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, dried thyme, and garlic powder (if using). Stir well to combine the dry ingredients.

3. Cut in the butter:
   Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with small pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.

4. Add the cheese and milk:
   Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese (or other cheese of your choice). Make a well in the center of the mixture and pour in the milk. Use a spoon or your hands to mix until the dough just comes together—be careful not to overwork it, as that can make the scones tough.

5. Shape the dough:
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it forms a smooth ball. Pat the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick. You can either cut the dough into wedges like a traditional scone or use a round cutter to make individual scones.

6. Bake the scones:
   Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. If you’d like a golden finish, brush the tops with a little milk or a beaten egg.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top and firm to the touch.

7. Serve:
   Remove the scones from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. These are best served warm, with a dollop of butter or cream cheese, or enjoyed alongside your favorite soup.

Serving and Storage Tips:

• Serve fresh: These cheese and herb scones are best served warm from the oven. They pair beautifully with soup, salad, or as a savory snack.
• Storage: Leftover scones can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a warm oven for a few minutes to bring back their crispiness.

Variants:

1. Spicy Version: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dough for a spicy kick.
2. Different Cheeses: You can use other cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
3. Add-ins: Add chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, chives, or parsley for extra flavor, or include some crispy bacon bits or sun-dried tomatoes for a heartier scone.

FAQ:

1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes! You can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend if desired. Just note that the texture may vary slightly, and the scones may not rise as much with whole wheat flour.

2. How do I make these scones dairy-free?
To make these scones dairy-free, use a dairy-free butter substitute and non-dairy milk like almond milk or oat milk. Use a dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese for a simple herb scone.

3. Can I freeze these scones?
Yes! You can freeze unbaked scones. Just place them on a baking sheet in the freezer, and once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. To bake, just pop them in the oven directly from the freezer and add an extra few minutes to the baking time.