Pin It Savory, tender scones with a spicy chili-garlic kick and a crunchy pretzel topping are perfect for snacking or serving alongside soups and salads.
The first time I made these, I wanted a snack with bold flavors and satisfying crunch. They quickly became my go-to for potlucks and cozy brunches at home.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g)
- Baking powder: 2 tsp
- Baking soda: ½ tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: ½ tsp
- Fresh chives (finely chopped): 2 tbsp
- Minced garlic: 1 tbsp (about 3 cloves)
- Fresh red chilies (finely chopped, seeds removed for less heat): 1–2
- Coarsely crushed pretzels: 1 cup (110 g), plus extra for topping
- Cold unsalted butter (cubed): 4 tbsp (60 g)
- Buttermilk: ¾ cup (180 ml), plus extra for brushing
- Large egg: 1
- Melted butter: 2 tbsp
- Sea salt flakes: to taste
- Extra crushed pretzels: for topping
Instructions
- Prepare Oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and black pepper.
- Cut in Butter:
- Add cold butter cubes and cut in with a pastry blender or fingertips until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Flavorings:
- Stir in chives, garlic, chilies, and 1 cup crushed pretzels.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg. Pour into dry ingredients and mix gently with a fork just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Drop Scones:
- Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop, drop 8 evenly sized mounds onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Prepare Topping:
- Brush tops with a little extra buttermilk. Sprinkle with extra crushed pretzels and sea salt flakes.
- Bake:
- Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add Final Touch:
- Remove from oven. Brush tops with melted butter while still warm. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Pin It My family loves gathering around the kitchen when the scones are baking—the aroma draws everyone in and the first warm scone is always eagerly claimed.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, pastry blender or fork, whisk, baking sheet, parchment paper, and pastry brush are all you need for this easy baking project.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), dairy, and eggs. Pretzel brands may contain traces of nuts or soy, so check packaging for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each scone has 220 calories, 9 g total fat, 29 g carbohydrates, and 5 g protein.
Pin It Enjoy these bold, crunchy scones fresh from the oven or save them for a satisfying snack later on.
Recipe FAQs
- → How spicy are these scones?
The level of heat depends on the amount and type of chili used; removing seeds reduces intensity.
- → Can I substitute chives with other herbs?
Green onions or fresh parsley work well if you prefer a different herbal note or don't have chives.
- → How to keep scones tender?
Work cold butter into flour gently and avoid overmixing dough to achieve a soft, flaky texture.
- → What’s the best way to reheat scones?
Warm scones in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about five minutes to refresh their aroma and texture.
- → Can I add cheese to these scones?
Absolutely—mixing in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese adds extra richness and flavor to the dough.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian; check pretzel packaging for any additional concerns or traces.