TWD: Apple Cheddar Scones

I was so excited when Dorie's book finally arrived so I could participate in my first TWD baking event. To be honest, I wasn't overly excited about this recipe because I've never really liked scones. I was even tempted to make only half the recipe in case nobody would eat them, but decided to just stick to the original. My experiences with them have usually been tough, hard and a little crumbly. These on the other hand were really tender and soft! I really liked the addition of cornmeal because it added just enough crunch without being rough. I wasn't too sure about the apple + cheddar combination so I made half the batch with apples only and the second batch with apple + cheese. Next time I make these, I think I'll load them up with more dried apples + cheese and maybe 1/2 tsp more salt. Sweet and salty is quite the delicious combination!

The dough was so sticky I wasn't exactly sure how to knead it, but it all came together nicely after a very generous dusting. There was actually a little sticking so I used the edge of my Chinese rectangular knife to scrap the dough off the counter. I must get myself a pastry scraper, those food network chefs make it look so much fun whenever they're scrapping away at their counter. Anway, after 10 minutes in the oven, there was significant browning on the bottom and pale tops. There was also some smoke coming out (my fault for using old parchment) so I finished the rest of the baking at 350. Next time I'm going to use my insulated cookie sheets, since those always manage to leave my chocolate chip cookies nice and pale.. haha. Overall, making scones was kind of fun because of its simplicity and of course, all the squishing of butter into flour with your fingers. Luckily I didn't freeze any because the scones disappeared quicker than I expected.



Thanks to Karina of The Floured Apron for choosing this recipe, which can be found in Dorie Greenspan's Baking: From my Home to Yours. Don't forget to checkout the TWD Blogroll!

By the way, the devil's food white-out cake was such a hit that I was asked to make another one for a birthday party. I love Dorie's recipes!!