Cheddar Cheese Scones

These are the best scones I have ever eaten! Terrific served with soup.

• Ready In: 35 mins
• Yields: 12 scones

Ingredients

• 2 1⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2  tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 1⁄2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 cup  cold butter, cubed
• 1  cup  old cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1  cup buttermilk
• 1  egg, lightly beaten

Directions

1. In a large bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cayenne pepper and salt.
2. Using a pastry blender or two knives, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in the cheese.
4. Add the buttermilk all at once, stirring with a fork to make a soft, sticky dough.
5. With lightly floured hands, press the dough into a ball.
6. On a lightly floured surface, knead gently 10 times.
7. Pat out the dough into a 3/4-inch thick round.
8. Using a 2-1/2-inch floured cutter, cut out rounds.
9. Place on a ungreased baking sheet.
10. Gather up the scraps and repat dough once; cut out more rounds.
11. Brush the tops of the scones with egg.
12. Bake in a 425 degree F oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden.