Classic cheese scones

• self-raising flour↗225g g

  plus extra for dusting

• salt↗pinch of
• cayenne pepper↗pinch of
• baking powder↗1 tsp tsp
• cold butter55g g

  cut into cubes

• aged cheddar↗120g g

  grated

• milk↗90-100ml ml

  plus 1 tbsp for glazing

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C with convection/gas 6, placing a large tray inside. Sift the flour, salt, cayenne pepper and baking powder into a bowl, then sift again to ensure the ingredients are well combined.

2. 2

   Add the butter to the bowl and rub it in with your fingers to create crumbs. Sprinkle 100 g of cheese into the crumb mixture and stir until evenly distributed. Try not to mix for too long, as the heat of your hands can melt the butter.

3. 3

   Make a well in the centre of the mixture and pour in enough milk to form a dough that is soft but firm. Do not add all the milk at once, as you may not need it all to achieve the right consistency.

4. 4

   Lightly dust the surface with flour and roll out the dough to about 2 cm thickness. Cut the scones with a medium (about 8 cm) cutter, then place them on parchment, brush with a little milk and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Transfer to the hot tray.

5. 5

   Bake in the oven for 15‑20 minutes, or until they are golden‑brown and done.