NOW TRY BAKING YOUR OWN CHEESE SCONES

THE National Trust’s famous meltin-your-mouth cheese scones are a perfect addition to a homemade soup or stew. Alternatively, they’re great on their own with a slather of butter for a quick savoury treat.

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes Serves: 8

INGREDIENTS

450g (16oz) self-raising flour

110g (4oz) margarine

100g (3.5oz) grated mature cheddar cheese

1tsp salt

1tsp cracked black pepper One egg

150ml (5fl oz) milk

1tsp English mustard

METHOD

● Preheat the oven to 180°C.

● Place the flour and margarine in mixing bowl and rub together with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.

● Stir in most of the cheese (leave enough to place some on top of the scones later), salt and pepper.

● Mix the egg with three quarters of the milk and the mustard. Pour into the mix and use a spoon to combine the wet and dry ingredients. Keep adding the remaining milk a little at a time until the mixture comes together and forms a dough.

● Divide into two even-sized pieces and gently roll into large balls on a lightly floured surface. Flatten them lightly and cut into four by slicing both ways across the middle. Place on your lined baking tray.

● Divide the remaining cheese and place on the top of the scone. Put into the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until risen and golden.