Savory Zucchini & Feta Scones

Savor the delightful combination of tender zucchini and tangy feta cheese wrapped in a flaky, buttery scone. These Savory Zucchini & Feta Scones are the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. Packed with fresh herbs and a hint of black pepper, they offer a mouthwatering balance of flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re new to baking scones or looking to add a fresh twist to your repertoire, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Plus, if you love zucchini in your baked goods, you might also enjoy other creative options like Frittata Muffin Cups Zucchini Feta for a protein-packed alternative.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

These Savory Zucchini & Feta Scones stand out because they combine the moistness of fresh zucchini with the salty creaminess of feta cheese, all encased in a perfectly crumbly texture. Unlike sweet scones, the savory profile makes them versatile enough for any time of day. The addition of fresh dill or parsley brightens up each bite, providing herbal freshness that complements the richness of the butter and feta. This recipe is simple yet impressive, using everyday ingredients you likely have on hand. It’s an excellent way to sneak some veggies into your diet, especially for kids or picky eaters who might shy away from zucchini in other forms. The scones bake up golden brown with a tender crumb inside—ideal for pairing with soups, salads, or simply enjoying with a pat of butter.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 cup grated zucchini, excess moisture squeezed out
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill or parsley
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup milk

How To Make Savory Zucchini & Feta Scones

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Start by grating the zucchini finely. To avoid soggy scones, place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your scones.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these together to ensure the leavening agents and seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter remaining. This step creates the flaky texture that scones are known for.

Step 4: Add Zucchini, Feta, and Herbs

Gently fold in the grated zucchini, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh dill or parsley. Stir just until combined, being careful not to overmix, which could result in dense scones.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the large egg and milk until well blended.

Step 6: Form the Dough

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix gently until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it’s manageable.

Step 7: Shape and Cut the Scones

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a 7-inch round disk about 1 inch thick. Using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, cut the disk into 8 equal wedges.

Step 8: Bake

Place the wedges on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. For an extra golden finish, brush the tops lightly with milk. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow the scones to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Expert Tips

• Drain the zucchini thoroughly: Excess moisture is the enemy of flaky scones. Press or squeeze the grated zucchini well to avoid sogginess.
• Keep butter cold: Cold butter creates steam pockets during baking, which results in a tender, flaky texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing too much develops gluten and leads to tough scones. Mix just until ingredients come together.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh dill or parsley adds brightness and flavor; dried herbs won’t provide the same freshness.
• Customize the cheese: While feta is traditional here, you can mix in other crumbly cheeses for variation, just ensure they melt well.
• Try chilling the dough: For even flakier scones, chill the dough for 20-30 minutes before shaping.
• Serve with complementary dishes: These scones pair wonderfully with salads, soups, or even a simple spread of cream cheese.

Variations and Customizations

• Cheese swaps: Replace feta with goat cheese or ricotta salata for a different tangy profile.
• Herb blends: Mix fresh thyme, chives, or basil with or instead of dill or parsley to change the flavor profile.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño to the dough for a subtle heat.
• Nutty twist: Fold in toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra texture and flavor.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, keeping an eye on dough consistency.
• Vegan adaptation: Use a plant-based butter alternative, substitute egg with flaxseed meal, and swap milk for almond or oat milk.
• Make it a muffin: For a handheld snack, try turning this batter into muffins for a softer, more cake-like texture similar to Savory Cheddar Bacon Zucchini Muffins.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Savory Zucchini & Feta Scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to extend their shelf life, place them in the refrigerator where they will keep well for about 5 days. Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore some crispness. For longer storage, freeze the scones by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven. This makes for a quick and satisfying snack anytime.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

Absolutely! While feta adds a distinct tang and crumbly texture, you can substitute it with goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even a sharp cheddar. Just keep the quantity the same and choose a cheese that complements zucchini well.

How do I prevent the scones from being dry?

The key is not to overbake and to make sure the zucchini is well drained but still adds moisture. Using cold butter and not overmixing the dough also helps maintain a tender crumb.

Can I make these scones ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This can even enhance the flavor and texture. Alternatively, bake the scones and freeze them for later use.

Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?

Fresh herbs like dill or parsley brighten the flavor beautifully, but if you only have dried herbs, use about one-third the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Fresh herbs are recommended for the best taste.

Conclusion

These Savory Zucchini & Feta Scones are a delightful way to bring fresh, vibrant flavors to your table with minimal effort. Their tender crumb, combined with the savory punch of feta and the freshness of herbs, makes them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them warm with a cup of tea or as part of a savory brunch spread, this recipe is a reliable favorite that you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try and experience how simple ingredients can come together to create such a comforting and delicious treat.

Share on Pinterest