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Caramelized Onion & Gruyère Scones Recipe


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4.1 from 14 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Caramelized Onion & Gruyere Scones deliver a perfect balance of sweet, deeply caramelized onions and nutty Gruyere cheese nestled in a tender, flaky scone. The addition of fresh sage and flaky sea salt on top enhances the savory flavors, making them a delicious treat ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a savory snack. The scones are baked to golden perfection, offering a comforting and flavorful pastry experience.


Ingredients

Caramelized Onions

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 large yellow onions (about 4 cups), thinly sliced
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Scones

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (frozen, grated or cut into small chunks)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups pastry flour (can substitute all-purpose flour)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 8 ounces Gruyere cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup caramelized onions (cooled)
  • Heavy cream (for brushing)
  • Flaky sea salt (for sprinkling)


Instructions

  1. Prepare Caramelized Onions: Thinly slice the onions. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large pan over medium heat and add the onions with 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Cook slowly over low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 1 to 1 ½ hours until the onions are deep golden brown and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool completely before using.
  2. Chill and Prepare Butter: Place 1/2 cup unsalted butter in the freezer for at least 20-30 minutes. Once chilled, grate the butter using a box grater or cut into small chunks and keep it frozen or very cold until use.
  3. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1 large egg until well combined. Set aside.
  5. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups pastry flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 2 teaspoons sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt.
  6. Combine Ingredients: Add the frozen grated butter, shredded Gruyere cheese, cooled caramelized onions, and chopped fresh sage to the dry ingredients. Mix well to coat everything evenly with flour, ensuring the caramelized onions are separated and not clumped together.
  7. Form Dough: Slowly drizzle the wet cream and egg mixture into the dry mixture while combining. Stir until the dough just comes together, which will be slightly sticky. If the dough feels too dry, add additional cream one tablespoon at a time.
  8. Shape and Cut: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and gently press into an 8-inch round disc. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 equal triangles. Alternatively, you can place the dough in a metal scone pan.
  9. Prepare for Baking: Place the scones a few inches apart on the lined baking sheet. Lightly brush the tops with heavy cream and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
  10. Chill Scones: Refrigerate the scones for 15-20 minutes to firm up the dough before baking.
  11. Bake: Bake scones in the preheated 400°F oven for 18-24 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the scones are cooked through.
  12. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm with butter for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Caramelizing onions requires slow cooking over low heat and can be prepared a day ahead to save time.
  • Keeping the butter cold and grated helps create a flaky texture in the scones.
  • If the dough feels too dry, add heavy cream gradually to avoid overhydration.
  • Scones can be shaped into a disc and cut into triangles or formed in a scone pan depending on your preference.
  • Flaky sea salt sprinkled on top before baking adds a delightful crunch and enhances the savory flavor.
  • Serve scones warm for the best taste and texture.
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Category: Baking
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American