Bacon and Cheese Scones

Instructions

1. Step
   Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Step
   Add the cold diced butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingers, a pastry cutter, or a fork, work the butter into the flour until the mixture looks crumbly, with pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.
4. Step
   Add the grated cheddar cheese and cooked crumbled bacon. Toss until evenly distributed.
5. Step
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and half-and-half cream. Pour into the flour mixture and gently mix until the dough just comes together.
6. Step
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently 8–10 times, then pat or roll into a rectangle about 1 inch thick.
7. Step
   Cut the dough into 8–10 scones.
8. Step
   Transfer the scones to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with additional cream.
9. Step
   Bake for 16–20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the centers are baked through. Let cool slightly before serving.