Cream Cheese Pretzel Drop Scones (Printable)
Soft, tangy scones meet a golden pretzel crust—perfect for breakfast bites or anytime snacking.
# What You Need:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
05 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
→ Wet Ingredients
06 - 4 ounces cream cheese, cold and cubed
07 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
08 - 2/3 cup whole milk
09 - 1 large egg
→ Topping & Pretzel Crust
10 - 1/3 cup water
11 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
12 - 1 egg yolk, beaten
13 - 2 tablespoons coarse pretzel salt or flaky sea salt
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, fine sea salt, and granulated sugar until fully incorporated.
03 - Add cold cream cheese and unsalted butter to the dry mixture. Cut in with a pastry cutter or fork until mixture forms pea-sized crumbs.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk and egg. Pour into the flour mixture and stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.
05 - Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop, portion 8 equal mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing well apart.
06 - In a small saucepan, bring 1/3 cup water to a boil. Stir in baking soda until dissolved. Brush the top and sides of each scone generously with this solution for a pretzel-style crust.
07 - Brush each scone with beaten egg yolk. Sprinkle generously with coarse pretzel salt or flaky sea salt.
08 - Bake for 14 to 16 minutes, or until scones are deep golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Satisfyingly chewy pretzel crust with a soft, tangy interior
- Easy mix-and-drop scones ideal for busy mornings or snacks
02 -
- For extra flavor, you can fold in chopped chives or cooked bacon before baking.
- Preparing the baking soda solution gives these scones an authentic pretzel-like crust.
03 -
- Use cold ingredients for the best flaky texture.
- Do not overmix once the wet ingredients are added—just stir until barely combined.