Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cayenne pepper and salt.
  2. Using a pastry blender or two knives, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Stir in the cheese.
  4. Add the buttermilk all at once, stirring with a fork to make a soft, sticky dough.
  5. With lightly floured hands, press the dough into a ball.
  6. On a lightly floured surface, knead gently 10 times.
  7. Pat out the dough into a 3/4-inch thick round.
  8. Using a 2-1/2-inch floured cutter, cut out rounds.
  9. Place on a ungreased baking sheet.
  10. Gather up the scraps and repat dough once; cut out more rounds.
  11. Brush the tops of the scones with egg.
  12. Bake in a 425 degree F oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden.