Olive and Cheese Scone Tray Bake

A savory twist on classic scones, this fluffy and cheesy tray bake is packed with black olives and sharp cheddar, baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for sharing, making it a great addition to brunch, picnics, or afternoon tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – No need to shape individual scones—just press the dough into a tray and bake.
• Fluffy and Flavorful – The combination of cheddar, black olives, and thyme creates a deliciously savory treat.
• Perfect for Sharing – Great for slicing into squares and serving at gatherings.
• Versatile Pairing – Enjoy it on its own or serve with soups, salads, or spreads.
• Customizable – Swap out the cheese or add your favorite herbs for a personalized touch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 ¼ cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup black olives, chopped
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg

Directions

Prepare the Dough:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
3. Add the cold, cubed butter and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingertips until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
4. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and chopped black olives.

Incorporate Wet Ingredients:

5. In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and egg.
6. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the flour mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.

Bake the Scone Tray:

7. Transfer the dough onto the prepared baking tray and gently pat it down evenly.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.

Cool and Serve:

9. Allow the tray bake to cool slightly before cutting into squares.
10. Serve warm with butter or enjoy as a side to soups and salads.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 12 squares
• Calories: 280 kcal per serving

Variations

• Herb-Infused Version – Swap thyme for rosemary, oregano, or chives for a different flavor.
• Cheese Substitutions – Try using crumbled feta, gouda, or Parmesan instead of cheddar.
• Spicy Twist – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
• Nutty Addition – Mix in some chopped walnuts or almonds for added crunch.
• Whole Wheat Option – Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.

Storage and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

What makes this a tray bake instead of traditional scones?

Instead of cutting and shaping individual scones, this dough is baked as a whole in a tray and then sliced into squares.

Can I make this recipe without olives?

Yes, you can leave out the olives or replace them with sun-dried tomatoes or caramelized onions for a different flavor.

Do I have to use sharp cheddar cheese?

No, you can substitute it with mild cheddar, feta, or even blue cheese for a stronger taste.

Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but omit the baking powder and reduce the salt slightly.

Why is my scone tray bake too dense?

Make sure not to overwork the dough, as this can make the texture too heavy. Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh for proper rising.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the dough, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I serve with this scone tray bake?

It pairs well with soups, salads, scrambled eggs, or a spread of butter and cream cheese.

How do I prevent my scones from being too dry?

Avoid overbaking and measure ingredients carefully. You can also brush the top with a little milk before baking for a softer crust.

Can I make this into individual scones instead of a tray bake?

Yes, cut the dough into rounds or triangles and bake at the same temperature for about 12-15 minutes.

Can I make a gluten-free version?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

Conclusion

This Olive and Cheese Scone Tray Bake is a savory, cheesy delight that’s incredibly easy to make. With its light, fluffy texture and rich flavors, it’s perfect for sharing and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Whether served warm with butter or as a side to soups and salads, this tray bake is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!