Ministry of Food Cheese Scones: A Delicious Recipe with History

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ministry of food cheese scones
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Sometimes words aren’t enough to express emotions—whether you’re apologizing for cutting the wrong tree, saying “oops” to a friend, or thanking a colleague for their help.

These cheese scones from Wellington’s Ministry of Food Cafe can bridge those emotional gaps with their delicious and heartfelt charm.

This cherished recipe has won the hearts of locals and visitors alike, thanks to its rich flavor and foolproof preparation method. It’s been a go-to treat for mending fences and showing appreciation.

Let’s dive into the history, tips, and step-by-step guide to making these irresistible cheese scones at home, so you can share them as a gesture of goodwill or simply enjoy them yourself.

The Story Behind Ministry of Food Cheese Scones

This recipe hails from the Ministry of Food Cafe, located near New Zealand’s Parliament buildings in Wellington. Popularized by the award-winning Ministry of Food Catering Company, these scones became a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Brenda Jessup, a key figure at the cafe, attributes this cherished recipe to her mother, Beth, who originally made these scones on camping holidays using a camp oven.

Tips for Perfect Cheese Scones

Making great scones isn’t just about following the recipe—it’s about technique. Here are some tried-and-true tips:

  1. Preheat Everything: Ensure your oven is fully heated to 220°C and preheat the tray as well. A hot tray helps the scones rise quickly.
  2. Wet Mixture: Add all the milk at once. The dough should be wet, not dry.
  3. Quick Mixing: Use a slicing action with a knife to mix the dough quickly, just until it comes together. Avoid overmixing.
  4. Handle with Care: Touch the dough as little as possible and get it into the oven immediately after mixing.
  5. Cheese Matters: Opt for a strong, tasty cheddar for the best flavor.
ministry of food cheese scones

Ministry of Food Cheese Scone Recipe

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Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 cups grated tasty cheese
  • 1 cup full-cream milk

Instructions
 

  • Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 220°C and place a tray inside to heat.
  • Mix Dry Ingredients: Sift flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and cayenne pepper into a bowl. Mix in the grated cheese
  • Add Milk: Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the milk. Mix quickly with a knife.
  • Shape Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a rectangle about 3 cm thick. Cut into 8 pieces.
  • Bake: Place the scones on the hot, floured tray and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
  • Serve and Store: Serve warm or freeze any leftovers. To reheat, pop them in the oven for about 5 minutes.

Why These Scones Are Special

The Ministry of Food cheese scones are more than just a snack. They’re a versatile treat that can smooth over mishaps, brighten someone’s day, or simply satisfy a craving. With a rich history and a foolproof recipe, they’ve become a staple for food lovers in New Zealand.

Visit the Ministry of Food Cafe

If you’re ever in Wellington, stop by the Ministry of Food Cafe at 34 Bowen Street to experience these scones firsthand. Alternatively, try this recipe at home and bring a taste of Wellington to your kitchen.