APPLE-SMOKED BACON AND CHEDDAR SCONES

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 400°F.
• Using a mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine flour, baking powder, salt and pepper in a large bowl on low speed.
• With the mixer running, gradually add the cubes of butter until the mixture is crumbly and studded with flour-butter bits about the size of small peas.
• Add the grated cheese; mix just until blended.
• ~~(Or, in a large bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, salt and pepper. Gradually cut butter in with a pastry blender or two knives until the mixture resembles small peas. Stir in cheese).
• Add the green onions, bacon and 3/4 cup buttermilk to the flour and cheese mixture.
• Mix by hand just until the ingredients are incorporated.
• If the dough is too dry to hold together,use the remaining buttermilk,adding one tablespoon at a time, until dough is pliable and can be formed into a ball.
• Stir as lightly and as little as possible to ensure a light-textured scone.
• Remove dough from bowl and place on a lightly floured flat surface.
• Pat the dough into a ball.
• Using a well-floured rolling pin, flatten the dough into a circle about 8 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick.
• Cut the dough into 8 to 10 wedges, depending on the size scone you prefer.
• Whisk the egg and water in a small mixing bowl.
• Brush each wedge with the egg wash.
• Place scones on an ungreased baking sheet; bake 18-20 minutes,or until golden brown and no longer sticky in the middle.
• Serve warm.