White Cheddar Apple Scones with Maple Butter

Directions

Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Makes: 10 – 12

• Preheat oven to 415°F.
• In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder and salt. Add fridge-cold lard and use a pastry cutter or fork to cut it into the dry ingredients until you have small pea-sized crumbs.
• Peel and grate apple using a box grater. Squeeze out any extra juice from the apple before measuring it. Mix apple and 1 cup of cheese into flour mixture.
• In a small bowl, whisk together wet ingredients and add to dry. Mix with hands or spoon until the dough comes together, making sure not to overwork it.
• Place dough on a lightly floured work surface and roll out to about ¼-inch thick. Fold it in half, and then fold it again, so you have one sheet about 1-inch thick. This will help with getting flaky layers.
• Cut into your preferred size scones and place on a parchment-lined baking tray. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top of the scones. Bake for 15 minutes.
• Whip softened butter in a bowl until it is smooth. Add maple syrup and whisk. Slightly chill and serve with scones.