So that's what they mean by a 'snow day'

Yes that's right, I'm one of those shameless teachers who's been off school for the past two days. In my defense I was told that school was closed as I was getting ready to set off so... y'know, I tried.

Anyway, what better way to spend the day than bake?


Makes 6 - 9 scones

225g self raising flour
1/2 tsp salt
55g unsalted butter
115g grated Cheddar cheese
150ml milk
1/4 tsp dry English mustard
pinch cayenne pepper
1 egg, beaten

1. Heat the oven to 220 C / 425 F / gas mark 7. Flour a baking sheet.
2. Sift the flour with the salt into a large bowl. Rub the butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add the Cheddar cheese, cayenne pepper and dry English mustard, mixing all together.
3. Make a deep well in the flour, pour in the milk and mix into a soft, spongy dough with a knife.
4. On a floured surface, knead the dough very lightly until it is just smooth. Roll or press out to about 2.5cm / 1 inch thick and stamp into rounds with a small pastry cutter. Gather the scraps together and cut into more scones.
5. Brush the scones with beaten egg for a glossy crust.
6. Bake the scones at the top of the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until well risen and brown.

Spread with butter and eat as soon as humanly possible without burning your mouth!