Bacon, Cheddar and Chives Scones

Bacon, Cheddar and Chives Scones

2 cups all-purpose flour 
1 tablespoon baking powder 
1/2 teaspoon salt 
1/2 cup cold butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes 
1 cup whipping cream, divided
3/4 cup (3 oz.) shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped cooked bacon
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Wax paper
Preparation
1. Preheat oven to 450°. Stir together first 3 ingredients in a large bowl. Cut butter into flour mixture with a pastry blender until crumbly and mixture resembles small peas. Freeze 5 minutes. Add 3/4 cup plus 2 Tbsp. cream, cheese, bacon, chives, and pepper, stirring just until dry ingredients are moistened.

2. Turn dough out onto wax paper; gently press or pat dough into a 7-inch round (mixture will be crumbly). Cut round into 8 wedges. Place wedges 2 inches apart on a lightly greased baking sheet. Brush tops of wedges with remaining 2 Tbsp. cream just until moistened.

3. Bake at 450° for 13 to 15 minutes or until golden.