Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, sift the self-raising flour. Then using your fingertips, rub the diced cold butter into the flour until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. This step ensures that the butter is evenly distributed and helps to create a light and flaky texture in your scones.
Add the grated cheddar cheeses and spices. Mix everything together until well combined.
Finely dice the chives and parsley and add to the scone mix.
Season with salt and pepper.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vanilla and egg until well combined.
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients mixture and pour in the milk and egg mixture. Use a knife and washing machine technique to gently mix the ingredients together until they come together to form a soft dough.
Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough scones.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a circle about 2cm thick.
The height of the dough needs to be just above the middle of the cutter.
Use a medium cutter to cut out scones from the dough. Avoid twisting the cutter, as this can affect the rise of the scones. Instead, press straight down and lift the cutter up.
Place the scones onto the prepared baking tray, leaving a little space between each one.
Brush the tops of the scones with a little milk or beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake the scones in the preheated oven on the middle shelf for 20-25 minutes, or until they are risen and golden brown.
Once baked, transfer the scones to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.
Serve the scones warm with butter, cold cuts and pickles. Enjoy your delicious homemade scones as a delightful treat!