01 - Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
03 - Cut cold butter into the dry mixture using a pastry blender or fingertips until it forms coarse crumbs.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg. Add to the dry mixture and stir gently until a shaggy dough forms.
05 - Fold in hot sauce, melted butter, crumbled blue cheese, and chopped scallions. Do not overmix.
06 - On a lightly floured surface, pat dough into a one-inch-thick circle and cut into eight wedges.
07 - In a small saucepan, bring water and baking soda to a simmer. Using a slotted spatula, briefly dip each scone into the solution and transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
08 - Sprinkle each scone with flaky sea salt.
09 - Bake for 16 to 18 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
10 - Allow to cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before serving.