Introduction
There’s something magical about the scent of freshly baked scones wafting through your kitchen, especially when they’re infused with the bright and sunny flavor of lemon. These lemon scones are quick to make — ready in just 30 minutes — and offer a burst of zesty goodness in every bite. With their tender, flaky texture and a sweet glaze that adds an elegant touch, they are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a delightful afternoon tea.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for glaze)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and perfect baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This creates the foundation for your perfectly fluffy scones.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients, and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with little bits of butter evenly distributed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined. This mixture will infuse your scones with that bright, lemony flavor.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix; you want to keep the scones tender!
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together into a cohesive mass.
- Pat the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut it into wedges or use a round cutter to create beautiful circles.
- Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are perfectly golden brown and have a lovely aroma.
- While the scones are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.
- Once the scones are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before drizzling with the luscious glaze — this is the finishing touch that makes them irresistible!
Notes or Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding poppy seeds or dried cranberries to the dough.
- If you prefer a less sweet glaze, feel free to adjust the amount of powdered sugar to your taste.
- These scones are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container for a few days. Just rewarm them to bring back their delightful texture.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to use cold butter; this helps create flaky layers in the scones as it melts during baking. Also, handle the dough gently when kneading and cutting to keep them light and airy. This approach is key to achieving that fluffy, tender interior that makes scones so delightful!
FAQ
- Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? Yes, you can substitute milk, but the scones may not be as rich. Heavy cream adds to their tender texture.
- How can I make these scones ahead of time? You can prepare the dough, shape the scones, and freeze them. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Conclusion
These lemon scones are not only quick to whip up but also a delightful treat that brings a ray of sunshine to your table. With their zesty flavor and warm, comforting texture, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven with a hot cup of tea or coffee, and watch as they quickly become a cherished staple in your recipe collection!