Introduction
Welcome to the world of delightful baking! These delightful lemon scones are the perfect treat to brighten your day. With a zesty burst of lemon flavor and a tender, flaky texture, each bite is like a little piece of sunshine. Best of all, they come together in just 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for breakfast or an afternoon tea treat. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and bring some warmth into the kitchen with these scrumptious scones!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 8 scones
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt, mixing well to combine all the dry ingredients.
- Add the chilled, cubed butter to the flour mixture, using a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, perfect for creating that flaky texture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those scones to be light and airy!
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently a few times until it comes together, ensuring we keep that fluffy texture intact.
- Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick and use a round cutter or knife to cut out scones from the dough.
- Place the cut scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a lovely golden sheen.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the scones are lightly golden on top and your kitchen is filled with a mouthwatering aroma.
- Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best experience!
Notes or Tips
- For an extra lemony flavor, consider adding a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice on top of the cooled scones.
- Feel free to experiment by adding poppy seeds or dried cranberries for additional flavor and texture.
- These scones are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days.
Cooking Techniques
Cutting in the butter is a critical step in making scones. It’s what helps create those tender layers that make them so enjoyable. Remember to keep your butter cold and handle the dough as little as possible to ensure your scones turn out perfectly flaky!
FAQ
- Can I freeze the dough? Yes! You can freeze the shaped scones on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- What if I don’t have heavy cream? You can substitute with whole milk, but the scones may be a little less rich and creamy.
- Can I make these scones ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.
Conclusion
These lemon scones are a delightful addition to any meal, and they bring a refreshing zest that lifts the spirits. Perfectly paired with a cup of tea or coffee, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether enjoyed at breakfast or as a sweet afternoon treat, these scones are as enjoyable to make as they are to eat. So gather your ingredients and let the baking fun begin!