Scones are a delightful treat that bring a touch of elegance and coziness to any afternoon teatime or weekend brunch. These flaky and buttery pastry delights are perfect to accompany a cup of tea or coffee. They are a versatile baked good that can be made sweet or savory, depending on your mood and preferences. In this recipe, we’ll be focusing on the classic sweet version that melts in your mouth, leaving you craving just one more bite. Let’s dive into making these irresistible scones!
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Optional: 1/2 cup dried fruit (such as raisins or cranberries) or chocolate chips
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the cold butter pieces to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. You can also use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour for a crumbly texture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the flour and butter mixture. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
6. If you’re adding dried fruit or chocolate chips, gently fold them into the dough at this stage.
7. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Pat it into a circle about 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick.
8. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 equal wedges, like you would a pizza.
9. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top.
11. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These scones are best enjoyed warm with a dollop of clotted cream, jam, or simply on their own.
These homemade scones are a perfect blend of flakiness and sweetness that will impress your guests and warm your heart. Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins like dried fruit, nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a unique twist on this classic recipe. From lazy Sunday mornings to special occasions, these scones are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the process of creating these tender and flavorful treats, and relish in the joy of sharing them with your loved ones.
