In the realm of baking, few treats are as universally beloved as scones. Especially when they're paired with a cup of tea or coffee, scones make any weekend morning feel special. Today, we'll delve into making one of the simplest yet delightful scone variations - Blueberry Scones. These scones are perfect for those looking to bake something delicious with minimal effort, suitable for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
Ingredients
Before you start, gather these ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1⁄4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1⁄4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄3 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1⁄2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- Additional heavy cream and sugar for topping
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these together to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents.
3. Incorporate Butter
Add the cold butter cubes to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour this into the flour mixture, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in Blueberries
Carefully fold in the blueberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed. If using frozen berries, toss them in a bit of flour first to prevent them from bleeding into the dough.
6. Shape the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Use a knife or a scone cutter to shape your scones. Alternatively, you can cut into wedges for a more rustic look.
7. Bake
Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with heavy cream and sprinkle with a little sugar for a nice crust. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they turn a golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve
Allow the scones to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm with clotted cream or your favorite spread.
💡 Note: For a delightful variation, consider adding a lemon zest to your dough for a zesty twist, or replace blueberries with raspberries or mixed berries.
Serving Suggestions
- Traditional English Style: Serve with clotted cream and jam.
- Contemporary Touch: Pair with lemon curd or Nutella.
- Healthy Alternative: Use Greek yogurt as a spread for a protein boost.
Storing and Freezing
Blueberry scones can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them unbaked:
- Shape and freeze scones on a tray until solid.
- Transfer to a freezer bag or container.
- Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
The beauty of this Blueberry Scone Recipe lies in its simplicity and the joy it brings to your weekend baking. Whether you're whipping up these treats for a family breakfast, an afternoon tea, or just because you have a craving for something sweet and fruity, these scones are sure to satisfy. They offer a perfect balance of flaky texture and the burst of blueberry flavor, making every bite a mini celebration of homemade goodness. We've explored the easy preparation steps, serving suggestions, and even some storage tips to ensure you can enjoy these scones at their best. The weekend baking treat couldn't get easier or more delicious than this!
Can I use frozen blueberries?
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Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Toss them in a bit of flour before adding to the dough to prevent them from sinking and bleeding into the scone.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
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Half-and-half or milk mixed with a little melted butter can be used as a substitute for heavy cream, though the scones might be less rich.
How do I make scones more moist?
+Ensure not to overwork the dough. Overmixing develops gluten, making scones tough rather than tender. Use cold ingredients, and if needed, add a little extra butter or cream.
