Why Make This Recipe
If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brightens up any meal, strawberry scones are an excellent choice. They are light, flaky, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. Perfect for breakfast or a midday snack, you can enjoy them with tea or coffee or serve them as a sweet finish to a brunch. What’s more, they are quick to make, requiring minimal preparation time. With every bite, you get a taste of spring and summer, making them a favorite among fruit lovers. Not only do they taste great, but they also look beautiful on a platter, enticing everyone around the table to grab one (or two!).
How to Make Strawberry Scones
Making strawberry scones at home is surprisingly easy. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up a batch that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Below are the ingredients and directions to make these lovely 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, cold and cubed
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze)
Directions
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your scones will bake evenly. Also, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step is key for getting the scones to rise properly while ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- Add cold butter: Take the cold butter and cut it into small cubes. Add these to the dry ingredients and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You can use a fork, pastry blender, or your fingers to do this—just be careful not to overwork the dough.
- Fold in strawberries: Gently fold in the diced strawberries. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture, so you get a sweet burst of strawberry in every bite.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract. Make sure these ingredients are well combined.
- Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the scones tough.
- Turn out the dough: Lightly flour your work surface and turn out the dough. Knead it gently a few times to bring it together. You want to maintain some flakiness, so be gentle.
- Shape the dough: Pat the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick. You can cut it into wedges with a knife or use a round cutter for a traditional scone shape.
- Prepare for baking: Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to give them some space, as they will spread a little while baking.
- Bake: Bake the scones for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them, as ovens may vary.
- Make the glaze: While the scones are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a bowl until smooth. This will give your scones a beautiful, tasty glaze.
- Glaze the scones: Once the scones are done baking, remove them from the oven. Drizzle the glaze over the warm scones, allowing it to soak in a little before serving. Let them cool for a few moments before enjoying.
How to Serve Strawberry Scones
Serving strawberry scones is a delightful experience. You can serve them warm straight from the oven, or allow them to cool slightly for a few minutes. They are perfect on their own but can be enjoyed with butter or cream cheese for added richness. For a festive touch, serve them with a side of clotted cream or jam.
Additionally, pairing them with a cup of tea, coffee, or even a chilled glass of lemonade makes for a lovely afternoon treat. If you want to impress guests, arrange the scones on a platter and garnish with fresh strawberries or mint leaves.
How to Store Strawberry Scones
If you find yourself with leftover scones, it is important to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Allow the scones to cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for about two days.
If you want them to last longer, store them in the refrigerator, where they can maintain their freshness for up to a week. For extended storage, consider freezing the scones. Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will stay good for about two months. To enjoy again, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Tips to Make Strawberry Scones
- Use cold ingredients: Keeping the butter and buttermilk cold helps in achieving flakier scones. You can even place your flour and bowls in the fridge prior to starting if you enjoy a hands-on approach.
- Don’t overwork the dough: Handle the dough gently to maintain its tenderness. Overworking can lead to a tough scone.
- Experiment with flavored extracts: Besides vanilla, consider adding almond or lemon extract for a twist on flavor.
- Try different fruits: While strawberries are delicious, you can experiment with blueberries, raspberries, or even chocolate chips for a different take.
- Adjust sweetness: Depending on your taste preference, you can reduce or increase the amount of sugar, especially in the glaze.
Variation
Beyond the classic strawberry scones, many variations are possible. You could add nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch. Another option is to incorporate a mix of berries for a berry medley scone.
For a seasonal twist, try adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a hint of lemon or orange zest for a citrusy flavor. If you enjoy a richer taste, consider adding a little cream cheese to the dough, resulting in a richer texture and deeper flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember that the consistency may vary slightly due to resting.
Can I make scones without buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute. Mix one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with enough milk to make 1/2 cup, let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, and you’ll have a great buttermilk substitute.
What should I do if my scones are too crumbly?
If your scones are too crumbly, it may be because you didn’t add enough moisture. Next time, try increasing the buttermilk slightly or adding a splash of milk to the dough.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create the perfect strawberry scones that not only taste amazing but also make your kitchen smell fantastic while baking. Enjoy the process and share these treats with friends and family for a delightful experience!
[tasty-recipe id=”8784″]