Classic and crumbly, Strawberries and Cream Scones are a delightful treat that can brighten any occasion. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon tea, these scones feature the sweetness of fresh strawberries paired with rich vanilla cream. Even those who typically shy away from scones will find themselves falling in love with this version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these scones in no time.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of strawberries and cream creates a deliciously sweet and rich flavor profile.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them warm with butter, alongside a cup of tea, or as dessert topped with glaze.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a festive gathering, these scones are sure to impress.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Pastry cutter (optional)
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl helps combine all the ingredients effectively.
- Baking sheet: Ensures an even bake while providing enough space for your scones.
- Whisk: Ideal for blending wet ingredients smoothly without clumps.
- Rubber spatula: Great for folding in delicate ingredients like strawberries without mashing them.
Ingredients
Classic and crumbly fresh strawberry scones topped with vanilla cream. Even scone haters LOVE these.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter, VERY cold and cut into tiny pieces
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Add-ins
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
Toppings
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon water
- 2 tablespoons sugar, for sprinkling
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream for glaze
- 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar for glaze
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for glaze
- Tiny pinch of salt (1/8 teaspoon or less)
How to Make Strawberries and Cream Scones
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the following:
– Flour
– Salt
– Baking powder
– Baking soda
– Granulated sugar
Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Incorporate Butter
Cut the cold butter into small cubes. Work it into the dry mixture using your fingers, two forks, or a pastry cutter until it resembles a coarse meal.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together:
– Egg
– Milk
– Heavy cream
Add this mixture to the flour/butter mixture. Use a fork to stir until just moistened.
Step 5: Fold in Strawberries
Gently fold in the quartered strawberries using a rubber spatula. Don’t worry if some berries break apart slightly; it adds character!
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Turn out the loose dough onto a clean, floured surface. Shape it into an 8-inch circle. You may need to knead it gently a few times until it reaches a workable texture.
Step 7: Cut Into Wedges
Cut the dough into 8 wedges. Carefully transfer each piece to your prepared baking sheet, placing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 8: Brush and Sprinkle
Lightly brush each scone with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle sugar on top.
Step 9: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for about 18 minutes or until they are light golden brown.
Step 10: Cool Before Glazing
Allow the scones to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes while you prepare your glaze.
For the glaze:
Step 11: Prepare Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together:
– Heavy cream
– Confectioners’ sugar
– Vanilla extract
– Salt
Drizzle over semi-warm scones before serving immediately. Enjoy your delicious Strawberries and Cream Scones!
How to Serve Strawberries and Cream Scones
Serving Strawberries and Cream Scones can elevate any breakfast or brunch. Here are some delightful ways to present them for an unforgettable experience.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve the scones with a side of mixed fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, and more strawberries for added color and flavor.
Drizzled with Honey
- A drizzle of honey over the top provides a natural sweetness that complements the strawberry flavor beautifully.
Accompanied by Whipped Cream
- Offer whipped cream on the side for guests who enjoy an extra creamy texture with their scones.
Paired with Tea or Coffee
- Serve alongside a pot of freshly brewed tea or coffee to enhance the flavors and create a cozy atmosphere.
With Jam Selections
- Present various jams such as strawberry, raspberry, or apricot for guests to spread on their scones as they wish.
Topped with Ice Cream
- For a decadent treat, serve warm scones topped with vanilla ice cream, creating a delicious contrast between hot and cold.
How to Perfect Strawberries and Cream Scones
To make your Strawberries and Cream Scones truly exceptional, follow these tips for the best results.
- Use cold ingredients: Ensure that your butter and cream are very cold; this helps create flakier scones.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the scones tender. Overworking the dough can lead to tough scones.
- Fold gently: When adding strawberries, fold them in carefully to avoid mashing them too much.
- Chill before baking: If time allows, chilling shaped scones for 15 minutes can help them rise better in the oven.
- Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on your scones, as oven temperatures can vary. Bake until they are lightly golden brown.
- Add citrus zest: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding lemon or orange zest into the dough.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberries and Cream Scones
Pairing sides with your Strawberries and Cream Scones can enhance the meal. Here are some great options to consider:
-
Fruit Salad
A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light balance to the rich flavors of the scone. -
Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a deliciously creamy complement to your scone. -
Mini Quiches
Serve small quiches filled with vegetables or cheese for a savory option alongside sweet scones. -
Smoked Salmon Platter
A platter featuring smoked salmon, capers, and cream cheese adds sophistication to your brunch spread. -
Savory Cheese Board
Include a selection of cheeses with crackers and nuts for guests who enjoy savory alongside sweet treats. -
Herb-Infused Tea
Offer an herbal tea infused with mint or chamomile to cleanse the palate between bites of your scrumptious scones. -
Nut Butter Spread
Provide almond or peanut butter for those who enjoy spreading something hearty on their baked goods. -
Cucumber Sandwiches
Light cucumber sandwiches add freshness and complement the sweetness of the scone perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Strawberries and Cream Scones can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure the best results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
-
Using warm butter: Warm butter can lead to dense scones. Always use very cold butter and cut it into tiny pieces before mixing.
-
Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can make the scones tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined and avoid excessive handling.
-
Skipping the egg wash: The egg wash gives a beautiful golden color and adds a nice texture. Don’t skip this step; it makes a difference!
-
Not measuring flour correctly: Incorrect flour measurement can alter the texture of your scones. Use the spoon-and-level method for precision.
-
Ignoring oven temperature: Each oven is different, and some may run hotter or cooler. Keep an eye on your scones towards the end of baking to prevent over-browning.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store unglazed scones in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Strawberries and Cream Scones
- Wrap cooled scones tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can last up to 3 months.
Reheating Strawberries and Cream Scones
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one scone at a time for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Place a scone in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Strawberries and Cream Scones:
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dough.
How do I make my scones more flavorful?
To enhance flavor, consider adding lemon zest or almond extract along with the vanilla in your glaze.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though it may affect the richness of your glaze.
Can I make vegan Strawberries and Cream Scones?
Absolutely! Substitute dairy milk with plant-based milk, use vegan butter, and replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water.
Final Thoughts
These Strawberries and Cream Scones are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea. Their crumbly texture paired with fresh strawberries creates an irresistible combination that everyone will love. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or other fruits to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Strawberries and Cream Scones
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Strawberries and Cream Scones, a perfect treat for any occasion. Soft, crumbly, and bursting with fresh strawberries, these scones are elevated by a rich vanilla cream glaze that adds an irresistible sweetness. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea, they will impress even those who typically shy away from scones. Easy to make with simple ingredients, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and time again.
Ingredients
- 2 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup fresh strawberries
- Toppings: beaten egg wash, sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
- Incorporate cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Whisk together the egg, milk, and heavy cream; then add to the dry mixture.
- Gently fold in quartered strawberries.
- Shape the dough into an 8-inch circle and cut into wedges.
- Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar before baking for about 18 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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