Raspberry Almond Scones
Raspberry Almond Scones Article
Indulging in a freshly baked scone is one of life’s simplest pleasures, and nothing quite compares to the delightful combination of tart raspberries and nutty almond flavor. These Raspberry Almond Scones are a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. With a crumbly texture that melts in your mouth and bursts of juicy raspberries in every bite, you’ll love how easy they are to make. Whether paired with a cup of tea or enjoyed on their own, these scones promise to make your day a little brighter.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 8 scones
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 180
- Protein: 3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 22 grams
- Fat: 9 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Sodium: 150 mg
Why Make This Raspberry Almond Scones
These Raspberry Almond Scones are not just a feast for the taste buds; they are also a treat for the eyes. Their pale golden hue and the flecks of red from the raspberries create an inviting presentation. The almond extract infuses the scones with a sweet, nutty aroma that fills the kitchen, making them perfect for family gatherings or a cozy coffee date. Plus, they are versatile enough to customize with other ingredients like chocolate chips or different fruits, ensuring you can make them your own.
How to Make Raspberry Almond Scones
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- Sliced almonds for topping
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until fully combined.
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Step 2: Mixing
Cut the cold, cubed butter into the dry mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving that light, flaky texture.
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Step 3: Combining Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and almond extract. This mixture will add moisture and flavor to the scones.
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Step 4: Dough Formation
Add the wet ingredients to the dry mix, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough scones. Gently fold in the fresh raspberries.
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Step 5: Shaping the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Traditional scones are cut into wedges, so slice the circle into 8 equal pieces and transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Step 6: Topping and Baking
Sprinkle the tops of the scones with sliced almonds for an added crunch. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as ovens can vary!
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Step 7: Cooling
Allow the scones to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy while warm for the best experience.
How to Serve Raspberry Almond Scones
Serve these delightful scones warm or at room temperature, ideally with a dollop of clotted cream or a smear of butter. They pair wonderfully with tea or coffee, making them an excellent choice for tea time or brunch gatherings.
How to Store Raspberry Almond Scones
To keep your scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked scones for up to 2 months. Just reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to enjoy again.
Expert Tips for Perfect Raspberry Almond Scones
- Use very cold butter to achieve that flaky texture. You can even freeze the butter for a few minutes before cutting it in.
- Don’t overwork the dough; mix just until combined for the best results.
- If you want a sweeter scone, feel free to add an additional tablespoon of sugar.
- Experiment with frozen raspberries during off-seasons — just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture beforehand.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Chip Scones: Substitute chocolate chips for the raspberries for a decadent twist.
- Lemon Blueberry Scones: Swap the raspberries for blueberries and add a touch of lemon zest for a refreshing flavor.
- Cranberry Pecan Scones: Use dried cranberries and toasted pecans for a seasonal treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I make these scones ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. -
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use whole milk or buttermilk, although this may alter the texture slightly. -
Can I use frozen raspberries?
Yes, just ensure they are thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture in the dough. -
What should I do if my scone dough is too dry?
Add a tablespoon of cream or milk at a time until the dough holds together but is not sticky. -
How can I add extra flavor?
Consider adding citrus zest or spices like cinnamon to elevate the flavor profile.
Conclusion
These Raspberry Almond Scones are a delicious and simple treat that anyone can whip up with minimal effort. With their lovely flavor and beautiful presentation, they are sure to impress friends and family. So, gather your ingredients and experience the joy of baking — you won’t regret giving this recipe a try!
