1/2 cup heavy cream (plus 1 tablespoon for brushing)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coarse sugar (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare – Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking powder, and salt. Make sure there are no large lumps of cocoa or espresso powder.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter – Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or two forks to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients – In a separate small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 5: Combine and Add Chocolate – Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just moistened. Fold in the chocolate chips. Be careful not to overmix, as this will make the scones tough.
Step 6: Shape and Cut – Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into an 8-inch disc. Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut the disc into 8 equal wedges.
Step 7: Final Flourish and Bake – Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with a little extra heavy cream and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the tops are set. Let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.