These strawberry scones are soft, flaky, and bursting with sweet berries. They make the perfect treat for breakfast or tea-time and smell amazing while baking!
Whenever I bake these, my kitchen feels like a cozy bakery. I love enjoying them warm, with a little butter on top! Who can resist a little sweetness in their day? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your scones. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try a gluten-free flour blend instead. I’ve also had good results with whole wheat flour, though it gives a denser texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter is the best choice as it allows you to control the salt in your scones. If you need a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter. Both options work well and add a unique flavor.
Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are a must for their moisture and sweetness. Don’t have fresh ones? You can use thawed frozen strawberries, but be sure to drain excess moisture before adding.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness and helps the scones rise. You can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk, but the texture will be a bit less fluffy. For a lighter option, try yogurt but add a little more flour for balance.
Extracts: Vanilla extract is key in enhancing flavor. The almond extract is optional but adds a lovely touch. If you don’t have it, try using a hint of lemon or orange zest instead for a different zestiness.
How Do I Get My Scones Fluffy and Tender?
Getting scones just right requires a few careful techniques. The butter should be cold to create a flaky texture. Here’s how to ensure great results:
- Start by working quickly with the cold butter, incorporating it into the flour until it looks like coarse crumbs.
- When adding the liquid, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough scones, so it’s okay if the dough is a bit shaggy.
- A gentle knead is crucial; fold the dough a few times to keep it light. Pat it down instead of rolling to maintain thickness.
And remember, using parchment paper helps avoid sticking while ensuring an even bake. Enjoy your time baking these tasty scones!
How to Make Strawberry Scones?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Scones:
- 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 diced fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (plus more for brushing)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake. Make sure to allow a few minutes for the scones to cool before adding the glaze. In total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the scones from sticking. This will make cleanup a breeze later!
2. Mixing the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This will help to evenly distribute the ingredients and ensure your scones rise nicely.
3. Cutting in the Butter:
Next, add the cold, cubed butter to your flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until it looks like coarse crumbs. This step is key for a flaky scone—don’t worry about being too precise!
4. Adding Strawberries:
Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries. Be careful not to mash them; you want to keep those lovely chunks intact for bursts of flavor in every bite.
5. Mixing Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if you’re using it). Pour this creamy mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps; overmixing can make the scones tough.
6. Shaping the Dough:
Lightly flour your countertop and turn the dough out onto it. Knead it gently a few times until it all holds together, then pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick. This will give you the perfect thickness for your scones!
7. Cutting and Placing on Baking Sheet:
Using a sharp knife, cut the circle into 8 wedges. Carefully place the wedges on your prepared baking sheet. To give them a nice golden color, brush the tops lightly with a little extra heavy cream.
8. Baking:
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to be golden brown. The wonderful aroma will fill your kitchen!
9. Making the Glaze:
While the scones are baking, mix the powdered sugar with enough milk to get a drizzling consistency. It should be smooth and easy to pour over the scones when they’re ready.
10. Drizzling and Serving:
Once your scones are done, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes. Then drizzle the glaze over the top when they’re still slightly warm. You can also serve them with whole strawberries for an extra touch. Enjoy your delicious strawberry scones!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid a soggy scone dough. Frozen strawberries may also change the texture slightly, but they will still be delicious!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the scones may be less rich and tender. If you want a closer substitute to heavy cream, you can use a mix of milk and melted butter (about 1/4 cup milk and 2 tablespoons melted butter for each 1/2 cup needed).
How Should I Store Leftover Scones?
Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for up to a month. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn!
Can I Add Other Fruits or Flavors to the Scones?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add in other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries. You can also add in chopped nuts, lemon zest for a citrusy kick, or even try using different extracts like coconut for a unique flavor twist!
