Who doesn’t love the bright taste of blueberry and lemon combined? In this post, I’ll share my easy and delicious recipe for Blueberry Lemon Scones. Whether you’re a baking newbie or a seasoned pro, you’ll enjoy the step-by-step guide packed with helpful tips. These scones are perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon treat. Let’s dive in and whip up something delightful together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bright Flavor: The combination of blueberries and lemon creates a fresh and vibrant flavor that is perfect for any time of day.
- Easy to Make: This scone recipe is straightforward and quick, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Perfectly Flaky: The use of cold butter ensures that these scones are wonderfully flaky and tender, just how a scone should be.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding different fruits or spices to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients with Measurements
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: coarse sugar for sprinkling
These ingredients create a balanced mix of flavors. The flour gives structure, while sugar adds sweetness. Baking powder and soda help the scones rise. Cold butter creates a flaky texture. Fresh blueberries burst with juice, and lemon zest brightens every bite.
Optional Ingredients for Variations
– Coarse sugar for topping
– Lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice
– Other berries like raspberries or strawberries
Feel free to get creative! You can add a glaze for extra sweetness. Trying different fruits can give a fun twist.
Nutritional Information per Serving
Each scone has about:
– Calories: 220
– Total Fat: 10g
– Saturated Fat: 6g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Sugars: 8g
– Protein: 3g
This information helps you balance your diet. Enjoy these scones as a treat, but remember to keep portion sizes in mind.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat makes the scones light and fluffy. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps the scones not stick.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Use a whisk to mix these dry ingredients well. This step is key for even flavor.
Incorporating Wet Ingredients and Forming Dough
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; the dough will be a bit sticky. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the scones tough.
Shaping and Cutting the Scones
Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat it into a round shape about 1 inch thick. Cut the dough into 8 equal wedges. Place these on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
Baking Guidelines and Timing
Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. They should turn a golden brown on top. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready!
Cooling Tips for Optimal Texture
Once baked, let the scones cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack. This step helps keep the bottom from getting soggy. Enjoy your warm blueberry lemon scones with a drizzle of lemon glaze for extra zing!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Scone Texture
To get the best scone texture, keep your butter cold. Cold butter helps create flaky layers. When you mix in the butter, use a pastry cutter or your fingers. Stop mixing when it looks like coarse crumbs. Overmixing can make your scones tough.
Next, handle the dough gently. After pouring in the wet ingredients, stir until just combined. A sticky dough is normal. Knead it lightly just a few times. Shape it into a circle that’s about one inch thick. This keeps your scones tender and fluffy.
Storing Leftover Scones
If you have leftover scones, store them properly. Let them cool completely first. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for about two days at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. Wrap each scone in plastic wrap, then put them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
To make your scones even better, serve them warm. Drizzle a simple lemon glaze on top. Just mix powdered sugar with lemon juice. Add a few fresh blueberries on the side for a pop of color. You can also enjoy these scones with clotted cream or butter. Pair them with your favorite tea or coffee. These drinks enhance the bright flavors of blueberry and lemon.
Pro Tips
- Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream are very cold; this helps create flakier scones.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to keep the scones tender and light.
- Fresh Blueberries: Use fresh blueberries for the best flavor; frozen ones can make the dough too wet.
- Perfecting the Shape: When cutting the scones, use a sharp knife to ensure clean edges and better rise.
Variations
Substitutions (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
You can easily make these scones gluten-free. Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. Look for one that works well in baking. For a dairy-free option, swap the unsalted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. Use almond milk or oat milk instead of heavy cream. This way, you can still enjoy the tasty flavors without gluten or dairy.
Flavor Variations (Adding Other Fruits or Nuts)
Feel free to mix it up! You can add different fruits like raspberries or strawberries. Chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, also add a nice crunch. Just keep the total fruit or nut amount to around 1 cup. This gives you room for all the flavors without making the dough too wet. Experimenting keeps the recipe fun!
Creative Serving Ideas (Glazes & Toppings)
Serving these scones with a glaze makes them even better. A simple lemon glaze is easy to make. Just mix powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice. Drizzle it over warm scones for a sweet touch. You can also sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking. This adds a nice crunch and sweet flavor. For extra fun, serve them with whipped cream or yogurt on the side. Enjoy the different textures and flavors!
Storage Info
Best Practices for Refrigeration
To keep your blueberry lemon scones fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb moisture. This helps maintain their soft texture. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want, you can also wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.
Freezing Instructions and Tips
Freezing scones is easy and a great way to save them for later. First, let the scones cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the scones to a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Scones Effectively
Reheating blueberry lemon scones is simple. For best results, use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet and warm them for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps them crisp on the outside and soft inside. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Warm them for about 20-30 seconds. However, they may not be as crispy. Enjoy your scones warm for the best flavor!
FAQs
What are the key differences between scones and biscuits?
Scones and biscuits differ in texture and sweetness. Scones are denser and sweeter. They often have added flavors like fruit or citrus. Biscuits are flaky and savory. They often use buttermilk and are less sweet. Both are delicious, but they serve different purposes in meals.
Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries! They work well in this recipe. Just add them straight from the freezer. Do not thaw them beforehand. This helps keep the scones from getting too wet. Plus, frozen blueberries burst nicely while baking.
How can I tell when the scones are fully baked?
Look for a golden-brown color on the tops of the scones. You can also insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the scones are done. If it has wet dough on it, bake for a few more minutes. Keep an eye on them!
What can I serve with blueberry lemon scones?
Blueberry lemon scones are great on their own, but you can serve them with more! Try a drizzle of lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice. Whipped cream or clotted cream adds a nice touch too. Fresh blueberries on the side make it even better!
How long do scones stay fresh?
Freshly baked scones taste best the same day. They can stay fresh for up to two days at room temperature. To store them, place them in an airtight container. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
You now know how to make delicious blueberry lemon scones. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You also learned how to store and freeze your scones for later.
Scone-making can be fun and easy. Experiment with flavors and variations to find what you love. Enjoy your fresh scones with friends or as a treat for yourself. Happy bakin
