Introduction
Scones are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day, whether as a breakfast item, an afternoon snack, or a sweet addition to a tea party. This recipe features fresh strawberries, creating a wonderful contrast between the slightly sweet and buttery scone and the tart fruit. Topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze, these scones are a true indulgence.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 stick unsalted butter, very cold
½ cup heavy cream, plus 1 tablespoon
1 cup strawberries, cut into pieces
Cream Cheese Glaze Ingredients:
4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
¾ cup powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup milk
Pinch of salt
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8 scones
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a seasoned baking stone.
2. In a food processor or large bowl, blend together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter to the mixture and pulse until the texture resembles sand and sticks together when pressed. If not using a food processor, use a pastry cutter to work in the butter.
4. Pour in ½ cup of heavy cream and pulse to combine the dough. If the dough becomes too thick, remove the blade and use a wooden spoon. If not using a food processor, pour the heavy cream into the bowl and stir to combine.
5. Gently fold in the strawberries.
6. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to prevent the scones from spreading.
7. Turn the chilled dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently bring it together. Pat into a circle about 1 to 1½ inches thick. Avoid overworking the dough.
8. Using a sharp knife, cut the circle into 8 wedges.
9. Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet.
10. Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the scones are crispy on the outside and soft in the middle.
11. While the scones are cooling, prepare the cream cheese glaze by mixing together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk in the milk until smooth.
12. Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the cooled scones.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or prepare a seasoned baking stone.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a food processor or a large bowl, blend together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well mixed.
Step 3: Incorporate Butter
Add the very cold stick of unsalted butter to the mixture. Pulse until the texture resembles sand and holds together when pressed. If not using a food processor, employ a pastry cutter to work in the butter until the desired texture is achieved.
Step 4: Mix in Cream
Pour in ½ cup of heavy cream and pulse to combine the dough. If the dough becomes too thick, remove the blade and use a wooden spoon to finish. Alternatively, if not using a food processor, add the heavy cream to the bowl and stir until mixed.
Step 5: Fold in Strawberries
Gently fold the cut strawberries into the dough, ensuring even distribution without over-mixing.
Step 6: Chill the Dough
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 10 minutes. This step is crucial to prevent the scones from spreading during baking.
Step 7: Shape the Dough
Turn the chilled dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently bring it together. Pat the dough into a circle approximately 1 to 1½ inches thick, taking care to avoid overworking it.
Step 8: Cut the Wedges
Using a sharp knife, cut the circle into 8 equal wedges.
Step 9: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced adequately.
Step 10: Bake
Bake the scones for about 15 minutes, or until they are crispy on the outside and soft in the center.
Step 11: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze
While the scones are cooling, prepare the cream cheese glaze by mixing together the room temperature cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth.
Step 12: Drizzle the Glaze
Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the cooled scones, allowing it to set before serving.
Notes
Ingredient Temperature
Ensure that the butter is very cold, as this contributes to the flakiness of the scones.
Strawberry Preparation
Cut the strawberries into small, even pieces to ensure they distribute well throughout the dough.
Do Not Overwork Dough
Handle the dough gently to maintain its texture. Overworking can lead to density instead of lightness.
Cooling Time
Allow the scones to cool completely before drizzling with glaze for optimal presentation and flavor.
Cook techniques
Mixing Dry Ingredients
When combining flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt, ensure they are well blended to create an even distribution of the leavening agent and flavor.
Cutting in Butter
Use a food processor or a pastry cutter to incorporate very cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse sand. This technique helps create a flaky texture in the final baked product.
Combining Wet Ingredients
When adding heavy cream, gently fold the mixture instead of vigorously stirring. This helps maintain the lightness of the dough.
Chilling the Dough
Refrigerating the dough for 10 minutes before shaping helps prevent the scones from spreading too much during baking.
Patting the Dough
Gently pat the dough into a circle rather than rolling it out, which can develop gluten and make the scones tough.
Cutting Dough Wedges
Use a sharp knife to cut the dough into wedges. A clean cut ensures that the scones rise evenly during baking.
Baking Techniques
Position the baking sheet in the center of the oven to promote even baking. Monitor the scones closely to achieve a crispy exterior and soft interior.
Preparing the Cream Cheese Glaze
Soften the cream cheese to room temperature before mixing, which ensures a smooth and creamy texture. Gradually whisk in the milk to achieve the desired consistency.
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just ensure they are thawed and drained of excess moisture to avoid a soggy dough.
How do I store leftover scones?
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
You can use milk or a non-dairy alternative, but heavy cream provides a richer flavor and texture.
What can I use instead of cream cheese for the glaze?
You could use mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt as alternatives, but the flavor and consistency will vary.
How do I know when the scones are done baking?
The scones should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Conclusion
The combination of tender scones infused with fresh strawberries and topped with a creamy glaze makes for a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack. The balance of buttery, flaky pastry and rich glaze results in a satisfying bite that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Enjoy these scones warm from the oven or at a later time, knowing that they are versatile and can be adapted to suit your tastes.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Lemon Blueberry Scones
Swap strawberries for fresh blueberries and add lemon zest for a refreshing twist. Drizzle with a lemon glaze for an extra citrusy kick.
Chocolate Chip Scones
Incorporate semi-sweet chocolate chips into the dough for a decadent version. Pair with a chocolate drizzle or leave the cream cheese glaze as is.
Raspberry Almond Scones
Replace strawberries with raspberries and add a hint of almond extract to the dough. Top with a simple almond glaze for added flavor.
Peach Ginger Scones
Use diced peaches and a small amount of grated ginger for a summery flavor profile. A drizzle of honey glaze complements the freshness beautifully.
Cranberry Orange Scones
Combine dried cranberries and orange zest in the dough for a festive fall or winter treat. An orange glaze would tie the flavors together perfectly.
