Introduction
Creating the perfect scone can be a rewarding experience, especially when you have the right ingredients and a simple method to follow. This recipe features a delightful blend of semi-sweet chocolate chips and a soft, buttery base that is sure to please any palate. Enjoy these sweet treats as a breakfast option or an afternoon snack, served warm with a cup of tea or coffee.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, very cold
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, plus 1 tablespoon
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar, for decorating
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8 scones
With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can create a batch of delicious chocolate chip scones that are perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own. Happy baking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or utilize a seasoned baking stone.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a food processor, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Blend until mixed evenly.
Step 3: Add Cold Butter
Introduce the very cold unsalted butter to the mixture. Pulse the food processor until the texture resembles coarse sand and the mixture holds together when pressed.
Step 4: Combine with Heavy Cream
Pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and pulse again until combined. If the dough becomes too thick, take out the blade and use a wooden spoon to mix.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the dough using a spatula or wooden spoon until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Fold it over on itself four to five times to bring it together without overworking it.
Step 7: Form a Circle
Pat the dough into a circle that is approximately 1 to 1 ½ inches thick.
Step 8: Cut into Wedges
Using a sharp knife, slice the circle into 8 equal wedges for a classic scone shape.
Step 9: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the scone wedges onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart slightly.
Step 10: Brush and Sprinkle
With a pastry brush, apply the remaining tablespoon of heavy cream on the tops of the scones. Sprinkle the turbinado sugar generously over the tops for added sweetness and crunch.
Step 11: Bake the Scones
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the scones have a golden-brown, crispy exterior while remaining soft inside.
Step 12: Serve or Store
Once baked, serve the scones warm. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Notes
Butter Temperature
Ensure that the unsalted butter is very cold for optimal flakiness in the scones.
Texture Check
The dough should be moist but not overly sticky. Adjust with more flour if necessary during shaping.
Chocolate Chip Variations
Feel free to substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate or other mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits for variation.
Reheating
If serving leftovers, reheat the scones in an oven for a few minutes to restore freshness.
Cook techniques
Measuring Ingredients
Ensure that you measure the flour accurately by spooning it into a measuring cup and leveling it off with a straight edge. This prevents the dough from becoming too dense.
Cutting Cold Butter
When incorporating the cold butter into the flour mixture, use a food processor or a pastry cutter. This allows the butter to remain in small pieces, creating a flakier texture in the final product.
Pulsing the Dough
Use short pulses in the food processor to combine the ingredients without overworking the dough. This method helps maintain a tender scone.
Folding Technique
After blending the dough, lightly fold it on a floured surface rather than kneading it. This gentle handling keeps the scones light and airy.
Shaping the Scones
When patting the dough into a circle, try to keep it even in thickness to ensure uniform baking. Use a sharp knife to cut the wedges for clean edges.
Brushing with Cream
Brushing the tops of the scones with heavy cream adds richness and creates a beautiful golden-brown color during baking.
Baking Time and Temperature
Monitor the scones closely while baking. They should be golden on the outside and soft in the middle. Adjust the baking time based on your oven’s performance.
FAQ
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce the added salt in the recipe.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half, but the texture may be slightly different. For a lighter version, you can use whole milk, though the scones may not be as rich.
How do I store the scones?
Store the scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
Can I add different mix-ins?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or different types of chocolate according to your preference.
What temperature should I preheat the oven to?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for optimal baking results.
Why are my scones hard?
Overworking the dough can lead to tough scones. Handle the dough as little as possible for a tender texture.
Conclusion
These delicious chocolate chip scones are a delightful treat that balances a crispy exterior with a soft and buttery inside. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack, they are quick and easy to make. Enjoy the rich flavors and the comforting texture that these scones bring, making them a favorite for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Blueberry Lemon Scones
Substitute chocolate chips with fresh blueberries and add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a refreshing twist.
Nutty Almond Scones
Incorporate slivered almonds into the dough and replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with dried cherries for a delightful combination.
Maple Pecan Scones
Add chopped pecans and a splash of maple extract to the dough, topping the scones with a light drizzle of maple glaze after baking.
Cinnamon Raisin Scones
Mix in cinnamon and raisins to the main dough to create a warm, spiced flavor that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea.
Double Chocolate Scones
For a richer treat, add cocoa powder to the flour mixture and increase the amount of chocolate chips for a double chocolate delight.
