Strawberries and Cream Scones

The delightful union of strawberries and cream feels like a hug on a plate, doesn’t it? Picture fluffy, buttery scones melded with fresh strawberries and a dollop of cream. It’s aromatic, it’s comforting, and it’s an absolute treat for any brunch table or afternoon snack! As sweet as they are, these scones are surprisingly simple to whip up. Let’s dive into the details on making the perfect strawberries and cream scones that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Freshly baked strawberries and cream scones on a rustic wooden table

Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial, and here’s what you need to create these mouthwatering scones:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or white chocolate chips for a twist
  • A sprinkle of powdered sugar for serving

Feel free to substitute the heavy cream with any non-dairy alternative for a lighter version, and swap out the strawberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries if desired!

Timing

When it comes to timing, here’s the lowdown on how long this indulgent treat will take:

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes

In less than an hour, you can have fresh, fragrant strawberries and cream scones ready to serve. Perfect for unplanned guests or a cozy weekend breakfast!

How to Make Strawberries and Cream Scones

Creating these delightful scones is simpler than you might think. Just follow these steps, and you’ll impress your family and friends in no time.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This blends the dry ingredients and ensures even flavor distribution.

Step 3: Add the chilled butter to your flour mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Don’t worry if some larger pieces remain; they’ll add a delightful flakiness.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until it’s well combined.

Step 5: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Combine gently until just incorporated. Be cautious not to overmix, as this may lead to dense scones.

Step 6: Gently fold in the diced strawberries. Aim for an even distribution, but be careful not to crush them!

Step 7: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a round disk roughly 1-inch thick. Cut into wedges (like a pizza) or use a biscuit cutter for uniformity.

Step 8: Place the scones onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. For a golden-brown finish, brush the tops lightly with some additional heavy cream.

Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they’re beautifully golden and fragrant.

Step 10: Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Serve warm, optionally topped with whipped cream or a sprinkling of powdered sugar.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to make these scones a bit lighter or suitable for various dietary needs, here are some options:

  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
  • Vegan Version: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
  • Lower Sugar: You can reduce the sugar and substitute with natural sweeteners such as stevia or honey for a healthier option.

Serving Suggestions

These scones shine best when served warm. Pair them with:

  • Fresh whipped cream or clotted cream for a traditional touch.
  • A side of seasonal fruit to enhance the flavor.
  • A pot of black tea or herbal tea, perfectly complementing the scones.

To elevate your presentation, try stacking them on a pedestal plate or arranging them on a wooden board alongside your toppings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making scones is relatively straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch for:

  • Overmixing the Dough: This leads to tough scones. Always mix until just combined.
  • Not Using Cold Ingredients: Chilled butter and cream create that delightful flakiness; room temperature will yield dense scones.
  • Incorrect Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated adequately. Scones need the heat to create that lift and tender crumb.

To keep things in check, use an oven thermometer to verify the temperature is just right before baking.

Storage Tips

To ensure your scones remain fresh:

  • Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • For longer storage, freeze them for up to a month. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight freezer bag.
  • To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

Making these scones ahead of time can be a game changer for busy mornings or unexpected guests.

Print
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Strawberries and Cream Scones


  • Author: Mark Bennett
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

Fluffy, buttery scones melded with fresh strawberries and a dollop of cream, perfect for brunch or an afternoon snack.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or white chocolate chips (optional)
  • A sprinkle of powdered sugar for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Add the chilled butter to the flour mixture and work it in until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Mix the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until combined.
  5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and combine gently until just incorporated.
  6. Fold in the diced strawberries carefully to avoid crushing them.
  7. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a round disk about 1-inch thick. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter.
  8. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart and brush tops with heavy cream.
  9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and fragrant.
  10. Allow to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving warm.

Notes

For healthier alternatives, use non-dairy cream, gluten-free flour, or substitute sugar with natural sweeteners.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 scone
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

FAQs About Strawberries and Cream Scones

Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day ahead, wrap it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before baking.

How do I know when my scones are done?

Look for a light golden-brown color on the tops and the edges. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the dough.

What can I do with leftover scones?

Leftover scones can be transformed into a delicious bread pudding or simply enjoyed with jam or cream. Just think of the possibilities!

Are there any variations I can try?

Indeed! You can experiment by adding other fruits like blueberries, orange zest, or even a pinch of cinnamon for a fun twist. Enjoy getting creative in the kitchen!

Conclusion

In just a few straightforward steps, you can enjoy these soft, scrumptious strawberries and cream scones that are sure to brighten anyone’s day. They are perfect for enjoying with coffee, tea, or as a snack while browsing your favorite blog. So, why not roll up your sleeves and bake a batch? Your taste buds will thank you!