Welcome to the world of baking with my Cherry Almond Scones Perfectly Flaky Delight! These scones are a blend of sweet cherries and nutty almonds, making them a tasty treat for breakfast or snacks. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create flaky, flavorful scones in no time. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful recipe! Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: These scones come together quickly, making them perfect for a last-minute treat or breakfast option.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The pairing of sweet cherries and nutty almonds creates a delightful flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily switch out the fruit or nuts based on what you have on hand, allowing for endless variations.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it's a cozy brunch, a picnic, or a holiday gathering, these scones are sure to impress.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cherries (or frozen)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- Extra sugar for sprinkling
To make my cherry almond scones, I gather simple ingredients that work wonders together. The all-purpose flour gives a great base. I use granulated sugar for sweetness and baking powder for that perfect rise. Salt enhances the flavors, while cold unsalted butter adds flakiness. I love fresh cherries, but frozen ones work too. Sliced almonds bring a nice crunch.
For the wet ingredients, heavy cream adds richness. The large egg binds it all together. Both vanilla and almond extracts create a lovely aroma. Lastly, I sprinkle extra sugar on top for a sweet finish. Each ingredient plays a key role, making these scones a delightful treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps the scones rise and bake evenly.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mixing these well ensures a good rise and flavor.
Incorporate Butter
Next, add 1/4 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter into the flour mix. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter in until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is key for flaky scones.
Add Cherries and Almonds
Now, gently fold in 1/2 cup of chopped fresh cherries and 1/4 cup of sliced almonds. Make sure they are evenly mixed in for a burst of flavor in every bite.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract. Whisking these together adds moisture and richness to the dough.
Mix Dough
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Avoid over-mixing. The dough should feel slightly sticky but not too wet.
Shape and Cut Scones
Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead it gently a few times until it comes together. Pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut into 8 wedges. This shapes your scones nicely.
Bake Scones
Place the scones on a baking sheet, spaced apart. Sprinkle a little extra sugar on top for a sweet touch. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until they are lightly golden brown. Watch them closely for that perfect color.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Texture
To get the best texture, avoid overworking the dough. When you mix the wet and dry ingredients, do so gently. The goal is to combine them just enough. Overmixing can make the scones tough. When the dough feels a bit sticky, you know you're on the right track.
Enhancing Flavor
Adding a sprinkle of extra sugar on top before baking can boost the flavor. This little touch adds sweetness and a lovely crunch. It makes each bite more delightful. Plus, the sugar creates a beautiful golden crust as the scones bake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the scones warm for the best taste. A drizzle of honey or a dollop of clotted cream makes them even better. I love adding whole cherries and almond slices on the side. It makes for a pretty presentation and a delicious treat!
Pro Tips
- Use Chilled Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream are cold, as this helps create flaky layers in your scones.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep the scones tender.
- Customizable Add-ins: Feel free to substitute the cherries and almonds with other fruits and nuts like blueberries or pecans for variety.
- Check for Doneness: The scones should be lightly golden on top; keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Variations
Seasonal Fruit Options
You can change the fruit in your scones. Blueberries and raspberries work great. They add unique flavors and colors. Just swap them for the cherries. This keeps your scones fresh and fun. You can use fresh fruit or frozen if needed.
Nut Alternatives
Try different nuts for new tastes. If you want a change from almonds, use walnuts or pecans. They add crunch and flavor to your scones. Just chop them up and mix them in like you do with almonds. This switch keeps things exciting.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour blends. They can replace all-purpose flour in the recipe. Look for blends that include rice flour or almond flour. This way, everyone can enjoy your tasty scones. Just make sure to check the blend's instructions for best results.
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Scones
To store your leftover scones, use an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for a few days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each scone in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They will stay tasty for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, just thaw them overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your scones, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes. This helps restore their flaky texture. If you're in a hurry, use the microwave. Heat each scone for 15 to 20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, or they might become tough. Enjoy your warm, delicious scones!
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, frozen cherries work well for this recipe. They add great flavor and moisture. Just make sure to chop them before adding to the dough. Frozen cherries can even make your scones more convenient. You can enjoy cherry almond scones anytime of the year!
How can I tell when the scones are done?
Look for a lightly golden brown color on top. The scones should feel firm when you gently touch them. You can also insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your scones are ready. This simple test helps ensure you get perfect scones every time.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, prepare the dough, then refrigerate before baking. This helps the flavors blend well. You can store the dough for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just cut and bake as usual. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh scones without much fuss.
What should I serve with scones?
Consider serving with jams, clotted cream, or flavored butter. These spreads complement the cherry almond flavor. You can also try honey for a sweet touch. Serving scones with these toppings makes for a delightful treat at breakfast or tea time.
This blog shared a simple scone recipe with fresh cherries and almonds. You learned how to combine ingredients for a tasty treat. We covered key steps from preparation to baking. Use the tips to get the best texture and flavor.
In the end, enjoy experimenting with different fruits and nuts. These scones are perfect for breakfast or a snack. Remember to store leftovers for later enjoyment. Happy baking!
