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Get ready to enjoy the bright flavor of Lemon Blueberry Scones! These tasty treats are easy to make and perfect for breakfast or a snack. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can impress your friends and family in no time. Whether you’re a baking pro or a beginner, I’ll guide you through the process. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that combines zesty lemon and sweet blueberries!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Flavorful: These scones burst with the bright flavors of lemon and blueberries, making them a refreshing treat any time of day.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy brunch or a special afternoon tea, these scones are sure to impress your guests.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or add a glaze to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, if out of season)
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Extra sugar for sprinkling on top
These ingredients bring bright flavor and texture to the scones. The all-purpose flour provides a sturdy base, while the sugar adds sweetness. Baking powder helps them rise, and salt boosts flavor. Cold butter creates a flaky texture when mixed in. Fresh blueberries offer juicy bursts, and lemon zest gives a zesty kick. Cream, egg, and vanilla bind the dough and add richness. Lastly, lemon juice brightens the flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use several substitutes if you lack an ingredient. For flour, consider whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste. Coconut sugar can replace granulated sugar for a hint of caramel flavor. Baking soda can work instead of baking powder, just add an acid like vinegar too. If you don’t have unsalted butter, any butter can work, but reduce added salt. Frozen blueberries are fine, but fresh ones shine best. You can swap heavy cream with milk or a plant-based option for a lighter scone.
Nutritional Information
Each scone serves as a delightful treat. They contain about 220 calories, with 9 grams of fat and 30 grams of carbs. Each scone also has around 1 gram of fiber and 3 grams of protein. This makes them a tasty snack, but enjoy in moderation. If you want to make them healthier, use less sugar or substitute some butter with applesauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Overview
Making lemon blueberry scones is simple and fun. You will need just a few ingredients and about 40 minutes. Gather everything before you start. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps the scones from sticking.
Detailed Baking Steps
1. In a big bowl, whisk together:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
2. Next, add 1/2 cup cold, cubed unsalted butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until it looks like coarse crumbs.
3. Gently fold in 1 cup fresh blueberries and the zest of 1 lemon. Be careful not to squish the berries.
4. In another bowl, mix:
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
5. Pour the wet mix into the dry mix. Stir gently until just combined. It’s okay if the dough is a little sticky.
6. Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead it a couple of times, then shape it into a circle about 1-inch thick.
7. Cut the dough into wedges like a pizza. Place them on the baking sheet.
8. Brush the tops with a bit of cream and sprinkle extra sugar on top for a crunchy finish.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
10. Let the scones cool on the sheet for a few minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack.
Tips for Achieving Perfect Scones
– Use cold butter. This helps create flaky scones.
– Don’t overmix the dough. A few lumps are okay.
– If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them. This keeps the dough from turning blue.
– For a fun twist, serve warm with a drizzle of lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
These tips will help you make tasty lemon blueberry scones every time!
Tips & Tricks
Best Baking Practices
To bake perfect lemon blueberry scones, follow these key steps:
– Use cold butter: Cold butter makes the scones flaky. Cube it and keep it cold until mixing.
– Do not overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the scones light and airy.
– Chill the dough: If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend.
Flavor Enhancements
You can elevate your scones with these flavor tips:
– Add herbs: Try adding fresh rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.
– Use lemon glaze: Drizzle a lemon glaze for extra sweetness and zing. Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice for this.
– Mix in nuts: Chopped pecans or almonds add crunch and depth to the flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Watch out for these common errors:
– Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of baking powder and flour. Old ingredients can ruin your scones.
– Skipping the sugar on top: Sprinkling sugar on top gives a nice crunch. Don’t forget this step!
– Not checking the oven temperature: An oven thermometer helps ensure accurate baking. A too-hot oven can burn the scones.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can create delightful lemon blueberry scones that everyone will love!
Pro Tips
- Use Cold Butter: Ensure your butter is very cold to create flaky scones. You can even freeze it for a few minutes before using.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough scones, so it’s okay if some dry flour remains.
- Chill the Dough: For extra fluffy scones, chill the shaped dough in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before baking.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like nuts, different berries, or even a touch of almond extract for variety.
Variations
Add-ins and Enhancements
You can make lemon blueberry scones even more exciting. Try adding chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a crunchy texture. If you love chocolate, fold in some dark chocolate chips. For more flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. You can also replace blueberries with raspberries or strawberries for a fruity twist. Each change adds a unique taste to your scones.
Gluten-Free Options
If you need a gluten-free choice, use a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it has a binding agent, like xanthan gum, to help your scones hold together. You can also add a bit more baking powder to give them a nice rise. The taste will still be yummy, and you won’t miss the gluten.
Seasonal Flavor Variations
Seasonal flavors can change the whole vibe of your scones. In spring, try adding fresh strawberries and mint for a refreshing taste. In fall, use pumpkin spice and cranberries for a cozy feel. For winter, mix in orange zest and dried fruits for a warm, festive treat. These variations keep your scones fun and fitting for any time of year!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Scones
After enjoying your lemon blueberry scones, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you should place them in the fridge. They can last up to a week that way. Just remember to let them cool completely before sealing them in the container.
Reheating Instructions
To enjoy your leftover scones warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5 to 10 minutes. This method makes them warm and fresh again. You can also use a microwave. Place a scone on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it for 10 to 15 seconds. This works well but may make them a bit soft.
Freezing for Later Use
If you want to save your scones for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the scones cool fully. Then, wrap each scone in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped scones in a freezer bag or container. They can stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months. When you want one, just take it out and reheat it directly from the freezer.
FAQs
How do you know when scones are done baking?
You can tell scones are done by their color and texture. They should be golden brown on top. When you tap the bottom, it should sound hollow. The edges will feel firm to the touch. If they are soft and pale, they need more time. Typically, they bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Can I use frozen blueberries in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries! They work well in this recipe. Just be sure to add them straight from the freezer. Do not thaw them first. This helps keep the scones from turning blue. Frozen blueberries can add a nice burst of flavor too. They make this recipe easy any time of year.
What is the best way to serve lemon blueberry scones?
Serve lemon blueberry scones warm for the best taste. Drizzle a lemon glaze on top for extra sweetness. To make the glaze, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice. You can also add a slice of lemon on the side. This adds zest and looks great on the plate. Enjoy them with tea or coffee for a delightful treat!
In this post, I shared a complete guide to making scones. We explored key ingredients and helpful substitutions. You learned the steps to prepare, bake, and perfect your scones. We covered tips to enhance flavor and avoid common mistakes. Plus, I provided variations for every season and storage tips for leftovers.
Embrace these tips, and enjoy baking delicious scones your friends and family will love. Happy bakin
Lemon Bliss Blueberry Scones
Delicious scones bursting with fresh blueberries and a hint of lemon.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Total Time 40 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 200 kcal
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.33 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 zest lemon
- 0.25 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- to taste sugar for sprinkling on top
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add the cubed butter into the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gently fold in the blueberries and lemon zest, being careful not to crush the berries.
In a separate bowl, mix together the heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until well combined.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix; it’s okay if the dough is slightly sticky.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a couple of times, then shape it into a circle about 1-inch thick.
Cut the scones into wedges (like a pizza) and transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.
Brush the tops of the scones with a little extra cream and sprinkle sugar on top for a crunchy finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top.
Allow the scones to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
Serve warm, drizzled with a lemon glaze over the top, and a slice of lemon on the side for added zest appeal.
Keyword baking, blueberry, lemon, scones
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