Are you craving a delicious treat that's both satisfying and good for you? Look no further! These almond flour scones are the perfect answer. Forget those heavy, buttery scones of the past; this recipe delivers a delightful lightness and a subtle nutty flavor that's simply irresistible. They're surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick breakfast, afternoon tea, or even a healthy dessert. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet elegant recipe. This healthy meal is also a great quick dinner idea if you're short on time.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/4 cup dried cranberries, blueberries, or chocolate chips
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step ensures even baking and easy cleanup.
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Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure all the dry ingredients are thoroughly combined for even distribution.
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Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry blender or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Avoid overmixing; some pea-sized pieces of butter are ideal.
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Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and vanilla extract.
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Combine: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing will result in tough scones.
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Add Mix-ins (Optional): If using, gently fold in your desired mix-ins, such as dried cranberries, blueberries, or chocolate chips.
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Shape & Bake: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick circle. Use a sharp knife or a biscuit cutter to cut the dough into 8 wedges. Place the scones onto the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are lightly golden brown.
Tips for Success:
- Cold Butter is Key: Using cold butter is crucial for achieving that flaky texture.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough will lead to tough scones. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Let them Cool: Allow the scones to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
Variations:
- Lemon Poppy Seed Scones: Add the zest of one lemon and 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds to the dough.
- Cinnamon Sugar Scones: Sprinkle the tops of the scones with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before baking.
- Savory Scones: Omit the sugar and add herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or chives for a savory twist.
Nutritional Information (per scone, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 2-3g
These values can vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used.
These almond flour scones are a delightful addition to any meal or snack time. Enjoy the ease of homemade cooking and the delicious taste of these healthy and satisfying treats. They're perfect for a quick breakfast, a delightful afternoon tea, or a guilt-free dessert. Experiment with different mix-ins and flavors to create your own unique variations. Happy baking!