Are you craving a delightful treat that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further than these homemade cherry almond scones! This recipe delivers the perfect blend of sweet cherries and crunchy almonds, encased in a buttery, flaky scone that's sure to become a new favorite. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is perfect for whipping up a quick and easy breakfast or afternoon snack. These scones are also a great addition to any brunch spread, impressing your guests with minimal effort. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade baking with this simple yet satisfying recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour (for extra almond flavor)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved (if frozen, do not thaw)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Ensure all the dry ingredients are well combined for even baking.
Step 2: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Avoid overmixing; pea-sized pieces of butter are ideal. This step is crucial for creating those signature flaky layers in your scones.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and vanilla extract. This simple step helps create a consistent batter.
Step 4: Bring it Together
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough scones.
Step 5: Fold in the Cherries and Almonds
Gently fold in the pitted cherries and sliced almonds. Make sure the fruit and nuts are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick circle. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to cut the circle into 8 wedges. Place the scones onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let the scones cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm with your favorite jam, clotted cream, or simply enjoy them on their own.
Tips for the Best Cherry Almond Scones:
- Use cold ingredients: Cold butter is essential for creating flaky scones.
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing will result in tough scones.
- Bake at the correct temperature: Baking at the right temperature ensures even cooking and a beautiful golden brown color.
- Let the scones cool slightly before serving: This allows them to set and prevents them from crumbling.
Variations:
- Lemon Cherry Almond Scones: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a zesty twist.
- Chocolate Cherry Almond Scones: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chocolate chips along with the cherries and almonds.
- Glazed Scones: Brush the baked scones with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice.
Nutritional Information (per scone, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250 Fat: 12g Carbohydrates: 30g Sugar: 8g Protein: 4g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This recipe provides a delicious and easy way to enjoy a homemade treat. The combination of sweet cherries and crunchy almonds makes these scones irresistible. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast, a delightful afternoon snack, or a special addition to your brunch menu, these cherry almond scones are sure to be a hit! Enjoy the process and the delicious results!