Introduction
Blueberry scones are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or as a snack. With a flaky texture and bursting with juicy blueberries, these scones are a wonderful way to start your day or enjoy with a cup of tea. This recipe from Love and Lemons will guide you through making these delicious scones at home.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
¼ cup cane sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon sea salt
½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), frozen
1½ cups blueberries
½ cup cold buttermilk, plus more for brushing
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coarse sugar, for sprinkling (optional)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
18 to 27 minutes
Total Time
Approximately 45 minutes
Yield
8 scones
Following these steps, you’ll be on your way to enjoying warm, fresh blueberry scones that are sure to impress!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Incorporate Butter
Grate the frozen butter using the large holes of a box grater. Add the grated butter to the flour mixture and toss to coat. Use your hands to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles a coarse meal.
Add Blueberries
Gently fold the blueberries into the flour mixture.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract.
Form the Dough
Pour the wet ingredients over the flour mixture. Use a spatula to mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead gently with your hands to incorporate any remaining dry flour. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it’s sticky, add a bit more flour; if it’s dry, add a little more buttermilk.
Shape the Scones
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and form it into a 7- to 8-inch disk about 1 inch thick. Slice into 8 equal wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Chill the Scones
Freeze the scones for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Bake
Remove the scones from the freezer, brush with buttermilk, and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired. Bake for 18 to 27 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Cool and Serve
Transfer the scones to a wire rack to cool. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Buttermilk Substitution
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute with heavy cream, full-fat coconut milk, or a scant ½ cup milk mixed with ½ tablespoon lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to thicken before using.
Cook Techniques
Preparing the Baking Sheet
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl for an even distribution of ingredients.
Incorporating Butter
Grate frozen butter into the flour mixture and work it in until it resembles coarse meal for a flaky texture in the scones.
Adding Blueberries
Gently fold in the blueberries to avoid crushing them, maintaining their shape and preventing color bleeding.
Combining Wet Ingredients
Whisk buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl to ensure even blending.
Forming the Dough
Mix the wet ingredients into the dry until a shaggy dough forms, then gently knead to incorporate any dry flour without overworking.
Shaping the Scones
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and shape it into a disk, slicing it into wedges for uniform baking.
Chilling the Scones
Freeze the shaped scones briefly before baking to firm up the butter, which helps create a flaky texture.
Baking
Brush with buttermilk and sprinkle with coarse sugar before baking for a golden finish and added sweetness.
Cooling and Serving
Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack to maintain their texture and serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
FAQ
Can I use fresh blueberries instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh blueberries can be used, ensuring they are rinsed and dried thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can use heavy cream, full-fat coconut milk, or a milk and lemon juice mixture as a substitute.
How can I store leftover scones?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze the scones after baking?
Yes, baked scones can be frozen. Wrap them individually and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
What variations can I try with this scone recipe?
Feel free to experiment with different fruits, nuts, or spices to create unique flavor combinations.
Conclusion
The blueberry scones are a delightful treat, bursting with juicy berries and a flaky texture that makes them perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or at room temperature, these scones are sure to be a hit. The combination of simple ingredients and easy preparation makes them a great addition to your baking repertoire.
Variations with Other Berries
Try substituting blueberries with raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries for a different fruity twist. Each berry brings its unique flavor and sweetness to the scone.
Citrus-Infused Scones
Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor. The zest complements the sweetness of the berries beautifully.
Nuts and Seeds Enhancement
Incorporate chopped nuts such as almonds or walnuts, or sprinkle in some chia or flax seeds for added texture and nutrition.
Herb-Infused Scones
Experiment with savory flavors by adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. The combination of herbs with blueberries can create a unique and sophisticated flavor profile.
Chocolate Chip Variation
For a decadent treat, fold in some chocolate chips alongside the blueberries for a sweet contrast.
Glazed Scones
Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and buttermilk over the cooled scones for an extra touch of sweetness and decoration.
Vegan Options
Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of the egg for a vegan-friendly version. Use plant-based milk instead of buttermilk.
Mini Scones for Bite-Sized Treats
Shape the dough into smaller discs for mini scones, perfect for tea parties or brunch gatherings. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
