Strawberry Scones

Introduction:
These delightful Strawberry Scones are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. Bursting with juicy strawberries and lightly sweetened, they offer a flaky texture and a tender crumb that’s sure to please. Whether enjoyed with a dollop of clotted cream or a simple glaze, these scones make any occasion feel special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Simple Ingredients: Uses common kitchen staples for easy preparation.
• Quick and Easy: Requires minimal hands-on time and is straightforward to make.
• Perfectly Flaky: Achieves that classic scone texture with just the right amount of sweetness.
• Customizable: Can be modified with different fruits or add-ins based on your preference.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 3/4 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
• 1/2 cup whole milk (plus extra for brushing)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk or lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

1. Cut in the Butter:

• Add the cold butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

1. Add the Strawberries:

• Gently fold in the chopped strawberries, being careful not to overmix.

1. Mix Wet Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract.

1. Combine and Form Dough:

• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. The dough will be slightly sticky.

1. Shape the Scones:

• Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Cut the dough into 8-10 squares or triangles.

1. Bake:

• Transfer the scones to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with a little milk for a golden finish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

1. Cool and Glaze (Optional):

• Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack. If desired, mix the powdered sugar with milk or lemon juice to make a glaze and drizzle over the cooled scones.

Tips for Success:

• Butter: Make sure the butter is very cold to ensure a flaky texture.
• Chopping Strawberries: Chop the strawberries into small, even pieces to distribute them throughout the dough.
• Dough Handling: Avoid overworking the dough to keep the scones tender.

Recipe Variations:

• Berry Blend: Substitute strawberries with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
• Add-Ins: Mix in a handful of chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
• Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve warm with a pat of butter or a dollop of jam.
• Pair with tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked scones on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Reheating: Reheat scones in a warm oven (350°F/175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their fresh-baked texture.

Special Equipment:

• Pastry Cutter: For cutting in the butter (optional, can use fingers or a fork).
• Parchment Paper: For lining the baking sheet.

FAQ:

• Can I use frozen strawberries?
  Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them to prevent excess moisture in the dough.
• Can I make these scones ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare and freeze them before baking, or bake them in advance and store them at room temperature.
• Can I use a different type of milk?
  Yes, you can use any milk substitute, such as almond milk or buttermilk.

Preparation Time:

• 15 minutes for prepping the ingredients and mixing the dough.

Cook Time:

• 15-20 minutes for baking the scones.

Total Time:

• 30-35 minutes (including prep and bake time).

Nutrition Information (per scone, assuming 8 scones):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 10g

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Closing Notes:
Have you made these Strawberry Scones? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your scone creations and check back for more delicious recipes.