Are you craving a treat that feels special, like it came from a bakery? Today, I’ll guide you through making delightful lemon blueberry scones right at home. These scones are fluffy, flavorful, and perfect for breakfast or a snack. With easy steps, fresh ingredients, and fun variations, you’ll impress everyone. Let’s dive into this simple recipe and bake something delicious together!
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
To make these lemon blueberry scones, gather these items:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
– 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze)
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap some ingredients if needed. For flour, try whole wheat flour. Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a different taste. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix milk with a bit of vinegar. For butter, you can use coconut oil or margarine. If you want a dairy-free option, try a plant-based milk and vegan butter.
Optional Add-ins
Feel free to customize your scones! You can add lemon zest for more zing. Try adding a teaspoon of poppy seeds for crunch. Want a sweeter touch? Include a handful of chopped white chocolate. You can also mix in nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra texture. These options let you play with flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps the scones not stick, making cleanup easier.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients well. This step keeps the scones light and fluffy.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of buttermilk, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. This mix adds moisture and flavor to your scones.
Forming and Cutting the Dough
Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula. Avoid overmixing; just blend until combined. Next, transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead it gently for about 1 minute. Shape it into a circle, about 1 inch thick. Cut the dough into 8 wedges. Place them on the baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.
Baking the Scones
Bake your scones for 15-18 minutes. Look for a light golden color on top. This means they are ready!
Preparing the Glaze
While your scones bake, make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Adjust the lemon juice to make the glaze thin or thick, as you prefer. Once the scones cool, drizzle the glaze over them for a sweet finish.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Texture
To get the right texture in your scones, use cold butter. Cold butter gives the scones a flaky, tender bite. Cut the butter into the dry mix until it looks like coarse crumbs. This keeps the butter pieces small. Do not overmix the dough. Mix just until combined for the best rise.
Ensuring Even Baking
Make sure your oven is preheated to 400°F (200°C). This helps the scones rise evenly. Space the scones about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to flow around them. If you want a golden top, brush the scones with buttermilk before baking.
Storing Leftover Scones
If you have leftover scones, store them in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly and freeze. They can last up to a month in the freezer. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes. This restores their warmth and texture.
Variations
Flavor Swaps (e.g. other fruits)
You can change the blueberries to other fruits. Try raspberries, cranberries, or blackberries. Each fruit gives a new taste to the scones. You may need to adjust the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness. Mixing in chocolate chips also adds a fun twist.
Gluten-Free Version
To make gluten-free scones, swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Make sure the blend has xanthan gum for good texture. You can use almond flour or coconut flour as well. Just adjust the liquids since these flours absorb moisture differently. The result is still a tasty treat!
Sweet vs. Savory Scones
You can make scones sweet or savory. For sweet scones, add more sugar or dried fruits. To create savory scones, use cheese, herbs, or cooked bacon. Herbs like rosemary or thyme work well. Adjust the sugar level or even leave it out for a tasty snack. This gives you many options for any meal!
Storage Info
Refrigerator Storage
You can store leftover lemon blueberry scones in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want them warm again, just reheat them in the oven.
Freezer Storage
To freeze your scones, wrap each one well in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat scones, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet. Heat for about 5-10 minutes. You can also microwave them for about 20-30 seconds. Enjoy them warm with a drizzle of glaze!
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. They add great flavor to scones. Just fold them in gently. If you use frozen berries, they may make your dough wet. You might need to adjust the baking time slightly. Keep an eye on them while baking.
How do I know when scones are done baking?
Scones are done when they turn golden brown on top. You can also tap the bottom. If it sounds hollow, they are ready. The edges should feel firm, but the center can be soft. Let them cool a little before you taste.
What is the difference between scones and biscuits?
Scones and biscuits are both baked goods, but they are different. Scones are often sweeter and denser. They usually contain eggs and cream. Biscuits are lighter and flakier. They are made with butter and buttermilk. The texture and flavor set them apart.
How should I serve lemon blueberry scones?
Serve lemon blueberry scones warm. Drizzle them with lemon glaze for extra flavor. You can add fresh blueberries and lemon zest on top. Enjoy them with tea or coffee for a delightful treat. They also make a great breakfast or snack option.
In this post, we covered everything about making delicious lemon blueberry scones. You learned about essential ingredients, fun substitutions, and tasty add-ins. I shared step-by-step instructions to guide you through baking. You also got tips on texture and storage. Lastly, we explored variations and answered common questions.
Enjoy making your scones and feel free to experiment. Happy baking!
