Are you ready for a tasty treat that’s both flavorful and flaky? In this blog post, I’ll guide you through making cherry almond scones. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll impress friends and family in no time. Whether you’re a baking newbie or an expert, my tips will help you avoid common mistakes and whip up perfect scones. Let’s dive into the delicious world of cherry almond scones!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet and tart cherries paired with the nutty almond flavor create a delightful taste experience that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Make: This scone recipe is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers alike.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a fancy tea party, these scones fit right in and impress every time.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding different fruits or nuts, making it versatile for any palate.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Cherry Almond Scones
To make Cherry Almond Scones, you need these key ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 1/2 cup fresh cherries, pitted and coarsely chopped
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
These ingredients work together to create a rich, nutty flavor. The fresh cherries add a juicy burst, while almond flour gives a unique texture.
Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor
You can add extra flavor with these optional ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips
These additions can make your scones even more special. Vanilla and cinnamon can enhance the overall flavor, while chocolate chips offer a sweet twist.
Substitutions and Dietary Alternatives
If you have dietary needs, consider these substitutions:
– Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
– Swap almond flour with oat flour for a nut-free option.
– Use coconut cream if you want a dairy-free version.
These alternatives keep the scones delicious while meeting your dietary needs. Feel free to experiment and find what works best for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a nice bake. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps the scones come off easily later. In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients until they blend well.
Now, add the chilled, cubed butter into the flour mix. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work in the butter. Keep mixing until it looks like coarse crumbs. You want some pea-sized butter pieces for a flaky texture. Next, fold in the chopped fresh cherries and sliced almonds. Make sure they spread evenly in the dough. This gives each bite a lovely burst of flavor.
In another bowl, mix the heavy cream and almond extract. Pour this mixture into the flour mix slowly. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or the scones will not be as light and fluffy.
Forming and Cutting the Scones
Lightly flour your work surface. Turn the dough out onto it, kneading gently just until it comes together. Avoid handling the dough too much to keep it tender. Shape the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife to cut the circle into eight equal wedges.
Carefully place these wedges on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg. This will give the scones a lovely golden finish when they bake.
Baking to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake the scones for 15 to 20 minutes. They should be golden brown and have slightly crisp edges. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. Once they are done, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This helps maintain their delightful texture. Enjoy the warm, flaky treats!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Flakiness in Scones
To make your cherry almond scones flaky, use cold butter. Cold butter creates pockets of steam when baking. This steam helps the scones rise and stay airy. Cut the butter into small cubes and work it quickly into the flour. Stop when you see pea-sized pieces of butter. This will help keep the scones light.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overmixing the dough. Overmixing leads to tough scones. Mix until just combined. Another mistake is not chilling your butter. Always keep your butter cold until it goes into the dough. Lastly, don’t skip the egg wash. It gives your scones a lovely golden color.
Best Practices for Mixing and Kneading
When mixing, use a gentle hand. You want to fold in the cherries and almonds carefully. Too much handling will make the dough tough. Knead just enough to bring the dough together. Aim for about 5 to 6 turns on a lightly floured surface. This keeps your scones tender and fluffy.
Pro Tips
- Chill Your Butter: Ensure your butter is very cold when added to the flour mixture. This helps create a flaky texture in the scones.
- Use Fresh Cherries: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, ripe cherries rather than frozen ones. They will provide a burst of juiciness.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until it comes together. Overmixing can lead to tough scones, which you want to avoid for that light and fluffy texture.
- Brush with Egg Wash: For a beautiful golden finish, don’t skip brushing the scones with a beaten egg before baking. It enhances the appearance and adds a slight sheen.
Variations
Seasonal Fruit Additions
You can switch up the cherries with other fruits. Fresh blueberries, raspberries, or peaches work well. Each fruit adds its own taste and charm. Blueberries bring sweetness, while peaches add a lovely summer vibe. Just make sure to chop larger fruits into small pieces for even mixing.
Flavor Enhancements (Citrus Zest, Spices)
Adding zest can brighten your scones. A teaspoon of lemon or orange zest gives a fresh twist. You can also try warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Spice up your scones by mixing in 1/2 teaspoon of your chosen spice. These flavors will make each bite exciting and new.
Gluten-Free Adaptations
If you need a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum for better texture. Almond flour is already gluten-free, so keep that in your recipe. This way, you can enjoy the same great taste and flakiness without gluten.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
To keep your Cherry Almond Scones fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They stay good for up to three days at room temperature. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap or foil.
Freezing Instructions for Scones
If you want to save some scones for later, freezing works great. Allow the scones to cool completely. Then, wrap each scone in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped scones in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat them, you can defrost them overnight in the fridge.
How to Reheat Scones for Freshness
To enjoy your scones warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the scones and place them on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes. This method keeps them flaky and tasty. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave a scone for about 15 seconds. Just know that it may not be as crisp as oven reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just thaw them first and drain any extra juice. This helps keep the scones from becoming soggy. The taste remains great, and you still get that fruity burst!
What should I serve with Cherry Almond Scones?
These scones are yummy on their own. You can also serve them with clotted cream or jam. A cup of tea or coffee pairs well too. Add some fresh fruit or a light salad for a full meal.
What is the best way to keep scones fresh?
To keep scones fresh, store them in an airtight container. This keeps them from drying out. You can also use a cookie jar. If you want them to last longer, freeze them.
How do I know when the scones are done baking?
Check the scones after 15 minutes. They should be golden brown on top. You can also poke one with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your scones are ready!
You now understand how to make Cherry Almond Scones. We discussed key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and handy tips. You learned about popular variations and best practices for storage. Avoiding common mistakes will lead to great results. These scones are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your baking journey, and share these delicious treats with family and friends. Happy bakin
