Craving a sweet and tangy treat? Blueberry Lemon Scones are the answer! Packed with fresh berries and zesty lemon, these scones bring a burst of flavor to your breakfast or snack time. In this guide, I’ll share the simple steps and tips to bake these delightful treats. Get ready to impress your family and friends with warm, homemade scones that scream summer in every bite! Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet blueberries paired with the zesty lemon create a perfect balance that is both refreshing and indulgent.
- Easy to Make: This scone recipe is straightforward with minimal ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These scones are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy afternoon tea with friends.
- Freezable: You can easily freeze the unbaked scones and bake them fresh whenever you crave a warm treat!
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)
– Zest of 1 large lemon
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Extra sugar for sprinkling
When I make blueberry lemon scones, I gather all my ingredients first. This helps me stay organized. I use two cups of all-purpose flour. This flour gives the scones a nice structure. Next, I add a quarter cup of granulated sugar. This sugar adds just the right sweetness to balance the tangy lemon.
I use one tablespoon of baking powder to make the scones rise. A half teaspoon of salt enhances all the flavors. The cold, cubed unsalted butter is key. It creates a flaky texture. I always make sure the butter is cold for the best results.
Fresh blueberries are a must—one cup for bursts of flavor. If I use frozen blueberries, I thaw them first. The zest of one large lemon brightens the scones. It adds a fresh lemon flavor that pairs well with the blueberries.
For the wet ingredients, I use half a cup of heavy cream. This keeps the scones moist. I add one large egg for richness. One teaspoon of vanilla extract brings warmth to the flavor. A tablespoon of lemon juice gives a nice tang.
Finally, I sprinkle extra sugar on top before baking. It makes the scones shine and adds a little crunch. Each ingredient plays an important role in making the scones delightful.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for a good bake. While your oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This paper stops the scones from sticking. It also helps with easy cleanup later.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together well. This mix gives your scones a nice rise and balance of flavor.
Incorporating the Butter and Blueberries
Next, add 1/2 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry mix. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the butter into the flour mix. You want it to look like coarse crumbs. Gently fold in 1 cup of fresh blueberries and the zest of 1 large lemon. This adds a burst of fruity flavor and color.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. This mix brings moisture and richness to the dough.
Forming and Cutting the Dough
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix. Stir gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix. Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Shape it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut it into wedges or use a round cutter for uniform shapes. This helps with even baking.
Baking the Scones
Place the scones on your lined baking sheet, leaving space between them. Brush the tops with a bit of extra cream and sprinkle with sugar. This gives them a nice golden crust. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Once done, let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy your delightful blueberry lemon scones!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Scone Texture
To get a light and fluffy scone, cold butter is key. Use unsalted butter and keep it cold. This helps the scone rise well. Cut the butter into small pieces and mix it in quickly. You want the mix to look like coarse crumbs.
Avoid overmixing the dough. This can make your scones tough. Mix until just combined, and then stop. Let the mixture rest for a few minutes. This helps the scones become soft and tender.
Best Practices for Mixing Ingredients
Start by mixing the dry ingredients first. Whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. This makes sure everything blends evenly. When adding the blueberries and lemon zest, fold them in gently. This keeps the blueberries whole and intact.
When you mix in the wet ingredients, do it slowly. Pour the cream mixture into the dry mix bit by bit. Use a spatula to fold them together. This way, you keep the air in the dough, which is important for the rise.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation Tips
Serve the scones warm for the best taste. You can drizzle them with a simple lemon glaze. Just mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth. This adds a sweet touch.
For a nice look, place fresh blueberries around the scones on the plate. You can also use a light dusting of extra sugar on top. This gives a sweet crunch. Enjoy your lovely blueberry lemon scones with tea or coffee!
Pro Tips
- Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream are very cold to achieve a flaky texture in your scones.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough scones.
- Experiment with Zest: Feel free to add more lemon zest for a bolder flavor or mix in other citrus zests for variety.
- Brush with Cream: Brushing the tops with cream before baking gives the scones a beautiful golden-brown color.
Variations
Alternate Fruits to Use
You can swap blueberries for many fruits. Raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries work well. Each fruit adds its own flavor and sweetness. Try chopped peaches or apples for a twist. Just remember to adjust the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness.
Adding Spices or Nuts
Adding spices or nuts can change the flavor a lot. Consider mixing in cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. You can also add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch. These additions bring new textures and tastes to your scones.
Lemon Glaze for Extra Flavor
A lemon glaze makes the scones even better. To make it, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice. Drizzle it over warm scones for a bright finish. This sweet and tangy touch enhances the lemon flavor in the scones. It makes them look lovely too!
Storage Info
How to Store Scones for Freshness
To keep your blueberry lemon scones fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers. This keeps them soft and moist. If you store them at room temperature, they stay fresh for about two days. For longer storage, consider freezing.
Freezing Unbaked or Baked Scones
You can freeze both unbaked and baked scones. To freeze unbaked scones, shape your dough into wedges or rounds. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. For baked scones, let them cool completely. Wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. They will stay fresh for about two months.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat baked scones, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes until warm. You can also use a microwave. Heat each scone for about 15-20 seconds. This method is faster but may not keep them as crisp. Enjoy your scones warm for the best taste!
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries! Just make sure to thaw them first. Drain any extra juice to keep your scones from getting soggy. Frozen berries can work well and still taste great in your scones.
How can I tell when the scones are fully baked?
You can tell scones are done by their color. They should be golden brown on top. You can also tap the bottom; it should sound hollow. If you see a nice golden hue, they are ready to come out.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use milk with a bit of butter. Mix 1/2 cup of milk with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. This will give a similar richness to your scones.
How long do these scones stay fresh?
These scones taste best fresh, but they can last up to 2 days at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container to keep them moist. For longer freshness, you can freeze them.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just cut and bake as usual.
You now have a complete guide to making delicious blueberry scones. From mixing the perfect ingredients to baking tips, this post covers it all. Remember, the key is in your mixing and baking. Don’t be afraid to try different fruits or add spices for a fun twist. Store them properly for lasting freshness, and enjoy them warm. Baking scones is easy and rewarding. With these steps, you can impress your friends and family. Happy bakin
