Are you ready to bake something sweet and delightful? My Cherry Chocolate Chip Scones are the perfect treat for breakfast or a snack. This easy recipe combines juicy cherries and rich chocolate in a flaky pastry that melts in your mouth. Follow my simple steps, and you’ll impress everyone with your baking skills. Let’s get started and enjoy some delicious scones together!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 egg wash (for brushing)
When making cherry chocolate chip scones, the main ingredients are simple and easy to find. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating a light and flaky scone. The flour gives structure, while sugar adds sweetness. The baking powder helps the scones rise. The butter is crucial; it creates that tender crumb we all love. Heavy cream adds richness, while the egg binds everything together. Don’t forget the cherries and chocolate chips; they bring joy in every bite!
Optional Ingredients
– Powdered sugar for dusting
– Whipped cream for serving
Optional ingredients can enhance your scones. Dusting with powdered sugar gives a lovely finish. Whipped cream also makes for a delightful topping. You can serve these scones warm, with a dollop of whipped cream. It adds a touch of elegance to your dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups of flour, 1/3 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This creates a solid base for your scones.
Combining Ingredients
– Add 1/2 cup of cold, cubed butter to the flour mix.
– Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend the butter. You want it to look like coarse crumbs.
– In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. This mix brings moisture and flavor.
Forming the Dough
– Pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together until just combined. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are okay!
– Fold in 1 cup of chopped cherries and 1/2 cup of chocolate chips. This adds sweetness and texture to the dough.
– Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead it gently a couple of times until it holds together.
– Pat the dough into a circle, about 1-inch thick. Cut it into 8 wedges and place them on the baking sheet.
Baking the Scones
– Brush the tops with an egg wash made from 1 egg whisked with 1 tablespoon water. This gives them a beautiful golden color.
– Bake the scones for 15-20 minutes. They should turn lightly golden on top.
– Let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before moving them to a wire rack. Enjoy them warm for the best taste!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Scones
To make the best cherry chocolate chip scones, focus on texture. You want them light and fluffy. Here are a few tips to help you achieve that perfect texture:
– Use cold butter: Chilled butter creates steam, helping the scones rise.
– Do not overmix: Gently fold the dough until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough scones.
– Add moisture wisely: Use heavy cream to keep scones moist without making them too wet.
When incorporating fruit, like cherries, consider these guidelines:
– Chop cherries evenly: Cut them into small pieces for even distribution.
– Use fresh or frozen: Both work well. If using frozen, do not thaw them first.
– Toss in flour: Lightly coat the cherries with flour before adding them to the dough. This prevents them from sinking.
Baking Tips
Baking temperature is key to perfect scones. I recommend preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat helps the scones rise quickly.
For baking time, aim for 15-20 minutes. Your scones should be lightly golden on top. If they look pale, leave them in for a few more minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry chocolate chip scones shine when served warm. Dust them with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. You can also add fresh cherries or a dollop of whipped cream on the side.
For drinks, try pairing your scones with:
– Coffee: The rich flavor balances the sweetness.
– Tea: A nice herbal tea enhances the fruit notes.
– Milk: Cold milk adds a creamy contrast.
Explore these serving ideas to make your scones even more delightful!
Variations
Flavor Variations
Scones are fun to mix up! You can try different fruits like blueberries or raspberries. These fruits add a fresh twist. If you love chocolate, you can swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark or white chocolate. Each type brings out new flavors. Experiment and find your favorite!
Dietary Adjustments
If you need dairy-free options, use almond or coconut milk instead of heavy cream. For the butter, try a dairy-free spread. To make these scones gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend. This way, everyone can enjoy them!
Presentation Variations
You can create mini scones for a fun twist. Just cut smaller shapes from the dough. They are great for parties! For a fancy touch, serve them on a tiered stand. You can also dust them with powdered sugar or add a dollop of whipped cream. This makes your scones look beautiful and inviting.
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To store your scones at room temperature, place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for about two days. You can also wrap them in plastic wrap. Avoid storing them in a humid place. If you want to enjoy them longer, think about freezing.
Long-term Storage
To freeze your scones, first, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They stay good for up to three months.
For reheating, take the scones out of the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature. You can warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This helps keep them soft and tasty. Enjoy your cherry chocolate chip scones anytime!
FAQs
Common Questions
How can I make my scones fluffier?
To make your scones fluffier, use cold butter. Cut it into small pieces. This keeps the butter from melting before baking. Also, don’t overmix the dough. Mix just until it comes together. This helps keep the scones light.
Can I use frozen cherries? Will it affect the recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first. This prevents extra moisture in your scones. They will taste just as good as fresh cherries.
What’s the difference between scones and biscuits?
Scones are sweeter and richer than biscuits. They often contain sugar, fruits, or chocolate. Biscuits are usually flaky and buttery, with less sweetness. Both are delicious but serve different purposes.
How to tell when the scones are done baking?
Look for a light golden color on top. You can also tap the bottom of a scone. If it sounds hollow, it’s done. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Troubleshooting
What to do if the dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour. Sprinkle it in slowly while mixing. Be careful not to add too much. You want a soft but manageable dough.
Solutions for dry scones
If your scones turn out dry, you may have added too much flour. Make sure to measure the flour properly next time. Adding a little cream or butter on top can help fix dry scones once baked.
In this post, we explored how to make delicious cherry chocolate chip scones. You learned about the main and optional ingredients, along with easy steps for preparation and baking. I shared tips for perfecting your scones and variations to try, like using other fruits or flavors. Remember, storing your scones correctly keeps them fresh. Now, you can enjoy warm, tasty scones with your favorite drink, impressing family and friends alike. Happy baking, and enjoy your delightful creation!
