These strawberry and cream scones are a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon tea. With the sweetness of fresh strawberries and the richness of cream, they offer a perfect balance of flavor and texture. The scones are light, flaky, and packed with juicy strawberry pieces, making them a true crowd-pleaser. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a dollop of whipped cream, these scones are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (240 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (65 grams) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons (85 grams) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (150 grams) fresh strawberries, diced
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the heavy cream, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Gently fold in the diced strawberries.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together.
- Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick and cut it into 8 wedges.
- Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow the scones to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Berries: Replace the strawberries with other berries such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a different flavor.
- Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
- Glazed: Drizzle a simple glaze (powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla) over the scones after baking for added sweetness and shine.
- Nuts: Add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the dough for a crunchy texture.
- Vegan Version: Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based milk and cream for a vegan-friendly option.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked scones by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen for 25-30 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
- Reheating: Reheat scones in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their freshness and crispness.
10 FAQs
- Can I make these scones ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake them the next day as directed.
- Can I use frozen strawberries? Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture, but if you use frozen strawberries, make sure they are thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
- Can I make these scones without baking powder? Baking powder is essential for giving the scones their rise and light texture. It is not recommended to skip this ingredient.
- How can I make my scones more flaky? Make sure the butter is cold and cut it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The less you handle the dough, the flakier your scones will be.
- Can I substitute the cream with milk? Heavy cream is recommended for a rich, tender texture, but you can use milk as a substitute if needed. The scones may be slightly less rich but still delicious.
- How do I know when the scones are done? The scones are done when they are golden brown on top and firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick into the center to check for doneness—if it comes out clean, they’re ready.
- Can I use a different type of flour? You can use whole wheat flour for a slightly denser texture, or gluten-free flour if needed. Be sure to adjust the liquid amounts as gluten-free flour can absorb more moisture.
- How should I serve these scones? Scones are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with clotted cream, jam, or even a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- How long do scones last? Scones are best eaten fresh, but they can be stored for up to 2 days at room temperature. If stored properly, they last up to a week in the fridge.
- Can I freeze the scones? Yes, you can freeze both unbaked and baked scones. For unbaked scones, freeze them on a baking sheet and then store in a zip-top bag. For baked scones, freeze them and reheat in the oven when needed.
Conclusion
These strawberry and cream scones are an easy yet indulgent treat that brings a bit of sweetness to any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy freshly baked scones in just about 35 minutes. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or try one of the variations, these scones are sure to impress. Perfect for pairing with tea, coffee, or just as a quick snack, they will become a go-to recipe in your baking rotation.