Ridiculously Easy Lemon Raspberry Scones

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Introduction:

Indulge in a delightful treat with our Ridiculously Easy Lemon Raspberry Scones recipe. Bursting with vibrant flavors of zesty lemon and juicy raspberries, these scones are a perfect balance of tangy and sweet. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast option, a delightful afternoon snack, or a charming addition to your brunch table, these scones are sure to impress. Join us as we guide you through the simple steps to create these irresistible scones that will have you coming back for more.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 6 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Zest of 1 medium-size lemon
  • ½ cup fresh raspberries

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
  2. Chill 1 cup heavy cream in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Melt 8 tablespoons of butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Set aside to cool.
  4. In a medium-size bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, lemon zest, and salt.
  5. Combine chilled heavy cream with melted butter, stirring until butter forms small clumps.
  6. Add the butter/cream mixture to dry ingredients, stirring until flour is incorporated.
  7. Break raspberries in half and sprinkle them over the batter, gently mixing.
  8. Scoop mounds of batter onto prepared pan and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
  9. Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown. Let cool on a wire rack.
  10. Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
  11. Calories: 282 kcal | Servings: 12

Serving Tips:

  1. Fresh from the Oven: Lemon Raspberry Scones are best enjoyed warm from the oven. Serve them alongside your favorite hot beverage such as tea or coffee for a cozy and comforting treat.
  2. Accompaniments: Enhance the scone-eating experience by serving them with a variety of accompaniments. Classic options include clotted cream, lemon curd, raspberry jam, or whipped cream. Spread a generous dollop of your favorite topping on each scone before taking a bite for an extra burst of flavor.
  3. Garnish with Fresh Fruit: For an elegant presentation, garnish the serving platter with fresh raspberries and lemon slices. The vibrant colors of the fruit add a pop of freshness and make the scones even more enticing.
  4. Tea Time Treat: Lemon Raspberry Scones are perfect for afternoon tea gatherings or brunch parties. Arrange them on a tiered serving stand alongside other tea-time treats like sandwiches, pastries, and petit fours for a delightful spread.
  5. Indulge Anytime: Don’t limit yourself to enjoying Lemon Raspberry Scones only at breakfast or tea time. These versatile treats make a delicious snack any time of day. Pack them in a lunchbox, enjoy them as a mid-morning pick-me-up, or savor them as a dessert after dinner.

Storage Tips:

  1. Room Temperature: If you plan to enjoy the scones within a day or two, store them at room temperature in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents them from drying out.
  2. Reheating: If the scones have become slightly stale, you can freshen them up by reheating them in the oven or toaster oven. Place them on a baking sheet and warm them at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes until heated through. This also helps revive their crisp exterior.
  3. Freezing: Lemon Raspberry Scones can be frozen for longer-term storage. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen scones to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
  4. Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen scones, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or on the counter for a few hours. Once thawed, you can reheat them in the oven as described above or enjoy them at room temperature.
  5. Avoid Refrigeration: Avoid storing scones in the refrigerator, as the cold temperature can dry them out and affect their texture. Room temperature storage is best for maintaining their flavor and texture.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh ones for the scones? Yes, you can use frozen raspberries in this recipe. However, keep in mind that frozen raspberries may release more moisture during baking, potentially affecting the texture of the scones. Thaw and drain the frozen raspberries before adding them to the dough, and gently fold them in to minimize excess moisture.
  2. Can I substitute lemon extract for the lemon zest? While lemon extract can be used as a substitute for lemon zest, it may alter the flavor profile of the scones slightly. Lemon zest provides a fresh, citrusy flavor and aroma, whereas lemon extract tends to be more concentrated and may have a stronger flavor. If using lemon extract, start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
  3. Can I make these scones ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the scone dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Simply shape the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the dough from the refrigerator, cut it into wedges, and proceed with the baking instructions. Alternatively, you can freeze the shaped scones and bake them straight from the freezer, adjusting the baking time as needed.
  4. Can I omit the sugar in the recipe or reduce the amount for a less sweet scone? The sugar in the recipe not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the texture and tenderness of the scones. While you can reduce the amount of sugar if desired, keep in mind that it may affect the overall flavor and texture of the scones. Alternatively, you can experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, adjusting the quantities to suit your taste preferences.
  5. How do I prevent the scones from spreading too much during baking? To prevent the scones from spreading too much, it’s important to work with cold ingredients and handle the dough gently. Make sure the butter and heavy cream are cold, and avoid overmixing the dough, which can lead to tough scones. Additionally, chilling the shaped scones in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before baking can help them retain their shape and rise properly in the oven.

Conclusion:

With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of these Ridiculously Easy Lemon Raspberry Scones to enjoy any time of day. Whether served warm from the oven with a dollop of clotted cream and a drizzle of honey, or enjoyed as a grab-and-go breakfast on busy mornings, these scones are sure to delight your taste buds with their bright and tangy flavor. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor every buttery, fruity bite of these delightful scones.

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