Craving a sweet and nutty treat? Cherry Almond Scones are here to satisfy you! These scones blend fresh cherries with a hint of almond for a rich flavor. You won’t believe how easy they are to make. In this guide, I’ll walk you through each step, share tips for the perfect texture, and offer fun variations. Let’s dive into baking these delightful scones together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweetness of fresh cherries paired with the nutty essence of almond extract creates a delightful flavor profile that is irresistible.
- Easy to Make: This scone recipe is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for both baking novices and experienced cooks looking for a simple treat.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it's a breakfast treat, a snack with tea, or a delightful addition to a brunch spread, these scones fit any occasion beautifully.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding other fruits or nuts to suit your personal taste, making it a versatile choice for your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
When making Cherry Almond Scones, you need simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
- 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
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, plus extra for brushing
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for optional glaze)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for optional glaze)
Each ingredient plays an important role. The flour gives the scones structure. Sugar adds sweetness and helps with browning. Baking powder helps them rise. Salt enhances flavor. Butter keeps them flaky while heavy cream adds richness. The egg binds everything together. Almond extract gives a nice nutty flavor. Fresh cherries add sweetness and texture. Sliced almonds provide crunch. The glaze is optional but offers a sweet finish.
Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. Choose ripe cherries for the best flavor. You can also adapt this recipe with different fruits or flavors. Get creative and enjoy the process!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Mix until everything is well combined.
Incorporating the Butter
- Add 1/2 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mix.
- Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix.
- Keep mixing until it looks like coarse crumbs.
Combining Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- Make sure this mix is smooth and well blended.
Forming the Dough
- Pour the wet mix into the dry mix.
- Gently fold the ingredients until just combined.
- Carefully fold in:
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
- Pat it into a disc about 1-inch thick.
Cutting and Baking the Scones
- Cut the dough into 8 wedges or use a round cutter.
- Place the scones on your baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with a bit of heavy cream for a golden crust.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Scone Texture
To get the right scone texture, mixing is key. Start by whisking the dry ingredients well. This helps blend the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Next, when you add the cold butter, use your fingers or a pastry cutter. Mix until it looks like coarse crumbs. Avoid overmixing the dough when adding wet ingredients. Overmixing makes scones tough.
When it comes to the cherries, handle them gently. If you crush them, the scones may turn pink. I like to fold the cherries in last. This way, they keep their shape.
Enhancing Flavor
To boost flavor, consider adding lemon zest or vanilla extract. Both pair well with cherries and almonds. For a fun twist, you can also try cardamom or nutmeg.
When serving, these scones go great with tea or coffee. I love them with a hot cup of Earl Grey. The floral notes of the tea match perfectly with the almond flavor.
Optional Glaze Tips
For a sweet touch, you can make a simple glaze. Mix powdered sugar with milk until smooth. The glaze adds a nice shine and sweetness.
After baking, let the scones cool for a bit. Then, drizzle the glaze on top. It’s best to do this while the scones are warm. This helps the glaze soak in just right.
Pro Tips
- Use Cold Butter: Make sure your butter is very cold; this helps create a flaky texture in your scones.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the dough until just combined to prevent tough scones.
- Chill the Dough: If you have time, chill the shaped scones for 15 minutes before baking for extra height.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding lemon zest or vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.
Variations
Substitutes for Ingredients
You can swap ingredients to make your scones different. For the cherries, try using other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even diced apples. Each fruit brings its own flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. You can also use vegan butter for a dairy-free scone.
Different Flavor Combos
Adding citrus can brighten your scones. Try mixing in some lemon or orange zest for a fresh taste. You can also switch nuts. Instead of almonds, use walnuts or pecans for a different crunch. Each nut gives a unique twist to the flavor profile.
Sweet versus Savory Scones
Savory scones are a fun twist! For example, try adding cheese and herbs. Cheddar and chives can make a lovely savory scone. Or mix in some cooked bacon for a hearty treat. These savory options are great for brunch or a snack.
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Scones
To keep your cherry almond scones fresh, place them in an airtight container. Store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you have more scones than you can eat, refrigeration is okay. However, this can change the texture. To avoid this, try to eat them fresh!
Freezing Scones
You can freeze the scones both before and after baking. If freezing before baking, cut the dough into wedges. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the bake time.
If you want to freeze baked scones, let them cool completely first. Wrap each scone in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag. They will stay fresh for about three months.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat scones, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5 to 10 minutes. This will make them warm and soft again. For microwave reheating, use a low power setting for about 15 seconds. This is fast but may not give the same crusty texture. Enjoy your scones warm!
FAQs
What are Cherry Almond Scones?
Cherry almond scones are a delightful treat made with fresh cherries and almonds. They are soft, slightly sweet, and have a nutty flavor. The scones use simple ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter. You mix them quickly, bake until golden, and enjoy warm. The almond extract adds a lovely depth, making these scones special.
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first. Frozen cherries may add extra moisture, so adjust the flour slightly if needed. The flavor will still shine through, and they will taste great.
How do I make scones softer or denser?
To make scones softer, use more cream and mix gently. Avoid overmixing the dough. To achieve a denser scone, add a bit more flour or reduce the cream. You can also try using whole milk instead of heavy cream for a different texture.
How long do scones stay fresh?
Scones stay fresh for about two days at room temperature. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain their softness. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap each scone tightly and store them in a freezer bag.
This article covers how to make delicious cherry almond scones. We discussed key ingredients and step-by-step instructions for baking. I shared tips for perfect texture, flavor enhancements, and serving ideas. You can even explore variations and storage options.
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, this recipe offers something for everyone. Enjoy creating your tasty treats!
