Lemon Cream Scones: A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion
Introduction
Scones are a classic British treat that has gained popularity all over the world. These delightful pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon tea. And when it comes to scones, lemon cream scones are a crowd favorite. The tangy flavor of lemon combined with the rich creaminess creates a truly irresistible treat. In this article, we will share a tried and tested recipe for making the perfect lemon cream scones that will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
Ingredients
To make these delectable lemon cream scones, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Steps
Now that we have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making these mouthwatering lemon cream scones.
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the lemon zest, heavy cream, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
5. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can result in dense scones.
6. Roll out the dough into a circle that is about 1-inch thick. Using a round biscuit cutter, cut out scones from the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each scone to allow for spreading.
7. Brush the tops of the scones with the beaten egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden color when baked.
8. Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
9. Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes.
10. Serve the lemon cream scones warm or at room temperature. They are best enjoyed fresh, but you can also store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
KETO AND LOW CARBS Variations
If you are following a keto or low-carb diet, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of lemon cream scones with a few modifications.
– Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour to reduce the carb content.
– Swap granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
– Use unsalted butter and heavy cream, as they are low in carbs.
– Adjust the baking time as almond or coconut flour may require slightly longer baking.
By making these simple substitutions, you can create keto and low-carb-friendly lemon cream scones that are equally delicious and satisfying.
Tips
To ensure the best results when making lemon cream scones, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. Use cold butter: Cold butter is essential for achieving a flaky texture in scones. Make sure to cube the butter and keep it cold until ready to use.
2. Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough and dense scones. Mix the ingredients until just combined to maintain a light and tender texture.
3. Use fresh lemon zest and juice: The bright citrus flavor is the star of these scones, so it’s important to use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best results.
4. Serve with clotted cream and lemon curd: Lemon cream scones pair perfectly with clotted cream and tangy lemon curd. The combination of flavors is simply divine.
Conclusion
Lemon cream scones are a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrus flavor to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet afternoon tea, these scones are sure to impress. By following the simple steps outlined in this recipe, you can create tender, flaky scones with a refreshing lemon twist. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and indulge in the heavenly taste of homemade lemon cream scones.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze the scone dough?
Yes, you can freeze the scone dough before baking. Simply shape the dough into scones, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the scones to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, preheat the oven and bake the frozen scones as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
2. Can I substitute the heavy cream with milk?
While heavy cream provides a richer texture and flavor, you can substitute it with milk if desired. However, keep in mind that the scones may be slightly less tender and have a lighter texture.
3. How should I store the leftover scones?
If you have any leftover scones, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh them, you can warm them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
4. Can I add other flavors to the scone dough?
Absolutely! Lemon cream scones are versatile and can be customized to your liking. Feel free to add other flavors such as blueberries, raspberries, or even chocolate chips to the dough for added delight.
Remember, the key to making perfect lemon cream scones is to enjoy the process and have fun experimenting with different variations. So put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of freshly baked scones fill your kitchen. Happy baking!
