Cherry Scones

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of cherries with a tender, flaky texture, you’ve landed in the right place. Cherry scones are a perfect addition to your breakfast or afternoon tea. These little treasures are bursting with flavor and are surprisingly easy to whip up. With a hint of orange zest and the richness from the butter and cream, each bite is a heavenly experience. Let’s dive into the world of cherry scones and learn how to make these irresistible pastries!

Why It Works Every Time

The beauty of these cherry scones lies in the balance of ingredients and the method used to prepare them. The combination of cold, cubed butter and heavy cream creates a rich and moist dough that bakes to golden perfection. The baking powder gives the scones their rise, while the sugar enhances the overall flavor. Using dried tart cherries ensures that you get a concentrated cherry flavor without excess moisture, which can make the scones soggy. Plus, the addition of orange zest brightens up the flavor profile, making these scones a true delight.

What You’ll Need

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed and frozen – for a flaky texture
• 2 large oranges – for zest and juice
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – sweetness is key
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – for leavening
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – to balance flavors
• 2 cups flour, spooned and leveled – the base of the scones
• 11 tablespoons heavy cream, divided – for richness
• 1 large egg – binds ingredients together
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract – for depth of flavor
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional) – adds a nice touch of flavor
• 3/4 cup dried tart cherries – for bursts of deliciousness
• White sparkling sugar (optional) – for garnish
• 1 cup powdered sugar – for icing (optional)

Equipment & Tools

• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients
• Whisk – to mix dry ingredients
• Pastry cutter or fork – to cut in the butter
• Baking sheet – for placing the scones
• Parchment paper – to prevent sticking
• Oven – for baking your scones
• Cooling rack – to cool your scones after baking

Cherry Scones: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Take your frozen, cubed butter and add it to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or fork, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You want to see small pieces of butter; this is what creates the flaky texture!

Step 4: Add the Cherries and Zest

Gently fold in the dried tart cherries and the zest of both oranges. This is where the scone starts to take on its unique flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, vanilla bean paste, and almond extract (if using). This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your dough.

Step 6: Mix Everything Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to be a bit shaggy.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured work surface. Gently pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Use a sharp knife or a bench scraper to cut the dough into wedges or use a round cutter for perfectly shaped scones.

Step 8: Brush with Cream and Sprinkle Sugar

Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with a bit of heavy cream and, if desired, sprinkle with white sparkling sugar for a lovely finish.

Step 9: Bake

Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. The aroma will be heavenly!

Step 10: Cool and Glaze

Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack. If you’re feeling fancy, whisk together powdered sugar and a splash of orange juice to create a simple glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled scones for an extra touch of sweetness.

Fit It to Your Goals

• For a healthier version, consider reducing the sugar or using a sugar substitute.
• Swap out dried cherries for other fruits like blueberries or cranberries.
• Make them dairy-free by using a dairy-free butter and cream alternative.
• Add nuts or seeds for extra texture and nutrition.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

While making cherry scones is straightforward, here are a few things to watch out for:

• Overmixing the dough can lead to tough scones. Mix just until combined.
• If your scones come out too dry, you might need to add a splash more cream next time.
• For undercooked scones, ensure your oven is at the correct temperature and bake a few more minutes if needed.
• If they spread too much, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

Cherry scones are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to keep them:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the unbaked scones on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Reheat baked scones in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds to bring back their warmth.

Common Qs About Cherry Scones

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?

While you can use fresh cherries, they will add more moisture to the dough. If you decide to go this route, be sure to reduce other liquids in the recipe to compensate.

How do I know when my scones are done baking?

Scones are done when they are golden brown on the top and firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, shape it into scones, and keep them in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before baking.

What’s the best way to serve scones?

Cherry scones are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with clotted cream, butter, or a dollop of jam. Serve them with a cup of tea for the ultimate experience!

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have the recipe and the tips, it’s time to get into the kitchen and bake up some delicious cherry scones. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch or enjoying them with your morning coffee, these scones are sure to impress. The delightful aroma will fill your home, and the taste will leave everyone wanting more. Enjoy the process and the delightful results!