Christmas Bakery Gingerbread Scones Festive Delight

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Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the warm, spicy aroma of gingerbread? In this post, I will guide you through making Christmas Bakery Gingerbread Scones, a festive treat perfect for holiday gatherings. With rich flavors and a simple recipe, these scones are a delightful way to celebrate the season. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to bake your new favorite holiday snack!

Why I Love This Recipe

1. Festive Flavors: The warm spices of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg create a delightful holiday aroma that fills the kitchen, making it a perfect treat for Christmas.
2. Simple Preparation: With easy-to-follow steps and minimal ingredients, these scones can be whipped up quickly, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends.
3. Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like crystallized ginger or chocolate chips to personalize these scones and make them uniquely yours.
4. Beautiful Presentation: Drizzled with a sweet glaze and garnished with festive touches, these scones are not only delicious but also a stunning addition to any holiday spread.

Ingredients

List of Essential Ingredients

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1/4 cup brown sugar, tightly packed

– 1 tablespoon baking powder

– 1 teaspoon ground ginger

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

– 1/2 cup molasses

– 1/4 cup milk

– 1 large egg

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– Optional: 1/2 cup chopped crystallized ginger or chocolate chips for added sweetness

I love using fresh ingredients in my baking. Each one plays a key role in flavor. The all-purpose flour gives the scones their structure. Brown sugar adds a nice sweetness and deep flavor. The baking powder helps the scones rise and become fluffy.

Spices are a must for gingerbread scones. Ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create that warm, cozy taste we all love. Salt balances the sweetness and enhances the spices.

Cold unsalted butter is vital. It keeps the scones tender and flaky. I cut it into small cubes to mix into the flour. Molasses adds a rich, dark sweetness. It also gives a lovely color to the scones.

Milk, an egg, and vanilla extract bring everything together. The egg helps bind the ingredients, while vanilla adds a nice aroma. For a fun twist, I love adding optional ingredients like crystallized ginger or chocolate chips. They add extra sweetness and flavor.

These ingredients work together to create the perfect festive treat. Each bite offers a delightful mix of spice and sweetness, just right for the holiday season.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat will give your scones a nice golden color.

2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent the scones from sticking.

3. In a large bowl, mix together the dry ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1/4 cup brown sugar

– 1 tablespoon baking powder

– 1 teaspoon ground ginger

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

4. Whisk the dry ingredients until well blended. This step ensures you get a nice, even flavor.

5. Add the cold, cubed butter (1/2 cup) into the flour mix.

6. Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to mix the butter until it looks like coarse crumbs. Avoid large butter pieces.

Mixing Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients:

– 1/2 cup molasses

– 1/4 cup milk

– 1 large egg

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well combined. This will add moisture and flavor to your scones.

Forming and Baking the Scones

1. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined.

2. If you want extra flavor, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped crystallized ginger or chocolate chips.

3. Lightly flour your work surface. Turn the dough out onto it.

4. Knead the dough gently for about 5-6 times. You want it to come together without overworking it.

5. Shape the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick.

6. Cut the circle into 8 equal wedges, like a pizza.

7. Carefully transfer the wedges to your prepared baking sheet.

8. Bake in the oven for 15-18 minutes. Look for a golden brown color on top.

9. While cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together:

– 1 cup powdered sugar

– 2-3 tablespoons milk

– A pinch of ground ginger

10. If the glaze is too thick, add more milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

11. Drizzle the glaze over the warm scones and let it set before serving.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Your Scones

To make the best gingerbread scones, the texture matters a lot. Start by mixing the dry ingredients well to avoid clumps. When you add the butter, don’t overmix. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine until it looks like coarse crumbs. This helps keep your scones light and fluffy.

Next, watch your oven temperature. Preheat it to 400°F (200°C). An even temperature helps the scones rise perfectly. If your oven runs hot, check them a minute or two early. Look for a golden brown color on top to know they are done.

Glazing Techniques

Making the glaze is easy and fun. Mix powdered sugar, milk, and a pinch of ground ginger in a bowl. Stir until smooth. If it seems too thick, add a bit more milk. You want it to drizzle easily over the scones.

When it comes to decorating, be creative! Drizzle the glaze over the top in zigzag patterns. For an extra touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top. You can also add fresh rosemary or cranberries for color. This makes your scones look festive and inviting.

Variations

Flavor Enhancements

You can boost the flavor of your gingerbread scones in many ways. Adding different spices makes them unique. Try a pinch of cardamom or some allspice for a new twist. You can also mix in some chopped nuts or dried fruits. Walnuts or cranberries add great texture and taste. For a sweeter touch, consider adding chocolate chips. They melt and mix nicely with the warm scones.

Dietary Modifications

If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free flour blends. These work well in this recipe, keeping the scones light and fluffy. For those following a vegan diet, swap the egg for a flax egg. Just mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes. You can also use plant-based milk instead of regular milk.

Want a healthier treat? Reduce the brown sugar by half or use a sugar substitute. This way, you can enjoy the scones without too much sugar. The flavors will still shine through, making them a delightful snack for everyone.

Storage Info

Storing Leftover Scones

To keep your gingerbread scones fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their soft texture. If you have a few left after Christmas, don’t worry! They can last up to two days at room temperature. Just make sure to place them in a cool, dry spot.

For long-term storage, freezing is a great option. Wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature or heat them in the oven.

Reheating Scones

Reheating scones is easy and will bring back their fresh taste. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet. Heat for about 5 to 10 minutes. This method keeps them warm and soft.

If you prefer a microwave, use it on low power. Heat each scone for about 15 to 20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make them tough. Enjoy your festive treat as if they were just baked!

FAQs

Common Questions

How do I know when the scones are done baking?

You’ll know the scones are done when they turn golden brown on top. They should feel firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. This means they are baked through.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This makes it easy to bake fresh scones later.

How long do the scones last?

Freshly baked scones last about 2-3 days at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container. If you want them longer, freeze them. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Baking and Ingredient Substitutions

What can I substitute for molasses?

If you don’t have molasses, you can use honey or maple syrup. They will change the flavor slightly but still add sweetness. Brown sugar mixed with water can also work in a pinch.

Can I use any other type of flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste. Almond flour is another option, but it may change the texture. Just keep in mind that you might need to adjust the liquid in the recipe.

This blog post covered the essential ingredients and steps for making delicious scones. You learned how to mix and bake the dough and even enhance flavors. I shared tips for perfecting your scones and offered variations for different diets. Storing and reheating methods ensure your scones stay fresh.

Remember, scones are versatile. Feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Enjoy your baking journey, and share your tasty creation

Christmas Bakery Gingerbread Scones

Delicious gingerbread scones perfect for the holiday season.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, tightly packed
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped crystallized ginger or chocolate chips (optional)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2-3 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
• 1 pinch ground ginger (for glaze)

Instructions

 

• Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they’re evenly blended.
• Next, incorporate the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs, ensuring no large butter pieces remain.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the molasses, milk, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
• Pour the liquid mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. If you choose to, fold in the chopped crystallized ginger or chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor.
• Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. With gentle hands, knead the dough about 5-6 times, just enough for it to come together without overworking it.
• Form the dough into a circle roughly 1-inch thick. Use a sharp knife to cut the circle into 8 equal wedges, like a pizza, and transfer them carefully to the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are perfectly golden brown on top.
• While the scones are cooling slightly, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and a pinch of ground ginger until you achieve a smooth consistency. If the glaze is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of milk until desired consistency is reached.
• Once the scones have cooled for a bit, drizzle the glaze over the top and allow it to set for a few minutes prior to serving.

Notes

Serve warm on a festive platter, garnished with rosemary or cranberries.

Keyword Christmas, gingerbread, holiday baking, scones

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