If you love the sweet taste of cherries and the nutty crunch of almonds, you’re in for a treat. In this recipe, I'll show you how to make Cherry Almond Scones that are delightfully flaky and perfect for any occasion. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up these delicious scones in no time. Let’s dive into this easy step-by-step guide to baking your new favorite snack!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet cherries paired with the nutty almonds create a delightful and unique flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it's a cozy brunch, afternoon tea, or a sweet treat for guests, these scones fit perfectly.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or nuts, allowing for a variety of flavors to suit your taste.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup pitted fresh cherries, chopped
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- Additional sugar for sprinkling on top (optional)
When making cherry almond scones, you start with simple ingredients. Each one plays a key role in flavor and texture.
All-purpose flour forms the base. It gives structure. Granulated sugar adds sweetness. It balances the tartness of cherries. Baking powder acts as a leavening agent, making the scones light and fluffy. Salt enhances the flavors.
Now, for the unsalted butter. Use it cold and cubed. This step is vital. It helps create those flaky layers we all love. The fresh cherries are the stars. Their sweet and tart notes shine in every bite. Sliced almonds add a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
For the wet ingredients, we use heavy cream. It adds richness. The egg binds everything together. Lastly, almond extract brings an extra almond flavor. If you want a sweet crunch, sprinkle some additional sugar on top before baking.
Gather these ingredients. They will help you create delightful scones that everyone will love.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for even baking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help your scones not stick and make cleanup easy.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together well. This mix forms the base of your scones.
Incorporating Butter
Now, add 1/2 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend the butter in. Keep mixing until the texture looks like coarse crumbs. This step is vital for flaky scones.
Adding Cherries and Almonds
Next, gently fold in 1/2 cup of chopped fresh cherries and 1/4 cup of sliced almonds. Use a spatula to mix them in. Be careful not to crush the cherries; you want them whole for juicy bites.
Preparing Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Mix until everything is combined. This rich mixture adds moisture and flavor to your scones.
Combining Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing, or your scones will turn out dense instead of light and flaky.
Shaping the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife to slice the circle into wedges, similar to cutting a pizza. This forms the individual scones.
Baking the Scones
Transfer the wedges to your lined baking sheet. For a sweet touch, sprinkle a little extra sugar on top of each one. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Look for a golden brown color and a clean toothpick when done.
Cooling and Serving
After baking, take the scones out of the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. This helps keep their texture. Serve them warm, and enjoy the delicious flavors of cherry and almond!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Flaky Scones
To get those flaky layers, use cold butter. Cut it into small cubes, then add it to your flour mix. Work it in quickly until it looks like coarse crumbs. This step is key for a light texture.
Avoiding Dough Overmixing
Mix the wet and dry ingredients gently. Stir just until combined. Overmixing will make your scones dense and tough. Treat the dough like a delicate friend; be kind and gentle.
Perfect Baking Time and Temperature
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the scones for 15-20 minutes. They should be golden brown. Insert a toothpick to check; it should come out clean. This tells you they are ready.
Presentation Suggestions
Serve your warm scones on a rustic board. Add a few fresh cherries and some sliced almonds on top. For a sweet touch, drizzle a glaze made of powdered sugar, almond extract, and water. The visual appeal will match the great taste.
Pro Tips
- Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream are cold to create flaky scones. Cold ingredients help to create steam in the oven, resulting in a light and airy texture.
- Don't Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough scones, so it's best to stop when you still see a few flour streaks.
- Chill the Dough: If time allows, chill the shaped scone dough for 15-30 minutes before baking. This helps the butter to firm up again which can enhance the flaky texture.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix in different fruits or nuts! Blueberries, raspberries, or walnuts can be delicious alternatives to cherries and almonds, giving you a variety of flavors.
Variations
Substituting Different Fruits
You can change the flavor of your scones by using different fruits. Instead of cherries, try blueberries, raspberries, or diced peaches. Each fruit brings its own taste and sweetness. Just make sure the fruit is fresh and in season for the best results. If you use frozen fruit, thaw and drain it well. This keeps the scones from getting too soggy.
Adding Spices or Zest
Adding spices or zest can elevate your scone game. Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. Lemon or orange zest gives a bright, fresh flavor. Mix these in with the dry ingredients for an even distribution. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
If you need a gluten-free option, switch the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur Flour work well. Also, add a bit of xanthan gum to help bind the dough. This will keep your scones light and fluffy without the gluten.
Vegan Option
To make these scones vegan, replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Use plant-based milk, like almond or soy milk, instead of heavy cream. For the egg, use a flax egg or applesauce. This keeps the scones moist and delicious while being plant-based. Enjoy your cherry almond scones in a way that fits your lifestyle!
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
You can keep your Cherry Almond Scones fresh for a few days. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay good for about two days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them. Wrap them in plastic wrap first to keep moisture out.
Freezing Scones
Freezing is a great way to save your scones for later. Let them cool completely after baking. Then, wrap each scone in plastic wrap. Put them in a freezer bag or container. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy them, just thaw them at room temperature.
Reheating Tips
To reheat your scones, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet and warm them for about 10 minutes. This will make them nice and flaky again. You can also reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Enjoy them warm for the best taste!
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just thaw and drain them first. This keeps the dough from getting too wet. Cherries add a nice burst of flavor. Make sure to chop them into smaller pieces for even distribution. This way, every bite will have that sweet cherry taste.
How do I know when the scones are done?
The scones are done when they turn golden brown. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the scones are ready. Bake them for 15-20 minutes to reach that perfect color. Keep an eye on them as they bake to avoid overcooking.
What can I serve with Cherry Almond Scones?
Cherry almond scones pair well with many items. Try serving them with clotted cream or butter. A dollop of jam adds sweetness, too. You can also enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee. This makes for a cozy breakfast or snack.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
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. When you're ready, just shape and bake the scones. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh scones even on busy mornings.
You now have all the steps to bake delicious cherry almond scones. We covered the main ingredients, mixing techniques, and baking tips. Remember to use fresh cherries and sliced almonds for the best taste. You can also try fun variations or different fruit to make it your own. Store leftovers properly for later enjoyment. Baking scones can be rewarding and fun. Enjoy the process, and savor the yummy results!
