What is the secret to making good lemon scones?

To make perfect lemon scones, use cold ingredients, like cold butter. Avoid overmixing the dough. This ensures a tender, flaky texture. Use fresh lemon zest and ensure your baking powder is fresh. This guarantees maximum rise and flavor.

What should I avoid when making scones?

Don't overwork the dough or use warm ingredients. Old baking powder can also ruin your scones. Cold butter and minimal mixing are key. Watch your baking time closely to prevent dry, tough scones. What is the difference between British and American scones? British scones are less sweet and more biscuit-like. They're often served with clotted cream and jam. American scones are sweeter and may have fruits or chocolate. British scones are round, while American ones are triangular.

What does lemon juice do in baking?

Lemon juice adds brightness and acidity to baked goods. It helps activate baking powder and makes the scones tender. It also adds a vibrant citrus flavor. The acid balances the richness of butter, creating a complex taste.

What kind of flour makes the best scones?

All-purpose flour is the best choice for scones. Some prefer a mix of all-purpose and cake flour for extra tenderness. Self-rising flour can also work, but adjust other leavening agents carefully.

What are 3 characteristics of a good scone?

A perfect scone is light and tender, not too dense. It should have a golden-brown exterior with a slight crispness. And it should have a rich, buttery flavor without being dry or crumbly.

Why are scones considered less healthy?

Scones are high in calories, butter, and refined carbohydrates. They're made with lots of butter and sugar, which increases fat and calorie content. But, you can make them healthier by using whole grain flour, reducing sugar, and controlling portion sizes.

How can I keep my lemon scones from drying out?

Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. Adding a slice of bread to the container helps keep them moist. For longer storage, freeze the scones and reheat them gently in the oven before serving.

Can I freeze lemon scone dough or baked scones?

Yes! You can freeze both unbaked and baked scones. For unbaked dough, shape the scones and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. For baked scones, cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat directly from frozen in the oven.

Elevate Your Tea Time with Best Lemon Scones

Name: Lemon Scones
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-483776H3M56S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour; ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed; ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream (plus extra for brushing); 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon); 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Description

These delightful lemon scones are zesty, buttery, and perfect for breakfast or an afternoon tea. They are easy to make and absolutely delicious!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Scones:

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
½ cup (120ml) heavy cream (plus extra for brushing)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)

For the Lemon Glaze (Optional):

1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat & Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest.
Cut in the Butter:
Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
Form the Dough:
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Shape the Scones:
Lightly flour a clean surface and turn out the dough. Gently knead 3-4 times to bring it together. Pat it into a 1-inch thick disc, then cut into 8 wedges or use a round cutter for traditional scones.
Bake:
Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart. Brush the tops with a little extra heavy cream for a golden finish. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden.
Prepare the Glaze (Optional):
While the scones are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Cool & Glaze:
Let the scones cool for 10 minutes, then drizzle with the lemon glaze if using.

Serve & Enjoy:
Enjoy warm with butter, honey, or extra glaze for a delicious citrusy treat!

Notes

Sugar Content: The sugar content can vary based on the amount of glaze used.
Additions: Adding ingredients like blueberries or poppy seeds may alter the nutritional values slightly.
Portion Size: The recipe typically makes about 8 scones; adjust values accordingly if making larger or smaller scones.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Scones
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 8 scones
Calories: ~260 kcal per scone
Sugar: 7 g
Sodium: 200 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 4 g
Cholesterol: 50 mg

Keywords: #LemonScones #HomemadeScones #CitrusBaking #BrunchRecipes #AfternoonTea