Cherry Almond Scones Tasty and Simple Delight

If you love fresh-baked goods, you will adore my Cherry Almond Scones! They are easy to make and bursting with fruity flavor. In this post, I'll share the ingredients, simple steps, and my best tips for perfect scones. Whether you're a baking pro or a newbie, these treats are sure to impress. Let's dive in and create this tasty delight together!

Ingredients

List of ingredients

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/4 cup granulated sugar

- 1 tablespoon baking powder

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and roughly chopped

- 1/4 cup sliced almonds

- 1/2 cup heavy cream

- 1 large egg

- 1 teaspoon almond extract

- 1 tablespoon milk (for brushing)

- Additional sliced almonds for garnish

Measurements and substitutions

Using precise measurements helps your scones turn out great. You can swap some items if needed:

- All-purpose flour: You might use whole wheat flour for more fiber.

- Granulated sugar: Brown sugar adds a deeper flavor.

- Unsalted butter: Coconut oil works for a dairy-free option.

- Heavy cream: Half-and-half or whole milk can replace it, but the scones may not be as rich.

Additional flavor enhancers

Want to make your scones even tastier? Here are some ideas:

- Add lemon zest for a bright touch.

- Try a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.

- Mix in a bit of vanilla extract for more flavor depth.

These simple tweaks can elevate your cherry almond scones to a new level!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of the dough

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step helps the scones rise well. Next, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they blend nicely.

Now, add 1/4 cup of cold unsalted butter, cubed, into the flour mix. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter in. You want it to look like coarse crumbs. Keep some pea-sized pieces of butter for the right texture.

Then, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped cherries and 1/4 cup of sliced almonds. Mix them gently so they spread evenly in the dough.

In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Make sure it is smooth and mixed well. Pour this creamy mix into the dry ingredients. Stir it gently until just combined. Don’t overmix! This keeps your scones light and fluffy.

Shaping and cutting the scones

Next, turn the slightly sticky dough onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, knead it gently a few times to bring it together. Flatten the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick.

Now, use a sharp knife to cut the dough into 8 even wedges. Carefully transfer these pieces to the baking sheet you prepared earlier. Make sure to leave space between each scone. This helps them bake evenly.

Baking process

Brush the tops of the scones with a light layer of milk. This gives them a nice golden color. Sprinkle some sliced almonds on top for extra crunch.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they are done when they turn golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Once baked, take them out and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. After that, move the scones to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the lovely aroma that fills your kitchen!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the perfect scone texture

To get light and fluffy scones, keep your butter cold. Use small cubes and mix it in fast. The butter pieces should remain visible. This gives scones a nice rise and flaky texture. Do not overmix your dough. Gently stir until just combined. Overmixing makes them tough, and we want them soft and tender.

Common mistakes to avoid

One big mistake is not measuring flour correctly. Too much flour makes scones dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy. Another mistake is baking at the wrong temperature. Always preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If your oven is too cool, scones won’t rise properly. Lastly, avoid skipping the milk brush. This helps the scones brown nicely.

Enhancements for flavor and crunch

For extra flavor, try adding lemon zest or vanilla extract. These will brighten the taste. You can also swap cherries for seasonal fruits like blueberries or raspberries. For more crunch, add more sliced almonds on top before baking. A sprinkle of coarse sugar adds a lovely sparkle and sweetness.

Variations

Seasonal fruit options

You can switch up the cherries for other fruits. Fresh blueberries or raspberries work great. Peaches or apricots add a nice twist too. In fall, try using diced apples or pears. Each fruit gives a different taste and texture. Be sure to adjust the amount if using larger fruits.

Nut alternatives

If you want to change the nuts, use chopped walnuts or pecans. They bring a new flavor and crunch. You can also skip the nuts if you prefer. This keeps the scones light and simple. Just remember to keep the almond extract for that classic taste.

Glazing and topping ideas

A simple glaze can enhance your scones. Mix powdered sugar with a little milk for a sweet touch. You can flavor it with vanilla or almond extract. For a crunchy topping, sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking. A light dusting of powdered sugar after baking also looks lovely.

Storage Info

Best practices for storing scones

To keep your scones fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their soft texture. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.

Freezing instructions

For freezing, let the baked scones cool completely. Wrap each scone in plastic wrap tightly. Place the wrapped scones in a freezer bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply remove them from the freezer.

Reheating tips for fresh taste

To reheat frozen scones, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the scones and place them on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warm. This method restores their fresh-baked taste. You can also microwave them for about 20-30 seconds, but the oven gives better results.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them first. This keeps the dough from getting too wet. Frozen cherries bring great flavor and are easy to find all year.

How can I make these scones vegan?

To make vegan cherry almond scones, swap the butter for coconut oil or vegan butter. Use almond milk instead of heavy cream. Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes before adding it to your dough. This keeps the scones light and fluffy.

What beverages pair well with cherry almond scones?

Cherry almond scones taste wonderful with tea or coffee. A light herbal tea, like chamomile, complements the sweetness. For coffee, a smooth medium roast works well. Try pairing them with a glass of sparkling water for a refreshing touch. Enjoying these scones with a beverage enhances the whole experience!

In this post, we covered how to make tasty cherry almond scones. We looked at the right ingredients, steps to prepare the dough, and tips for baking. We also explored various flavor options and how to store your scones for later use.

Making scones is fun and rewarding. With these insights, you can create perfect treats every time. Enjoy the process, and share your scone stories!