If you love the bright flavors of blueberries and lemons, you’re in for a treat! In this blog post, I’ll share my delightful and easy recipe for Blueberry Lemon Scones. These scones are perfect for breakfast, tea time, or any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness. With simple ingredients and quick steps, you’ll enjoy warm, buttery scones in no time. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Blueberry Lemon Scones
To make the best blueberry lemon scones, you need these key ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1 cup fresh blueberries (frozen blueberries can be used if fresh are unavailable)
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for topping (optional)
These ingredients come together to create a bright and tasty treat. The all-purpose flour gives the scones their structure. Sugar adds sweetness, while baking powder and baking soda help them rise. Cold butter is essential for a flaky texture. Fresh blueberries burst with flavor, and lemon zest adds a refreshing kick. Buttermilk helps keep the scones moist.
I love adding a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top for a delightful crunch. This recipe is simple and quick, making it great for any morning. You can find the full recipe above to guide you through the steps!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing for Baking
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the scones rise well. Next, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This step prevents the scones from sticking.
Mixing the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients. Whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well until everything is even.
Now, add the cold, cubed unsalted butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix. Aim for a crumbly texture, leaving some pea-sized pieces of butter. This gives the scones a nice flakiness.
Adding Flavor Components
Gently fold in 1 cup of fresh blueberries and the zest of 1 lemon. Be careful not to crush the berries. This adds a burst of flavor. In another bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients. Combine 1/2 cup buttermilk, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Mix until fully combined.
Forming the Dough
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. A slightly shaggy dough is perfect. Avoid overmixing.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead it gently for about 30 seconds. Shape the dough into a circle that is about 1 inch thick.
Cutting and Baking
Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 equal wedges. Place each wedge on the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between them to allow for rising.
If you want a sweet crunch, sprinkle the tops with 1 tablespoon of coarse sugar. Bake the scones for 15-18 minutes. Look for a golden brown top. A toothpick inserted should come out clean. Enjoy your delicious Blueberry Lemon Scones! For the full recipe, refer to the earlier section.
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring the Best Texture
To get great scones, keep your butter cold. I always use cold butter, cut into small cubes. This helps create a flaky texture. When the butter melts in the oven, it makes little pockets. These pockets make the scones rise and become light.
Next, avoid overmixing the dough. Mix just until everything blends together. If you mix too much, the scones can turn tough. A light hand keeps them soft and tender.
Flavor Enhancements
You can boost the flavor with herbs or spices. Try adding a pinch of fresh thyme or a dash of cinnamon. These small additions can create a unique twist that everyone will love.
For an even stronger lemon taste, use lemon extract. A teaspoon can make your scones pop with citrus flavor. This is especially nice if you want a more intense lemon bite.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your scones with delicious jams or clotted cream. Strawberry jam or lemon curd works perfectly with blueberry lemon scones. These toppings add sweetness and richness.
For a special touch, present the scones on a pretty platter. Dust them lightly with powdered sugar. Add fresh blueberries and bright lemon slices for color. This will make your dish look as good as it tastes. Enjoy your baking! Check out the Full Recipe for more details on making these delightful scones.
Variations
Alternative Fruit Options
You can swap blueberries for other fruits. Raspberries work well in this recipe. They add a nice tartness. Cranberries can also be great, especially in the fall. For a tangy twist, try adding lemon curd. This gives your scones a zesty burst of flavor. It pairs perfectly with both the blueberries and the lemon.
Dietary Modifications
If you need gluten-free scones, use a gluten-free flour blend. Many brands work well in baking. You can also make this recipe vegan. Swap the butter for vegan butter and the buttermilk for plant-based milk with a splash of vinegar. These changes keep your scones tasty and light.
Mixing Flavors
Mixing flavors can elevate your scones. Try adding fresh herbs like lavender for a floral note. It adds a unique twist that many love. You might also want to incorporate nuts or chocolate chips. Chopped walnuts or dark chocolate can give a delightful crunch and richness. Each option brings its own fun twist to the classic scone. For the full recipe, check out the earlier sections!
Storage Info
How to Store Scones
To keep your scones fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps lock in moisture. For short-term storage, place them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider the freezer. Make sure the container fits your scones well. A glass jar or a plastic box works great.
Freezing Scones
You can freeze scones before or after baking. To freeze before baking, shape the dough into wedges. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the wedges to an airtight bag. If freezing after baking, let them cool first. Then, wrap them individually in plastic wrap. Finally, place them in a freezer-safe bag.
To thaw, leave them in the fridge overnight. For a warm treat, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Shelf Life
At room temperature, these scones stay fresh for about two days. After that, they may dry out. Look for signs of spoilage like mold or an off smell. If you see any of these, it’s best to toss them. Enjoy your Blueberry Lemon Scones Delightful and Easy Recipe to the fullest! For the full recipe, refer back to the section above.
FAQs
Can I make Blueberry Lemon Scones ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these scones ahead of time. You can prepare the dough and cut it into wedges. Place the wedges on a baking sheet and cover them tightly. Store the sheet in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the fridge. This way, you will have fresh scones in no time.
How do I know when the scones are done baking?
To check if the scones are done, look for a golden brown color on top. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of a scone. If it comes out clean, the scones are ready. They should feel firm to the touch. Trust your senses—the aroma will also be a good hint!
What’s the best way to reheat leftover scones?
To reheat leftover scones, place them on a baking sheet. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 5 to 10 minutes. This warms them up and keeps them nice and soft. You can also use a microwave, but this may make them a bit chewy.
Can I use frozen blueberries in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen blueberries if fresh ones are not available. Just toss them in flour before adding to the dough. This helps prevent them from sinking during baking. They will still taste great and give you that burst of flavor in every bite.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a simple substitute. Mix 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This will give you a similar acidity and richness as buttermilk. You can also use plain yogurt or sour cream mixed with a little milk.
Blueberry lemon scones are a delicious treat that anyone can make. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step baking instructions, and tips for the best results. You learned about tasty variations and how to store your scones for freshness.
With these simple steps, you can impress family and friends. Enjoy your baking journey and don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors. Your kitchen will be filled with warm, sweet scents in no time!
