Classic Cherry Scone Recipe: A Sweet and Tangy Treat
Cherry scones are a delightful dessert-style cousin to breakfast biscuits. They feature fresh cherries, citrus zest, vanilla, and almond extract. This recipe shines in late summer when cherries are plentiful at farmers’ markets.
These scones boast a crisp exterior and tender interior. They’re perfect for afternoon tea or as a simple sweet treat.
Homemade cherry scones offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. These buttery treats are infused with fresh cherries and citrus flavours. They’re a beloved part of the British tea time tradition.
Cherry scones make a brilliant mid-afternoon snack. They also pair wonderfully with a full afternoon tea spread. These scones will surely satisfy your craving for a comforting treat.
Understanding British Scones: A Tea Time Tradition
Scones are a beloved part of British afternoon tea. These crumbly, dense baked goods have a unique texture. They differ from American biscuits, boasting a drier and more compact crumb.
The Difference Between Scones and Biscuits
Scones and biscuits have distinct differences. Scones are often triangular or round, while biscuits are typically round or square. Scones have a richer, more buttery flavour due to added fat.
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The Art of British Tea Service
Afternoon tea in Britain is rich in history and etiquette. Scones are served with clotted cream and jams for a customised experience. The order of cream and jam on scones remains a topic of debate.
Why Cherry Scones Are Special
Cherry scones offer a unique twist on the classic British treat. The cherries’ sweetness and tartness complement the scones’ buttery, crumbly texture. Michigan supplies about 75% of the US tart cherry crop.
“A good scone should be light and airy, with a slightly crisp outer shell and a soft, tender interior. The perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea.”
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Cherry Scones
Crafting perfect cherry scones requires the freshest and most flavourful ingredients. Every element plays a crucial role in achieving irresistible taste and texture. Let’s explore the key components for making delicious cherry scones.
Types of Cherries to Use
Fresh red sweet cherries like Bing cherries are ideal for scones. Their plump, juicy nature complements the buttery scone perfectly. Dried sour cherries offer a tangy contrast, balancing the sweetness nicely.
Choosing the Right Flour and Butter
All-purpose flour provides the necessary structure and crumb for scones. Use cold, unsalted butter to create the flakiness synonymous with well-made scones. These ingredients form the foundation of your delectable treats.
Additional Flavour Enhancers
- Lemon and orange zest: A touch of citrus zest adds a bright, refreshing note to complement the cherries.
- Vanilla extract: For a classic flavour profile, a dash of vanilla extract is a must.
- Almond extract: A small amount of pure almond extract can lend a delightful nutty aroma and taste that pairs beautifully with the cherries.
- Heavy cream and eggs: These ingredients contribute to the rich, tender texture of the scones.
Carefully selecting these ingredients will help you create impressive cherry scones. Striking the right balance between sweet fruit, buttery notes, and complementary flavours is crucial. Your efforts will result in delightful scones that everyone will enjoy.
Cherry Scone Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Baking delicious cherry scones at home is simple. This recipe will help you create tender, flaky scones with juicy cherries. You can use fresh or frozen cherries for this tasty treat.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine 2.5 cups of flour, ⅔ cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Pulse to mix the dry ingredients.
- Add 10-11 ounces of pitted tart cherries, either fresh or frozen, to the dry mixture and toss to coat the fruit.
- Cut 6 tablespoons of cold unsalted butter into small pieces and add it to the food processor. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 egg and ⅔ cup of cold milk. Pour this wet mixture into the food processor and mix just until the dough comes together, being careful not to overmix.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently shape it into a round or rectangular disk, about 3/4-inch thick.
- Using a sharp knife or a biscuit cutter, cut the dough into 16 equal wedges or rectangles.
- Transfer the scones to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Brush the tops of the scones lightly with a beaten egg to create a golden-brown crust.
- Bake the scones for 13-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
- Allow the scones to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving.
This recipe makes 16 tasty cherry scones. Each scone has about 185 calories, 24g of carbs, 2g of protein, and 9g of fat. Enjoy these sweet treats with tea, coffee, or your favourite spreads.
Get creative with your scones! Try adding chocolate chips, nuts, or citrus zest. You can also use other fruits like blueberries or raspberries. The options are endless for making your perfect scones.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture and Rise
Mastering cherry scones requires careful temperature control, proper mixing, and precise shaping. These key elements will help you create flaky, perfect scones. Let’s explore how to elevate your baking skills.
Temperature Control Techniques
Tall, flaky scones come from chilled dough. Use ice-cold butter when mixing with flour. This creates a tender, flaky scone texture.
Keep the dough cold until just before baking. This helps maintain the chill and encourages maximum rise.
Proper Mixing Methods
Avoid overmixing the dough, which can make scones tough and dense. Gently fold ingredients until just combined. This gentle approach maintains the delicate scone texture.
Shaping and Cutting Guidance
Don’t roll the dough when shaping your scones. Instead, pat it gently into a round. Use a sharp, floured knife to cut clean, even slices.
This method preserves the flaky layers and ensures even rising during baking. Your cherry scones will have a light and airy texture.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Self-raising flour | 450g |
| Cold butter | 100g |
| Caster sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Buttermilk | 285ml |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
| Fresh or glacé cherries | 100g |
These tips will help you create irresistible cherry scones. Your scones will delight taste buds and impress guests. Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavours in every bite.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines
Keeping your cherry scones fresh and tasty is key. Here are some tips to help you store them properly.
Storing Baked Scones
Let your scones cool fully, then pop them in an airtight box. They’ll stay fresh for 1-2 days at room temp.
Don’t stack scones directly on top of each other. This can make them soggy. Use parchment paper between layers to keep them crisp.
Freezing Scones
To store scones longer, freeze them. Cool them first, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Once frozen, move the scones to a freezer-safe bag or box. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
You can also freeze unbaked scone dough. Shape it into rounds and freeze on a baking sheet. Once firm, transfer to a freezer-safe container.
To bake frozen dough, no need to thaw. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Baked Scones (Room Temperature) | 1-2 days |
| Baked Scones (Frozen) | Up to 3 months |
| Unbaked Scone Dough (Frozen) | Up to 3 months |
Proper storage keeps your scones in top form. Use these tips to enjoy your perfect texture and flavour anytime.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Cherry scones offer a delightful mix of sweet and tangy flavours. Serve them warm with clotted cream and jam for a true British afternoon tea. This classic combination creates a perfect taste experience.
Traditional Accompaniments
- Clotted cream
- Strawberry jam
- Raspberry jam
- Lemon curd
Cherry scones are versatile treats that shine with modern toppings too. Try them with flavoured butters, fruit compotes, or savoury spreads. These options cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
Modern Serving Ideas
- Serve with rosemary-infused butter
- Top with a spoonful of cherry compote
- Pair with a creamy goat cheese spread
- Enjoy with a side of honey-sweetened yoghurt
Cherry scones are perfect for any time of day. They make a comforting breakfast or a decadent dessert. Pair them with black or herbal teas, or a strong coffee.
“Cherry scones are the ultimate treat – the perfect blend of sweet and tangy, with a light and flaky texture that melts in your mouth.”
Conclusion
Cherry scones offer a delightful blend of British tradition and fruity flavour. They bring elegance and comfort to any occasion. With the right techniques, anyone can master baking perfect homemade cherry scones.
The British tea tradition has long been associated with the humble scone. Cherry scones are particularly versatile treats. Serve them warm with clotted cream and strawberry jam for a classic pairing.
You can also experiment with modern flavour combinations for a unique twist. Homemade cherry scones are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. They’re truly indulgent and comforting bakes.
Why not try your hand at this recipe? Bring a bit of British charm to your next tea time or casual gathering.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in cherry scones?
Cherry scones require fresh or dried cherries, all-purpose flour, and cold unsalted butter. Other essential ingredients include heavy cream, eggs, and flavourings like citrus zest and extracts.
How do British scones differ from American biscuits?
British scones are crumbly and dense, with a drier texture than American biscuits. Biscuits are flakier and more layered. Scones are often served with clotted cream and jam.
What types of cherries are best for cherry scones?
Fresh red sweet cherries, like Bing cherries, work well in scones. Dried sour cherries are also a great option. These cherries offer a delightful contrast of sweetness and tartness.
What techniques are important for achieving the perfect scone texture?
Use very cold butter and avoid overmixing the dough for the best texture. Keep the dough chilled until baking to create flakier scones.
Handle the dough gently and cut with a sharp, floured knife. These techniques help achieve the perfect scone texture.
How should cherry scones be stored and frozen?
Store cooled cherry scones in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. To freeze, place baked scones in a freezer-safe bag with parchment paper between layers.
Frozen scones stay fresh for up to 3 months. You can also freeze unbaked scones and bake them directly from frozen.
What are the traditional and modern serving suggestions for cherry scones?
Traditionally, cherry scones are served with clotted cream, jam, and hot tea. Modern twists include pairing them with flavoured butters, fruit compotes, or savoury spreads.
Cherry scones are versatile and can be enjoyed for breakfast, afternoon tea, or dessert. They’re a delightful treat for any occasion.
