Perfect Cherry Scones Recipe: Light and Delicious
Cherry scones are a beloved British teatime treat. This recipe creates light, flaky scones with a sweet fruity flavour. Ready in 20 minutes, they’re perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or dessert.
The recipe uses glacé cherries for convenience and visual appeal. It results in a buttery scone with a flaky texture that’s sure to impress.
These British scones are a delightful addition to any afternoon tea spread. Enjoy them on their own or with clotted cream. Your taste buds will thank you for this light, delicious treat.
Introduction to Traditional British Cherry Scones
Cherry scones are a cherished British teatime treat. They’re loved for their light texture and fruity flavour. These classic bakes have a rich history, originating in 11th-century Scotland.
Summer is the prime time for fresh cherry scones. However, glacé cherries allow year-round enjoyment. In Michigan, cherry season brings lively festivals, perfect for savouring homemade scones.
British scones differ from their American cousins. They’re round with a flakier crumb. Served with clotted cream or butter, they complement the sweet cherries perfectly.
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This combination of teatime traditions creates a truly indulgent experience. It’s a quintessentially British treat that’s hard to resist.
“A freshly baked cherry scone, served with a cup of aromatic tea, is the embodiment of British baking at its finest.”
Essential Ingredients for Cherry Scones Recipe
Perfect cherry scones need a few key ingredients. All-purpose flour, baking powder, and caster sugar form the base. These dry components give structure, rise, and sweetness to the scones.
Key Dry Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 ½ cups (313 grams)
- Baking powder: 1 tablespoon
- Caster sugar: ⅓ cup (67 grams)
- Kosher salt: ½ teaspoon
Fresh Components
You’ll need cold unsalted butter, full-fat milk or heavy cream, and cherries. These wet ingredients create a tender, flaky texture in the scones.
- Unsalted butter: 6 tablespoons, very cold
- Heavy whipping cream: ½ cup (125 ml)
- Cherries: 1 ½ cups of pitted, cut fresh or glacé cherries
Optional Add-ins
To boost flavour, try adding vanilla or almond extract. These extras can make your scones even tastier.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Almond extract: 1 teaspoon
Choose between tart or sweet cherries based on your taste. Dried cherries work too, but may need soaking first.
Kitchen Equipment and Preparation Steps
Cherry Scones require specific tools and preparation. You’ll need a baking sheet, parchment paper, and a mixing bowl. Measuring cups, spoons, and a pastry blender or fork are also essential.
For shaping, use a cookie cutter or drinking glass. Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Measure and prepare all ingredients beforehand. This will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pastry blender or fork
- Cookie cutter or drinking glass
Now you’re ready to create delightful Cherry Scones. Let’s explore the step-by-step baking method next!
Step-by-Step Baking Method
Dough Preparation
Let’s start by making the dough for our tasty cherry scones. Mix dry ingredients in a large bowl: self-raising flour, baking powder, and caster sugar. Rub in cold butter until the mixture looks like breadcrumbs.
This cold butter technique gives scones their light, flaky texture. Fold in glacé cherries and slowly add milk. Mix until the dough comes together, but don’t overwork it.
The dough should be slightly sticky but easy to handle. Overworking can make scones tough and dense, so be gentle.
Shaping and Baking
Heat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan) and line a baking sheet. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to 2 cm thick. Cut out scones with a cutter or knife.
Press down firmly to seal edges, helping scones rise evenly. Place scones on the baking sheet, leaving space between them. Brush tops with milk and sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Watch closely as baking time may vary. Let scones cool slightly before serving.
Storage Tips and Serving Suggestions
Keep your cherry scones fresh and tasty with these storage tips. Store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them for 3-4 days.
Freeze scones for 1-2 months to enjoy them later. To serve, defrost at room temperature and warm in the oven or microwave.
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature (Airtight Container) | 1-2 days |
| Refrigerator (Airtight Container) | 3-4 days |
| Freezer | 1-2 months |
Enhance your cherry scones with delicious toppings. Try spreading them with butter, clotted cream, or your favourite jam. Pair these treats with tea or coffee for a perfect breakfast or afternoon snack.
“A freshly baked scone, still warm from the oven, is one of life’s simple pleasures.”
Conclusion
Homemade scones are a true delight. This Perfect Cherry Scones recipe showcases the best of British baking. These scones boast a light, flaky texture and delightful cherry flavour.
Use fresh, frozen, or glacé cherries for a marvellous teatime treat. Serve with tea, clotted cream, and tangy lemon curd. This combination offers an indulgent and satisfying experience.
Ready your baking tray and preheat the oven. Prepare to savour the perfect blend of buttery, fruity goodness. These Perfect Cherry Scones will transport you to the heart of British culinary tradition.
FAQ
What are cherry scones?
Cherry scones are a tasty British teatime treat. These flaky, fluffy scones have a sweet fruity flavour from cherries. They’re light and perfect for a relaxing afternoon break.
What ingredients are used in cherry scones?
Cherry scones need flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and cold butter. You’ll also need milk or cream, and cherries. Vanilla or almond extract can add extra flavour.
How long does it take to make cherry scones?
These cherry scones are quick to make, taking only 20 minutes. They’re perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or dessert. You can enjoy them any time of day.
When is cherry season?
In Michigan, July is cherry season. Traverse City celebrates with a Cherry Festival. Fresh cherries are best in summer, but glacé cherries work year-round.
How should cherry scones be stored and reheated?
Keep scones in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. They’ll last 3-4 days in the fridge. You can freeze them for up to 2 months.
To reheat, let them thaw at room temperature. Then warm them in the oven or microwave.
What are some serving suggestions for cherry scones?
Serve cherry scones with butter, clotted cream, or jam. They go well with tea or coffee. Enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea.
How can I achieve the best texture for cherry scones?
For light, flaky scones, don’t overwork the dough. Use cold butter and handle the dough gently. This will give you the ideal scone texture.
