Lemon Scones

Made with fresh lemon juice and zest, these Lemon Scones have a bright tart and sweet flavor finished with a delicious drizzle of lemony icing. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, they’re like a ray of sunshine on a plate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The combination of lemon juice and zest gives these scones a refreshing taste that’s perfect for any time of day.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these scones in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for brunch, tea parties, or as a snack.
• Freezer Friendly: Bake them fresh whenever you want by freezing unbaked scone dough for later use.
• Customizable: Add in your choice of fruits or flavors to create variations like Lemon Blueberry Scones or Lemon Poppy Seed Scones.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Lemon Scones, gather your essential tools and prepare your workspace.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Pastry blender (or two forks)
• Bench scraper
• Baking pan lined with parchment paper or silicone mat

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry ingredients and wet mixtures without spills.
• Pastry blender: Helps incorporate butter into the flour quickly while maintaining its cold temperature for flaky scones.
• Bench scraper: Useful for shaping dough and cutting scones cleanly without sticking to surfaces.

Ingredients

For the Scone Base

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, grated or cubed)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 2 lemons)
• ½ cup heavy cream (plus extra for brushing on top)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Icing

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for drizzling)

How to Make Lemon Scones

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400 °F. Line a half-sheet baking pan with a Silpat silicone mat or parchment paper. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
2. ⅓ cup granulated sugar
3. 2 teaspoons baking powder
4. ½ teaspoon baking soda
5. ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Step 3: Incorporate the Butter

Toss in the cold unsalted butter into the flour mixture to coat it. Use a pastry blender, two forks, or your hands to work the butter into the mixture until you see coarse, pea-sized crumbs. Be careful not to overmix; you want some butter pieces intact.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. ½ cup heavy cream
2. 1 large egg
3. 2 tablespoons lemon juice
4. 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the lemon mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix gently until the dough just holds together. If it feels too crumbly or too wet, adjust with more cream or flour by adding one tablespoon at a time.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a rough square. Fold it in half several times to create flaky layers.

Step 7: Chill the Dough

Flatten the dough into a circle about six inches wide (or rectangle if making square scones). Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 8: Cut Out Scones

After chilling:
– For wedges: Roll out to an eight-inch circle; cut into eight wedges.
– For rounds: Roll out to about three-quarters of an inch thick; cut with a cookie cutter.
– For squares: Roll out into a rectangle; cut into twelve squares.

Step 9: Bake

Place shaped scones on your prepared baking pan, brush tops with heavy cream, and sprinkle with coarse sugar. Bake for about 18 to 20 minutes until golden brown.

Step 10: Make the Icing

Sift powdered sugar into a bowl, then mix in one tablespoon of lemon juice at first; add more as needed until smooth.

Step 11: Drizzle Icing

Let baked scones cool slightly before drizzling them with icing using your cooling rack to catch any drips.

Now enjoy your freshly baked Lemon Scones!

How to Serve Lemon Scones

Lemon scones are a delightful treat that can brighten up any meal or snack time. They can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and appeal.

With Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Serve with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
• Citrus Slices: Pair with orange or grapefruit slices to complement the lemon’s brightness.

With Creamy Spreads

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a luxurious touch.
• Cream Cheese: Spread with flavored cream cheese for a rich and tangy pairing.

With Beverages

• Herbal Tea: Enjoy with a cup of chamomile or mint tea for a soothing experience.
• Lemonade: Pair with chilled lemonade for a double dose of citrus.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Mixed Pastries: Serve alongside other baked goods like muffins or croissants for variety.
• Savory Dishes: Include items like quiche or frittata to balance the sweetness of the scones.

How to Perfect Lemon Scones

Perfecting your lemon scones can elevate them from good to exceptional. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect bake.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Keep your butter and cream cold to create flaky layers in your scones.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined; overworking the dough can lead to dense scones.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough before baking to maintain its structure and enhance flakiness.
• Brush with Cream: Before baking, brushing the tops with heavy cream gives a beautiful golden finish.
• Adjust for Humidity: On humid days, you may need slightly more flour; on dry days, add more cream as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Scones

To make your lemon scone experience even better, consider serving these side dishes that complement their zesty flavor.

1. Greek Yogurt: A creamy addition that balances sweetness; serve plain or with honey.
2. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and acidity.
3. Chia Seed Pudding: Light and nutritious, this dish pairs well with lemon zest on top.
4. Savory Herb Cheese Spread: A creamy spread that contrasts beautifully with sweet scones.
5. Cucumber Sandwiches: Light, refreshing bites that provide a nice textural contrast to scones.
6. Honey Butter: A sweet, creamy spread that enhances the scone’s flavor profile without overpowering it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Lemon Scones can be simple, but a few common mistakes can derail your efforts. Here are some tips to ensure your scones turn out perfectly.

• Boldly measure ingredients – Using incorrect measurements can alter the scone’s texture. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
• Don’t overmix the dough – Mixing too much can lead to tough scones. Gently combine until just incorporated for a light and fluffy result.
• Keep butter cold – If the butter warms up, it won’t create flaky layers. Use cold grated or cubed butter for best results.
• Chill the dough – Skipping the chilling step can cause scones to spread during baking. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for optimal shape and texture.
• Watch the baking time – Overbaking can dry out your scones. Keep an eye on them and remove once they’re golden brown.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
• • They stay good for about 3 to 5 days.

Freezing Lemon Scones

• • For longer storage, freeze unbaked scones in a ziplock bag.
• • Baked and glazed scones can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Scones

• Oven – Preheat to 350 °F, place scones on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for 4-5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Lemon Scones that may help clarify the process further.

What are Lemon Scones?

Lemon Scones are delightful baked goods made with fresh lemon juice and zest, often enjoyed as breakfast or a snack.

Can I make Lemon Scones vegan?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk, and replace the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water or applesauce.

How do I get my Lemon Scones fluffy?

Make sure not to overmix the dough; this helps retain air pockets that make the scones fluffy when baked.

Can I add fruits to my Lemon Scones?

Absolutely! Adding blueberries or cranberries enhances flavor and adds moisture without compromising texture.

How should I serve Lemon Scones?

Lemon Scones are delicious served warm or at room temperature. Pair them with tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat!

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Scones are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can enjoy them plain, glazed, or even customized with fruits. Give this recipe a try; your family and friends will love you for it!