What makes the perfect spring morning even sweeter? Freshly baked strawberry scones, made with juicy strawberries and a hint of sugar using a simple homemade recipe. Perfect for a quick and easy breakfast or weeknight treat, these tender scones are a family favorite. Save this idea for a delicious homemade breakfast to enjoy with your loved ones.

Fresh Strawberry Scones

Introduction

Imagine waking up to the sweet aroma of freshly baked scones, infused with the vibrant flavor of strawberries. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a delicious breakfast or brunch treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Our Fresh Strawberry Scones recipe combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with the warmth of freshly baked goods, making it an ideal choice for those looking to impress their family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part? This recipe uses everyday ingredients, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen without breaking the bank or searching for exotic components.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of fresh strawberries, sugar, and a hint of vanilla creates a balanced and delicious flavor profile that’s easy to achieve with readily available ingredients.
• Ease of preparation: With a simple mixing and baking process, these scones are quick to prepare, making them a great option for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the simplicity of the recipe, the end result is a beautifully presented and flavorful treat that’s sure to impress your guests.

Key Ingredients

To make these Fresh Strawberry Scones, you’ll need a few key ingredients, including fresh strawberries, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cold butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. For practical substitutions, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are out of season, and almond milk or other non-dairy milk alternatives can replace regular milk for those with dietary restrictions. The cold butter is essential for creating a flaky texture, so be sure to keep it chilled until you’re ready to use it.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut the cold butter into small pieces and add it to the dry ingredients, using a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass. Do not overmix. Gently fold in the diced strawberries.
3. Step 3: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a circle that is about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick. Use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out scones. Gather the scraps, re-form the dough, and cut out additional scones.
4. Step 4: Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each scone. Brush the tops with a little extra milk or egg wash and sprinkle with granulated sugar. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to keep your butter cold, as this will help create a flaky texture in your scones. If you find that your dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour. Conversely, if it’s too dry, you can add a small amount of milk.
• Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can lead to tough scones. Instead, mix the ingredients just until they come together in a shaggy mass, then gently fold in the strawberries.
• Consider using a variety of strawberry, such as Alpine or Camarosa, for the best flavor and texture.

Heat Control

When baking the scones, it’s essential to keep an eye on the temperature and timing. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the scones for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a scone; if it comes out clean, the scones are ready. If you prefer a crisper exterior, you can bake the scones for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Crunch Factor

The texture of your scones should be tender on the inside and lightly crispy on the outside. To achieve this, make sure to not overmix the dough and to bake the scones at the correct temperature. You can also try brushing the tops with a little extra milk or egg wash before baking to enhance the crunch factor.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a pastry blender to work the cold butter into the dry ingredients, as this will help create a flaky texture in your scones.
• Consider using a silicone mat on your baking sheet, as this will help the scones bake evenly and prevent them from sticking.
• To enhance the flavor of your scones, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to the dough.

Storage Tips

• Leftover scones can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven or microwave.
• To reheat scones, simply wrap them in foil and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Consider using a glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid to store your scones, as this will help keep them fresh and prevent them from becoming stale.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re looking to give your Fresh Strawberry Scones as a gift, consider packaging them in a decorative tin or jar, or wrapping them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also add a personal touch by including a handwritten note or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top of the scones. For a more rustic look, try placing the scones in a paper bag or a wicker basket and tying with twine or ribbon.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the dough for a unique flavor twist.
• Creative toppings: Consider topping your scones with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a few fresh strawberries.
• Ingredient swaps: You can substitute the strawberries with other fruits, such as blueberries or raspberries, or try using different types of milk or flavor extracts.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your scones are too dense or tough, it may be due to overmixing the dough. Try mixing the ingredients just until they come together in a shaggy mass, then gently folding in the strawberries.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have a particular ingredient, such as buttermilk or heavy cream, you can try substituting it with a non-dairy milk alternative or regular milk.
• Over/undercooking signs: If your scones are too brown or crispy, it may be due to overbaking. Conversely, if they are too pale or soft, it may be due to underbaking. Keep an eye on the scones while they are baking and adjust the cooking time as needed.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the scones for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Is it gluten-free? No, this recipe contains all-purpose flour and is not gluten-free. However, you can try substituting the flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or coconut flour.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make more scones. Simply multiply the ingredients and follow the same instructions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our Fresh Strawberry Scones recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a beautiful and flavorful breakfast or brunch dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and toppings, and consider sharing your scones with others as a thoughtful gift. Happy baking!