Introduction to Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones
Why you’ll love making scones at home
Have you ever tasted a warm, fluffy scone that seems to melt in your mouth? If not, you're in for a treat! Making scones at home is not only incredibly rewarding but also a delightful way to impress friends and family. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked strawberry lemon cream scones wafting through your kitchen; it’s a scent that instantly puts a smile on anyone’s face.
The beauty of scones lies in their versatility. You can play with flavors, add your favorite fruits, or even experiment with different glazes. These scones are filled with juicy strawberries and zesty lemon, resulting in a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. Plus, the preparation is surprisingly straightforward. With just a handful of ingredients and about 35 minutes of your time, you’ll have a delicious treat perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or even breakfast on the go.
Wondering how to elevate your scone game? Consider pairing them with a dollop of clotted cream or a light drizzle of lemon glaze for that extra touch. For a fun twist, try exploring various fruit combinations or glazes. After all, isn’t baking about experimentation and joy? You can check out BBC Good Food for more delicious scone ideas to inspire you!
Ingredients for Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones
Creating the perfect batch of strawberry lemon cream scones starts with the right ingredients. Let's break these down!
Essential ingredients for the perfect scone
To achieve that classic, flaky texture and delightful flavor, you'll need:
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups plus 2 tablespoons for a solid base.
- Granulated sugar: Just a ¼ cup to add sweetness without overpowering.
- Baking powder: 1 tablespoon for lift and fluffiness.
- Salt: A ½ teaspoon to balance the sweetness.
- Lemon zest: 1 tablespoon to impart that vibrant citrus flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Half a cup, cold and cubed, for rich taste and flaky layers.
- Egg: 1 egg to bind everything together.
- Heavy whipping cream: ¼ cup for moisture and richness.
- Sour cream: Another ¼ cup for tang and tenderness.
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon to enhance that fresh lemony zing.
- Finely chopped strawberries: ¾ cup to bring in the sweet, juicy essence.
Optional ingredients for added flavor
While the essentials will produce a scrumptious scone, consider these optional add-ins for a personalized touch:
- Vanilla extract: ½ teaspoon for a subtle depth of flavor.
- Lemon zest (for glaze): 1 teaspoon to amplify that citrus aroma.
Feel free to explore flavor pairings or check out more about baking techniques at sources like King Arthur Baking or Bon Appetit to elevate your scone-making game!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones
Making strawberry lemon cream scones is an enjoyable process that yields delicious results. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started with this step-by-step guide!
Gather and Measure Your Ingredients
Before diving into mixing, it's essential to gather all the required ingredients, ensuring you have everything within reach. You will need:
- 2 cups + 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream (plus more for brushing)
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup finely chopped strawberries
Having these ingredients measured out lets you focus on the fun part: baking!
Combine Dry Ingredients for the Scone Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, lemon zest, and salt. This mix is crucial for creating that light texture we all love in scones. For added tips on working with flour, check out this resource.
Cut in the Butter for That Flaky Texture
Using a fork or a pastry cutter, cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is vital—having small bits of butter in your dough will create those delightful flaky layers. The cold butter will melt while baking, leaving pockets that help produce that sought-after texture.
Mix Wet Ingredients and Combine
In another bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, sour cream, egg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Gradually add this wet mixture into your dry ingredients. It's important to mix until just combined; over-mixing can lead to tough scones, and nobody wants that!
Fold in Fresh Strawberries Carefully
Gently fold in the finely chopped strawberries, being careful not to crush them too much. The strawberries provide not only sweetness but also a lovely burst of flavor in each bite of your strawberry lemon cream scones.
Shape and Cut the Scone Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it gently into a circle about 1 inch thick and use a sharp knife or a scone cutter to cut it into 8 equal triangles. This method creates a lovely rustic feel that’s perfect for brunch or afternoon tea.
Preheat the Oven and Prepare to Bake
While cutting your scones, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your scones rise beautifully. Place the cut scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush them with a little heavy cream for that extra shine.
Bake Until Golden and Delicious
Pop your scones into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-16 minutes or until they are golden brown. The smell wafting through your kitchen during this time will be mouthwatering and tantalizing—prepare for the compliments to roll in!
Now you're all set to enjoy your homemade strawberry lemon cream scones! Don’t forget to experiment with the glaze as mentioned in the full recipe for an extra touch of sweetness. Happy baking!
Variations of Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones
Berry Mix Scones with Raspberries and Blueberries
If you're looking to shake things up, try adding a mix of berries into your strawberry lemon cream scones! Raspberries and blueberries complement the sweet strawberries while adding a delightful tartness. Just be sure to keep the total berry quantity the same. Not only do these variations introduce new flavors, but they also create a visually stunning treat.
Lemon Lavender Twist for an Aromatic Touch
For a sophisticated twist, consider infusing your strawberry lemon cream scones with a hint of lavender. A tablespoon of culinary lavender can add a beautiful aroma and floral note that pairs wonderfully with lemon. Just be cautious not to overwhelm the delicate flavor balance. This unique blend makes an eye-catching dessert perfect for tea parties or special occasions.
Exploring these variations not only enhances your baking repertoire but also elevates your enjoyment of this classic treat. So, which version will you try first?
Baking Tips and Notes for Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones
How to prevent soggy scones
To ensure your strawberry lemon cream scones have a delightful texture, it’s essential to prevent excess moisture. Start by selecting firm strawberries and, if they’re particularly juicy, pat them dry with a paper towel before adding them to the dough. Also, consider reducing other wet ingredients slightly to maintain the right balance.
The role of lemon zest and juice in flavor balance
Lemon zest and juice are key players in achieving a harmonious flavor profile in your strawberry lemon cream scones. The zest adds vibrant aroma and depth, while the juice introduces that much-loved tanginess. This balance helps to counteract the sweetness of the strawberries, creating a more dynamic and enjoyable scone. For more baking insights, check out King Arthur Baking for expert tips!
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones
Pairing Scones with Your Favorite Tea
Enjoying strawberry lemon cream scones with a comforting cup of tea can elevate your afternoon tea experience. Consider classic pairings like Earl Grey or a light chamomile; their floral notes complement the tangy lemon and sweet strawberries beautifully. For something different, a refreshing green tea can enhance the scone's flavors while providing a health boost. Don't hesitate to experiment and find your perfect match!
Creative Toppings: Whipped Cream and Fruit Spreads
To take your strawberry lemon cream scones to the next level, explore delightful toppings. A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds richness, while fruit spreads like strawberry or lemon curd offer a tangy twist. You might even try a homemade berry compote for a burst of flavor! Layering these on a warm scone not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also creates a delicious medley of tastes.
Time Breakdown for Making Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones
Preparation Time
You’ll need about 20 minutes to gather your ingredients and whip up the dough for these delightful strawberry lemon cream scones. Take your time to enjoy the process—remember, great baking is all about love!
Baking Time
Once your scones are ready to go, they’ll bake for about 15 minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on them as they transform into golden-brown treasures!
Total Time Involved
In just 35 minutes, you can go from kitchen novice to scone connoisseur. How satisfying is it to create something so delicious in under an hour? Perfect for brunch or a cozy tea time!
For tips on how to make these scones even better, check out King Arthur Baking's resources!
Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones
Calories and Other Key Nutrients per Serving
Each serving of strawberry lemon cream scones (1 scone) typically contains:
- Calories: Approximately 210
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g
These delightful scones pack a flavorful punch with the sweetness of strawberries and the zest of lemon, making them a delicious treat in moderation. For more on healthy dessert options, check out this nutrition guide.
FAQs about Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If you have frozen strawberries on hand, they can work just as well in your strawberry lemon cream scones. Just be sure to thaw and drain them first to remove excess moisture. This will help maintain the perfect texture in your scones. Remember, fresh strawberries are usually recommended for best flavor and consistency, but frozen can be a great alternative, especially in off-seasons.
How should I store leftover scones?
To keep your strawberry lemon cream scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 1-2 days. If you're looking to enjoy them for longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week. For extended storage, you can wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze them. This way, they stay delicious and ready for whenever your sweet tooth strikes!
What's the best way to reheat scones?
Reheating your scones is simple! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then place the scones on a baking sheet. Heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. If you prefer a softer texture, you can also warm them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Enjoy them fresh and warm with your favorite tea!
For more baking tips and scone variations, check out resources from King Arthur Baking or BBC Good Food.
Conclusion on Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones
In summary, these strawberry lemon cream scones are not just delightful; they’re a sweet fusion of flavors that’ll elevate your baking game. Perfect for brunch or a cozy afternoon tea, they are simple to make and sure to impress. Bake a batch and enjoy a taste of sunshine!
Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones
Equipment
- bowl
- fork or pastry cutter
- baking sheet
- oven
Ingredients
Scones
- 250 grams all-purpose flour you may need a bit more if your strawberries release a lot of moisture
- 50 grams granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 115 grams unsalted butter cubed and cold
- 1 unit egg
- 60 ml heavy whipping cream plus more for brushing
- 60 ml sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 150 grams strawberries finely chopped
Glaze
- 125-190 grams powdered sugar 1-1 ½ cups
- 2-3 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, lemon zest and salt. Once combined, cut in the butter with a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
- Whisk together the heavy cream, sour cream, egg, lemon juice and vanilla extract. Slowly add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and mix until just combined.
- Stir in the strawberries and mix until just combined.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, and pat into a 2.5 cm – 1" thick circle. Cut it into 8 triangles. Put them on a baking sheet lined with baking paper.
- Brush the tops of each scone with a little bit of heavy cream.
- Bake them in a preheated oven at 200°C – 400°F for 15-16 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown.
- While the scones are cooling, mix together the powdered sugar (starting with 125 gms – 1 cup), lemon juice (beginning with 2 tbsp) and lemon zest. If the glaze seems too thin, add in more powdered sugar. If it seems too thick, add in more lemon juice.
- Pour the glaze over the scones and enjoy!
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