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If you’re craving a sweet treat, these Cherry Almond Scones are just what you need! I’ll share a simple recipe that combines juicy cherries and nutty almond flavor, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. You won’t just enjoy baking these delightfully fluffy scones; you’ll impress your friends and family too! Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps for this irresistible treat!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The pairing of sweet cherries and nutty almond flour creates a delightful flavor profile that is both unique and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: This scone recipe is straightforward with minimal steps, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a brunch, tea time, or just a cozy snack, these scones fit wonderfully into any setting.
- Customizable Recipe: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding other fruits or nuts, allowing for endless variations to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients List
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients List
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/2 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Optional Add-ins
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
In this recipe, I use a mix of all-purpose flour and almond flour. The almond flour gives the scones a nice nutty taste. The sugar adds sweetness, while the baking powder helps them rise. Don't forget the salt; it brings out all the flavors.
For the wet ingredients, I use chilled butter. Cold butter makes the scones flaky. Cherries are the star here, giving a burst of flavor. Heavy cream makes the dough rich and soft. Almond extract enhances the almond flavor. The egg wash is for a shiny finish on top.
If you want to jazz up your scones, add sliced almonds. They add crunch and a lovely look. Enjoy this simple yet delightful mix of ingredients!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps Overview
To make cherry almond scones, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, almond flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix them well. Next, add the cold butter cubes. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until it looks like coarse crumbs. Gently fold in the chopped cherries and sliced almonds. In a separate bowl, mix heavy cream and almond extract. Slowly add this to the dry mix and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it gently. Shape it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut this circle into 8 wedges. Place them on your prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a nice golden color. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Baking Tips for Perfect Scones
For perfect scones, keep the butter very cold. This helps create a flaky texture. Do not overwork the dough. Mixing too much makes them tough. Instead, mix just until combined. If you want more flavor, try adding a bit of vanilla or lemon zest. Watch your scones closely while baking. Every oven is different, and you want them just golden.
Cooling and Serving Suggestions
After baking, let the scones cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. This step helps them set up nicely. Serve them warm for the best taste. You can dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a pretty look. Garnish with whole cherries and almond slivers. Try pairing them with clotted cream or your favorite jam for a delicious treat. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the right texture in your Cherry Almond Scones, use cold butter. Cold butter keeps the scones flaky. Cut the butter into the flour until it looks like coarse crumbs. This step is key! Don’t overmix your dough. Mix just until everything comes together. This keeps the scones light and airy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is using warm butter. This will make your scones dense. Another mistake is overworking the dough. Knead it gently and only until combined. Lastly, don’t skip the egg wash. Brushing the scones adds a nice golden color.
How to Enhance Flavor
To boost flavor, use fresh cherries. They add sweetness and moisture. Almond extract enhances the nutty taste. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth. For extra crunch, sprinkle more sliced almonds on top before baking. These small changes make a big difference!
Pro Tips
- Use Chilled Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream are well-chilled to ensure flaky scones. The cold fat creates steam during baking, leading to a lighter texture.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense scones instead of light and fluffy ones.
- Customize Your Fruit: Feel free to substitute cherries with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile while maintaining the same basic recipe.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the scones towards the end of the baking time. They should be golden brown and firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Variations
Gluten-Free Cherry Almond Scones
To make gluten-free cherry almond scones, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Use one that includes xanthan gum for the best texture. You still want to mix the gluten-free flour with almond flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Follow the same steps for adding butter and cherries. The result will be just as tasty!
Vegan Cherry Almond Scones
For vegan cherry almond scones, replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Use non-dairy milk instead of heavy cream. Almond milk works well, but any non-dairy milk will do. You can skip the egg wash or brush the scones with almond milk. The scones will still rise nicely and taste amazing!
Alternative Fruit Options
You can switch out cherries for other fruits. Try blueberries, raspberries, or diced peaches. Each fruit brings its own flavor and sweetness. Adjust the sugar level if needed, especially with very sweet fruits. This lets you explore a range of flavors and find your favorite!
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Scones
To keep your cherry almond scones fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their moisture and flavor. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. You can leave them at room temperature for up to two days. If you need them to last longer, consider refrigeration. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing is a great option for scones. First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped scones in a freezer bag or container. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, take them out and let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips
To reheat scones, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet and cover them lightly with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This helps them regain their crispness and warmth. You can also microwave them for a quicker option. Just heat for 15-20 seconds, but be careful not to overdo it. Enjoy your warm scones with a bit of jam or cream!
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first. Frozen cherries may add extra moisture. You might need to reduce the cream slightly to balance it. This change keeps your scones fluffy and light.
What can I substitute for almond flour?
You can use all-purpose flour instead of almond flour. This swap works well but changes the flavor and texture. If you want a nutty taste, try using hazelnut flour or ground sunflower seeds. These options keep the scone delicious!
How do I know when the scones are done baking?
Check for a golden brown color on the tops. The edges should feel slightly crisp. You can also insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the scones are ready. This way, you can enjoy perfect scones every time!
You can create delicious cherry almond scones with the right mix of ingredients. Focus on wet and dry ingredients, plus some optional add-ins for extra flavor. Follow the step-by-step guide for perfect results, from baking tips to cooling suggestions. Remember to avoid common mistakes and ensure the texture is just right. You can even try gluten-free or vegan variations. Store them well, and follow my reheating tips for fresh taste. With these insights, you can make tasty scones any time. Enjoy your baking!
Cherry Almond Scones
Delicious scones made with fresh cherries and almond flour, perfect for a sweet treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- 3
Add the chilled butter cubes into the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work them into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- 4
Gently fold in the chopped cherries and sliced almonds, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
- 5
In a separate bowl, mix together the heavy cream and almond extract. Slowly add this to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- 6
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently just to bring it together. Pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick.
- 7
Cut the circle into 8 wedges and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top of each scone with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- 8
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the scones are golden brown and the edges are slightly crisp.
- 9
Let the scones cool on a wire rack slightly before serving.
Chef's Notes
Serve warm on a rustic wooden board and dust lightly with powdered sugar. Garnish with a few whole cherries and almond slivers for an appealing look. Enjoy with a side of clotted cream or your favorite jam!
