Cherry Almond Scones Delightful and Simple Recipe

If you’re craving a treat that’s both sweet and nutty, I have the perfect recipe for you: Cherry Almond Scones. These scones are easy to make and burst with flavor. With tender cherries and crunchy almonds, each bite is a delight. I’ll guide you step-by-step, ensuring your baking adventure is fun and stress-free. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Ingredients

Detailed list of ingredients

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/4 cup granulated sugar

- 1 tablespoon baking powder

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped

- 1/4 cup sliced almonds

- 1/2 cup heavy cream

- 1 large egg

- 1 teaspoon almond extract

- 1 tablespoon milk (for brushing)

- Extra sliced almonds for topping

Gathering the right ingredients is key. Each one adds a unique flavor and texture. The all-purpose flour forms the base. Granulated sugar gives sweetness, while baking powder helps the scones rise. Salt balances the flavors and enhances the taste.

Using cold butter is crucial. It creates those flaky layers we love. Cherries provide juicy bites, and sliced almonds add a nice crunch. Heavy cream makes the dough rich and tender. The egg binds everything together, while almond extract gives a lovely nutty aroma.

Don’t forget the milk for brushing! It adds a golden finish. Extra sliced almonds on top make each scone look delightful. This mix of ingredients makes the perfect Cherry Almond Scones. Each bite brings a burst of flavor that is simply irresistible.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping your oven and ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat is perfect for scones. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking. Gather all your ingredients for easy access. You will need flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Grab your cold butter, cherries, and almonds too.

Mixing the dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until they blend well. This step is key for even flavors. Make sure there are no lumps. If you see any, break them up with your whisk. This creates a nice base for your scones.

Combining the wet ingredients

In another bowl, mix the heavy cream, egg, and almond extract. Whisk until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your scones. It’s important to combine these well. Once mixed, set it aside for a moment while you prepare the dry mix.

Forming and cutting the dough

Next, add cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix it in. You want it to look like coarse crumbs. Now, gently fold in the chopped cherries and sliced almonds. Make sure they are evenly spread. Pour the wet mixture into the dry mix. Stir just until combined. Do not overmix; it can make your scones tough. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently a few times and form a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut the dough into 8 wedges. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each scone.

Baking the scones

Brush the tops of the scones with milk. This gives them a nice golden color. Sprinkle extra sliced almonds on top for crunch. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them. You want them golden brown. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted. Once done, take them out and let cool for a few minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack. Enjoy the lovely aroma while they cool!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the perfect scone texture

To get the best scone texture, use cold butter. Cold butter creates flaky layers. Cut the butter into the flour until it looks like crumbs. Don't overmix the dough. Mix just until it comes together. This keeps your scones light and airy.

Ensuring even cooking and browning

Place scones on a lined baking sheet with space in between. This helps hot air flow around them. Brush the tops with milk for a nice sheen. If your oven has hot spots, rotate the baking sheet halfway through. This ensures even cooking and a golden brown finish.

Using fresh vs. frozen cherries

Fresh cherries add a bright flavor to your scones. They also keep their shape well. Frozen cherries work too; just chop them while still frozen. They may release some juice, which can make the dough wetter. If using frozen, reduce the cream slightly. This keeps the right dough consistency.

Variations

Substituting other fruits

You can swap cherries for other fruits. Try blueberries, raspberries, or diced peaches. Each fruit adds a unique taste and color. Just make sure the fruit is chopped small. This helps them mix well in the dough. Fresh or frozen fruit works great! Just remember, frozen fruit may add a bit more moisture. Adjust the flour slightly if needed.

Incorporating different nuts

Almonds are delicious, but you can use other nuts too. Pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch. Chop them into small pieces for even mixing. If you want a richer flavor, try hazelnuts. They pair well with fruity scones. You can even skip nuts if you wish. The scones will still taste great!

Adjusting sweetness or flavor extracts

You can change the sweetness of your scones. If you like them sweeter, add more sugar. A bit of honey or maple syrup can work too. For added flavor, consider using vanilla or coconut extract. These can give your scones a fun twist. Just remember to keep the almond extract if you want that classic taste.

Storage Info

Best practices for storing scones

To keep your Cherry Almond Scones fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place them at room temperature if you plan to eat them within two days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them. Always let them cool completely before sealing.

Reheating tips for optimal freshness

Reheat your scones for the best taste. Use an oven set to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each scone in foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 10 minutes. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Heat in short bursts to avoid sogginess.

Freezing scones for longer storage

Freezing scones is easy and effective. First, let them cool completely. Wrap each scone in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in a freezer bag. Label the bag with the date. They can stay fresh for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat.

FAQs

Can I make these Cherry Almond Scones ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Cherry Almond Scones ahead of time. Prepare the dough, cut it into wedges, and place them on a baking sheet. Cover the sheet with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to bake, just brush the tops with milk and add almonds before baking. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh scones in the morning!

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use whole milk or half-and-half. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or almond milk mixed with a little olive oil. Both options work fine, but the texture might change slightly. The rich flavor of heavy cream helps give scones their tender crumb, so keep that in mind when choosing a substitute.

How do I know when the scones are done baking?

Check the scones after 15 minutes in the oven. They should turn golden brown on top. Insert a toothpick into the center of a scone. If it comes out clean, the scones are done. If there’s wet dough on the toothpick, bake for a few more minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. Enjoy the lovely aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake!

In this post, I shared how to make delicious Cherry Almond Scones. We discussed the key ingredients, simple steps, and helpful tips for perfect scones. You learned about storage methods and creative variations to try. Baking can be fun and rewarding. With these tips, you can enjoy fresh scones at home. Trust your skills and experiment with flavors. Baking makes sweet memories! Enjoy your scones!