Oh my goodness, have you ever tasted a lemon scone? Let me tell you, they’re a burst of sunshine in pastry form! These lemon scones are light and fluffy, with that perfect tangy lemon flavor that makes your taste buds dance. I love how easy they are to whip up, making them ideal for a cozy breakfast or a delightful afternoon treat. Trust me, once you take a bite of these buttery, zesty scones, you’ll be hooked! They’re not just delicious; they’re also a great way to brighten up your day. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Ingredients for Lemon Scones
To make these delightful lemon scones, you’ll need the following ingredients, which are simple yet essential for achieving that light, fluffy texture and vibrant flavor. Start with 2 cups of all-purpose flour, which provides the base. Then, add 1/4 cup of sugar to sweeten them just right. Don’t forget 1 tablespoon of baking powder for that perfect rise and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to balance the flavors. For that buttery richness, use 1/2 cup of cold, cubed butter. You’ll also need 1/2 cup of milk, along with the zest and juice of 1 lemon to ensure a tangy burst in every bite. Trust me, these ingredients come together to create something truly magical!
How to Prepare Lemon Scones
Making lemon scones is a breeze, and I promise you’ll feel like a baking superstar by the time you’re done! First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Give it a good mix to ensure everything’s evenly combined. Next, add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is key for that light texture!
Now, pour in the milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir gently until everything is just combined—don’t overmix! Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it gently just a couple of times to bring it together. Shape it into a circle about 1-inch thick and cut it into wedges. Place those lovely scones on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and your kitchen smells like a lemony paradise. Let them cool a bit before serving, and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold butter and mix until it looks crumbly.
- Stir in the milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice until just combined.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently.
- Shape into a circle and cut into wedges.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- Let cool before serving.
Nutritional Information
These lemon scones are a delightful treat that packs a tasty punch! Each scone contains approximately 200 calories, with 6g of sugar, 10g of fat, and 3g of protein. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. Enjoy them as part of a balanced breakfast!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These lemon scones come together in just about 35 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute breakfast option.
- Bright Flavor: The fresh lemon zest and juice provide a zesty kick that elevates your morning routine.
- Fluffy Texture: Thanks to the cold butter and gentle mixing, you’ll achieve that light and fluffy texture every time.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them plain, or drizzle with a lemon glaze for an extra touch of sweetness!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy brunch or an afternoon tea, these scones are sure to impress your guests.
Tips for Success with Lemon Scones
To ensure your lemon scones turn out perfectly every time, here are my top tips! First, make sure your butter is cold—this is crucial for that fluffy texture, so don’t skip the cubing and chilling step! Also, when mixing the dough, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to tough scones, and we want them light and tender. If you want a golden finish, brush the tops with a bit of milk or egg wash before baking. And remember, every oven is different, so keep an eye on your scones as they bake, especially towards the end of the timer. You’ve got this!
Serving Suggestions for Lemon Scones
To create a delightful breakfast experience, serve your lemon scones with a side of fresh fruit! Think juicy berries or sliced strawberries—they add a lovely sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tangy scones. For a bit of creaminess, consider a dollop of clotted cream or whipped butter. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle some lemon glaze over the scones for an extra touch of sweetness and that beautiful shine! And don’t forget a steaming cup of tea or coffee to wash it all down. Trust me, this combination will elevate your breakfast to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your leftover lemon scones fresh and tasty, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, pop them in the fridge, where they can last for about a week. When it’s time to enjoy them again, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the scones on a baking sheet. Warm them up for about 5-10 minutes until they’re nice and toasty. You can also microwave them for 15-20 seconds if you’re in a hurry, but the oven method preserves their delightful texture best!
FAQ About Lemon Scones
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Just keep in mind that the texture may be a bit denser.
What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
Don’t worry! You can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemons really pack that vibrant flavor. If using bottled, start with a bit less and adjust to taste.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaping.
How do I know when the scones are done?
Look for a nice golden-brown color on top. You can also gently tap the bottom of a scone; it should sound hollow if it’s fully baked.
Can I freeze lemon scones?
Definitely! Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for about 2 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!
Lemon scones that brighten your day in 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon scones are light and fluffy pastries with a tangy lemon flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add cold butter and mix until crumbly.
- Stir in milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice until combined.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently.
- Shape into a circle and cut into wedges.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Adjust sugar according to your taste.
- For extra flavor, add a lemon glaze on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: lemon scones, pastries, breakfast recipes
