Name: Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 36 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all purpose flour; 2 Tbsp white sugar; 1 Tbsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 Tbsp lemon zest; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cubed and cold); 1 large egg; 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream (plus more for brushing); 1/4 cup sour cream; 1 Tbsp lemon juice; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 3/4 cup strawberries (finely chopped); 1 cup powdered sugar (starting amount); 2 Tbsp lemon juice (starting amount); 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)

Introduction to Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones

If you're looking for a sweet treat that perfectly balances tangy and sweet, look no further than strawberry lemon cream scones. These scones are not just a delicious breakfast option; they're a delightful indulgence for any time of day! The combination of fresh strawberries and zesty lemon creates a flavor explosion that dances on your palate. Adding cream into the mix makes them incredibly rich and fluffy, giving each bite a sumptuous texture.

What makes strawberry lemon cream scones so delightful? These treats are incredibly versatile — you can enjoy them warm with a bit of butter, drizzle them with a zesty lemon glaze, or even pair them with your favorite tea. Plus, they're easy to make! Imagine serving them at a brunch gathering or whipping them up as an afternoon snack.

If you enjoy baking—or simply want to impress your friends and family—these scones are the perfect recipe to add to your repertoire. Not only can you find strawberries year-round, but you can also get creative with variations, using different fruits or even adding chocolate chips. For more inspiration, check out resources like Baker's Corner or EatingWell for tips on elevating your scone game!

Ingredients for Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones

Creating the perfect batch of strawberry lemon cream scones starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Scones

2 cups + 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour: The backbone of your scones, providing structure.
¼ cup white sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the lemon.
1 tablespoon baking powder: Essential for that light and fluffy texture.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
1 tablespoon lemon zest: Brings a bright, citrusy note to every bite.
½ cup unsalted butter (cubed and cold): Cold butter creates flaky layers.
1 egg: Binds the ingredients together.
¼ cup heavy whipping cream (plus more for brushing): Adds richness.
¼ cup sour cream: Contributes moisture and tenderness.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Boosts that zesty flavor profile.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth to your scone’s flavor.
¾ cup strawberries (finely chopped): The star of the show, bursting with sweetness!

For the Glaze

1–1 ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze and gives it that glossy finish.
2–3 tablespoon lemon juice: For a delightful tang.
1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional): A little extra zing never hurt anyone!

With these ingredients ready to go, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your delicious strawberry lemon cream scones. Be sure to check out sources like King Arthur Baking for additional tips on scone-making!

Preparing Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones

Making strawberry lemon cream scones is not just about the final product; it's about the joy of creating something delicious with your own two hands. Let's walk through the process together, step by step, and ensure that you're set up for success in the kitchen!

Prepping your kitchen

Before diving into your scone-making adventure, it's essential to prep your kitchen. Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools. You’ll need measuring cups and spoons, a mixing bowl, a pastry cutter or fork for cutting in the butter, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Organize your space and preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) so it’s ready when you are!

Mixing dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients—2 cups plus 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of white sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest. Stir these together until they are well mixed. This step is crucial as it helps to distribute the leavening agent (baking powder) evenly throughout your dough. Did you know that even a tiny fluctuation in your baking powder can affect the rise of your scones? For great tips on baking fundamentals, check out resources like King Arthur Baking.

Cutting in the butter

Now, it’s time for the fun part: cutting in the butter! Take your ½ cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter and sprinkle it over the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or two forks, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This process is key for achieving that tender, flaky texture we all love so much. Remember, you want small pieces of butter suspended in the mixture—this is what creates those delightful little pockets of steam while baking!

Combining wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: ¼ cup of heavy whipping cream, ¼ cup of sour cream, 1 egg, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Don’t be shy—mix it well! Then, gradually pour this mixture into your dry ingredients. Stir until it’s just combined; over-mixing will lead to tough scones, and nobody wants that!

Bringing it all together

Gently fold in ¾ cup of finely chopped strawberries. If your strawberries are particularly juicy, consider patting them dry with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture in your dough. The burst of flavor from the strawberries paired with the zesty lemon is what makes these strawberry lemon cream scones truly special.

Shaping the scones

Turn your sticky dough onto a well-floured surface and gently pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Using a sharp knife or a pastry cutter, slice the circle into 8 triangles. Place your beautifully cut scones on the prepared baking sheet.

Baking to perfection

Brush the tops of each scone with a bit more heavy cream for a lovely golden brown finish. Bake for 15-16 minutes, or until they are golden and irresistible. The smell wafting through your kitchen at this point will be nothing short of heavenly! Enjoy these delightful scones warm or at room temperature with a drizzle of glaze and your favorite cup of tea.

Now you’re all set to master the art of baking with these delicious strawberry lemon cream scones!

Variations on Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones

Scones with Mixed Berries

Why stick to just strawberries? For a delightful twist, try mixing in your favorite berries—think blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries! The medley of flavors adds depth to your scones, making them even more irresistible. When using mixed berries, be mindful of moisture, as with strawberries; drier options are best to maintain the perfect scone texture.

Lemon Scones with a Blueberry Twist

Feeling adventurous? Craft lemon scones infused with blueberries! By omitting the strawberries and incorporating fresh blueberries, you still get that zingy lemon flavor while enjoying the bursts of sweet blueberries. Pair these lovely scones with a refreshing herbal tea or a light breakfast coffee for a delicious morning treat.

For more berry options, check out this berry salad recipe. Elevate your baking with these variations!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones

When crafting your strawberry lemon cream scones, there are a few helpful tips to ensure your baking experience is a success:

Choose Your Strawberries Wisely: Use firm, less juicy strawberries. If your berries are overly ripe, pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid extra moisture in the dough.
Cold Ingredients Matter: For the flakiest scones, make sure your butter and creams are cold. This helps create those delightful layers we all love.
Don’t Overmix: Combine your wet and dry ingredients until just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense scones instead of light and airy ones!
Experiment with the Glaze: Adjust the lemon juice in the glaze to achieve your preferred sweetness and acidity. It’s easy to make it your own!

Need more guidance? Check out this comprehensive baking guide for additional tips on perfecting your baked goods. Happy baking!

Serving suggestions for Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones

Strawberry lemon cream scones make a delightful addition to any brunch or afternoon tea. Here are some fun and tasty serving suggestions to elevate your scone experience:

Pair with Fresh Berries: Serve your scones with a side of mixed fresh berries. The tartness of raspberries or blueberries complements the sweet and zesty flavor of the scones beautifully.
Add a Creamy Spread: Try a dollop of clotted cream or whipped mascarpone. This adds a rich, luxurious touch that’s simply irresistible.
Beverage Pairings: Complement your scones with a refreshing iced herbal tea or a zesty lemonade for a perfect afternoon treat. If you're feeling adventurous, a citrus-infused sparkling water can also be delightful.

Whichever way you choose to serve your strawberry lemon cream scones, they are sure to impress and satisfy! For more serving ideas, check out this blog for inspiration.

Time Breakdown for Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones

Preparation Time

The preparation time for these delightful strawberry lemon cream scones is around 20 minutes. This quick kickoff includes gathering your ingredients, mixing the dry and wet components, and folding in those juicy strawberries. It’s a breeze, and you'll have your kitchen smelling heavenly in no time!

Baking Time

Once your dough is ready, you’ll pop your scones in the oven for 15 to 16 minutes. Watch them turn golden brown, filling your home with an irresistible aroma. Getting them just right is the fun part—who can resist that fresh-baked appeal?

Total Time

In total, expect to spend about 35 to 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or an afternoon pick-me-up! Plus, you’ll have a warm batch of strawberry lemon cream scones ready to enjoy with your favorite cup of tea or coffee. They are simply a delight!

Feel free to customize these scones further with your favorite mix-ins or glazes. If you want to dive deeper into the baking techniques, check out this great resource on baking scones for more tips and tricks!

Happy baking!

Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones

Calories

These delightful strawberry lemon cream scones pack about 220 calories per scone, making them an indulgent yet manageable treat for your breakfast or tea time.

Protein

Each scone provides around 3 grams of protein, primarily coming from the added egg and dairy ingredients. This little boost can help keep you satisfied throughout the morning.

Sodium

With approximately 200 milligrams of sodium per serving, these scones maintain a balance that should fit comfortably into most diets. Just pair them with a refreshing cup of tea for a perfect pairing!

For more detailed nutritional information, consider checking out resources like the USDA food database and nutritional calculators to tailor these treats to your dietary preferences!

FAQ about Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones

Can I use frozen strawberries instead?

Absolutely! You can use frozen strawberries in your strawberry lemon cream scones. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture. This helps maintain the perfect scone texture without making your dough too wet.

How do I store leftover scones?

To keep your scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to enjoy them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer—just pop them in the oven to reheat!

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of melted butter for a similar richness. Alternatively, coconut cream works well for a dairy-free option, adding a delightful flavor.

For more tips on scone preparation, check out renowned baking resources such as King Arthur Baking. Happy baking!

Conclusion on Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones

Indulging in strawberry lemon cream scones is a delightful experience, perfect for brunch or an afternoon treat. Their buttery, tangy flavor paired with fresh strawberries makes them hard to resist. Remember to share these with friends or family—everyone will love the bright taste and flaky texture! Happy baking!