Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is essential for creating those fluffy, golden scones.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest. The lemon zest adds a bright note that complements the sweet strawberries beautifully.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This technique is vital for achieving a flaky scone texture.
Step 4: Add Strawberries
- Gently fold in the diced strawberries. You want to do this carefully to avoid crushing them. Each piece should retain its shape.
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. This creamy mixture will bring everything together.
Step 6: Mix the Dough
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. The dough might look a bit messy—that’s okay! It should be soft and slightly sticky.
Step 7: Shape the Scones
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut the circle into wedges (like a pizza) or use a biscuit cutter for round shapes.
Step 8: Prepare for Baking
- Place the scones on a lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with whole milk. This step helps achieve that lovely golden color. Sprinkle with coarse sugar for added sweetness and crunch.
Step 9: Bake
- Slide the baking sheet into the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
Step 10: Optional Glaze
- If you'd like to add a glaze, combine the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Drizzle over the cooled scones.
Notes
- Use Cold Ingredients: The colder your butter and cream, the better the scones will rise. Keep them in the fridge until you need them.
- Don’t Overmix: When you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing leads to tough scones.
- Chill the Dough: If time allows, chill the shaped scones for about 20 minutes before baking. This step improves texture.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips, different fruits, or nuts. The recipe is flexible!
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens vary. Check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time to avoid over-baking.
