Easy Homemade Maple Scones Recipe: A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion
Scones are a beloved treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you’re looking for a delicious breakfast option, a delightful afternoon snack, or a sweet addition to your tea time, scones fit the bill perfectly. This easy homemade maple scones recipe is not only simple to follow but also yields scrumptious results that will impress your family and friends. With a rich maple flavor and a tender, flaky texture, these scones are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Maple Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
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Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should be evenly distributed, but small pea-sized pieces should remain.
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Combine Wet Ingredients:
Form the Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough scones.
Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times to bring it together, then shape it into a round disk about 1 inch thick. Using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, cut the disk into 8 equal wedges.
Bake the Scones: Place the scone wedges onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Maple Glaze: While the scones are baking, prepare the maple glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and maple syrup. Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the glaze reaches your desired consistency.
Glaze the Scones: Once the scones are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Drizzle the maple glaze over the warm scones, allowing it to set before serving.
Tips for Perfect Scones:
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Use Cold Butter: Cold butter is essential for creating the flaky texture of scones. Make sure your butter is very cold, and consider chilling it in the freezer for a few minutes before using.
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Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough scones. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, and handle the dough as little as possible.
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Chill the Dough: If your kitchen is warm, consider chilling the dough for 10-15 minutes before baking. This helps the scones maintain their shape and rise properly.
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Experiment with Add-Ins: While this recipe focuses on maple flavor, feel free to add in your favorite mix-ins such as chopped nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips for a unique twist.
This easy homemade maple scones recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic treat with a flavorful twist. The rich maple glaze adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the tender, flaky scones. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, these scones are sure to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up a batch of these delicious scones in no time. Enjoy them fresh from the oven with a cup of tea or coffee, and savor the comforting taste of homemade goodness.
