Fruit Scones

Welcome to a timeless recipe for Classic Fruit Scones. These scones are perfect for afternoon tea, breakfast, or a sweet snack. They are light, fluffy, and filled with your favorite dried fruits. Follow this detailed guide to create delicious fruit scones that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Table of Contents
Before we start, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients for the fruit scones.

For the Scones:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk or heavy cream, plus extra for brushing
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (150g) mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas, or dried cranberries)
• Zest of one lemon or orange (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dough
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Dried Fruits and Zest: Stir in the mixed dried fruits and lemon or orange zest (if using) until evenly distributed.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk (or heavy cream), egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the flour mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. The dough should be slightly sticky but not overly wet.
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Step 2: Shaping the Scones
Turn Out the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently a few times to bring the dough together.
Shape and Cut the Dough: Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick circle. Using a floured round cutter (about 2-3 inches in diameter), cut out scones and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Re-roll the scraps and continue cutting until all the dough is used.
Brush with Milk or Cream: Brush the tops of the scones with a little extra milk or heavy cream. This will give them a nice golden color when baked.
Step 3: Baking the Scones
Bake the Scones: Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Scones: Remove the scones from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly.
Step 4: Serving the Scones
Serve Warm: Serve the scones warm with butter, clotted cream, and jam. They are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are made.
Tips for Perfect Fruit Scones
Cold Butter: Ensure the butter is cold when cutting it into the flour. This helps create a flaky texture.
Do Not Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to avoid tough scones.
Even Sizing: Cut the scones evenly to ensure they bake uniformly.
Variations and Add-Ins
Different Dried Fruits: Use any combination of dried fruits you like, such as apricots, cherries, or blueberries.
Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm spice flavor.
Glazed Scones: Drizzle the cooled scones with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness.
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Pairing Suggestions
Enhance your scone experience with complementary sides and beverages:

Tea: Serve with a hot cup of tea, such as Earl Grey, English Breakfast, or herbal tea.
Coffee: Pair with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or cappuccino for a delightful morning treat.
Fruit: Serve with fresh fruit or a fruit salad to complement the dried fruits in the scones.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Dry Scones: If the scones are too dry, try adding a little more milk or cream to the dough. Ensure not to overbake them.
Dense Scones: To avoid dense scones, do not overmix the dough and ensure the butter is cold.
Uneven Baking: Make sure the scones are of uniform thickness and size for even baking.
The Joy of Baking: A Satisfying Experience
Baking scones is not only about the delicious result but also the joy of creating something special from scratch. Here are some tips to make your baking experience even more enjoyable:

Music and Ambiance: Play your favorite music or a relaxing playlist to set a cheerful mood in the kitchen.
Involve Others: Invite family or friends to help with the preparation. Baking together can be a fun and bonding experience.
Savor the Process: Take your time with each step, enjoying the aromas, textures, and flavors as you bake.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve mastered the art of making Classic Fruit Scones. This delightful recipe provides a perfect treat for any occasion, combining light, fluffy scones with the rich flavors of dried fruits. The simplicity and deliciousness of these scones will make them a favorite in your household.

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Enjoy the process of baking and sharing these delightful scones with your loved ones. Serve them with your favorite accompaniments and savor every bite. Happy baking!

Key Takeaway
Classic Fruit Scones are a quick, delicious, and easy-to-make treat that combines light, fluffy dough with the rich flavors of dried fruits. This detailed recipe ensures a perfect result every time, making it an ideal choice for afternoon tea, breakfast, or a sweet snack. Embrace the joy of baking to create a memorable and delightful experience.