There’s something truly special about the perfect scone—a tender crumb with a slightly crisp exterior that melts in your mouth. Our Cherry and Almond Scones bring a delightful twist to this classic treat by combining juicy cherries with the rich, nutty flavor of almonds. It’s a match made in heaven that’s both comforting and elegant.
These scones are easy to make and perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a cozy snack. We love how the tart cherries balance the sweetness while the almonds add a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into creating these irresistible Cherry and Almond Scones that will brighten up any day.
Ingredients
To make our Cherry and Almond Scones truly exceptional, we start with carefully measured ingredients that bring out the perfect blend of flavors and textures. Below, you’ll find our categorized ingredient list for easy preparation.
Dry Ingredients
For a light and flaky base, these dry ingredients play a vital role in our recipe:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 3/4 cup dried cherries, chopped
Wet Ingredients
Our wet ingredients add moisture and tenderness to the scones, balancing the dry mix perfectly:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2/3 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure almond extract
Toppings and Garnishes
Finishing touches enhance the cherry and almond flavor and give our scones an inviting appearance:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 2 tablespoons sliced almonds | Adds crunch and visual appeal |
| 1 tablespoon coarse sugar | Adds sparkle and sweetness |
| Optional: Glaze made with 1/4 cup powdered sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon milk | For a glossy finish |
These ingredients set the stage for a delightful baking experience, ensuring our scones come out perfectly every time.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Cherry and Almond Scones, we need the right tools to make the process smooth and efficient. Here’s the essential equipment list for excellent results every time:
- Mixing Bowls
Use a large bowl for combining dry ingredients and a smaller one for wet ingredients. Opt for glass or stainless steel for easy cleaning.
- Pastry Cutter or Food Processor
A pastry cutter helps to cut cold butter into the flour evenly, achieving the tender crumb we want. Alternatively, a food processor can speed up this step but avoid overmixing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precise measurements are critical, especially for our baking powder, salt, and almond extract. Always use leveled measurements to maintain balance.
- Baking Sheet
Use a heavy-duty, rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and allow even heat distribution.
- Cooling Rack
After baking, transfer the scones to a wire cooling rack for proper air circulation. This prevents sogginess and preserves the crisp exterior.
- Whisk and Fork
Whisk the wet ingredients smoothly, and a fork helps to beat the egg before incorporation.
- Sharp Knife or Bench Scraper
For shaping the dough and cutting into triangles or rounds, a sharp blade or bench scraper gives clean edges.
- Pastry Brush
Use a pastry brush to apply egg wash or the optional glaze for that shiny, golden finish.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine ingredients |
| Pastry Cutter | Cut in cold butter |
| Measuring Cups | Accurate measurements |
| Baking Sheet | Bake scones evenly |
| Cooling Rack | Cool scones without sogginess |
| Whisk and Fork | Mix wet ingredients |
| Sharp Knife | Shape and cut dough |
| Pastry Brush | Apply glaze or egg wash |
Using these tools ensures we maintain the delicate balance of crispness and tender crumb characteristic of Cherry and Almond Scones. Equipped properly, we set ourselves up for a seamless baking experience and delightful results.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To enjoy our Cherry and Almond Scones fresh with minimal effort, we recommend preparing the dough or even the formed scones ahead of time. Here’s how you can streamline your baking process:
Preparing the Dough in Advance
- Mix the dough following the recipe until just combined, maintaining all tender and flaky qualities.
- Shape the dough into a disk or rounds as specified.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
This resting period allows the gluten to relax and the flavors to meld, resulting in even flakier scones.
Freezing for Longer Storage
| Step | Instructions | Storage Time |
|---|---|---|
| Freeze raw dough | Shape scones, arrange on baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid | Up to 1 month |
| Transfer frozen scones | Move frozen scones to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container | |
| Bake from frozen | Add 3-5 minutes to baking time, bake directly from freezer without thawing |
Baking Day
- Preheat the oven as directed in the recipe while your dough thaws slightly if refrigerated.
- Brush scones with egg wash or apply toppings.
- Bake until golden brown and cooked through, enabling a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience without rushing the preparation.
“Make-ahead scones let us enjoy the perfect blend of juicy cherries and nutty almonds whenever we like without sacrificing freshness.“
By following these make-ahead instructions, we ensure our Cherry and Almond Scones remain crisp on the outside, tender and buttery on the inside, making them ideal for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea anytime.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create perfectly tender Cherry and Almond Scones with a crisp exterior and delightful flavors. We guide you through each phase from preparation to serving.
Prep: Preparing the Cherries and Almonds
- Chop dried cherries into small, uniform pieces about 1/4 inch to distribute evenly and release their sweetness.
- Toast sliced almonds lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Toasting enhances their nutty aroma and crunch.
- Allow the almonds to cool completely before adding to the dough to maintain texture.
“Properly prepped cherries and almonds create bursts of flavor and crisp texture that define these scones.”
Mixing the Dough
- In a large bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Incorporate the toasted sliced almonds and chopped dried cherries, tossing them through the dry mix to coat evenly.
- Using a pastry cutter or food processor, cut cold cubed unsalted butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized butter pieces visible.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together whole milk, a large egg, and pure almond extract.
- Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix, gently folding with a spatula until just combined. The dough should be slightly sticky but not wet. Avoid overmixing for flaky scones.
| Ingredient Group | Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Ingredients | Sift and combine | Even distribution essential |
| Almonds and Cherries | Toss through dry mix | Ensures uniform dispersion |
| Butter | Cut in until pea-sized pieces | Cold butter creates flakiness |
| Wet Ingredients | Whisk and fold in gently | Avoid overmixing for texture |
Shaping the Scones
- Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it gently into a 1-inch thick round disk, about 8 inches in diameter.
- Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the disk into 8 equal triangular wedges.
- Transfer wedges to a heavy-duty baking sheet lined with parchment, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Brush the tops lightly with milk or egg wash.
- Sprinkle with sliced almonds and coarse sugar for an attractive crunch and sweetness boost.
“Shaping the dough with care preserves the delicate crumb and enables even, golden baking.”
Baking the Scones
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C).
- Bake the scones on the middle rack for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even color.
- Optional: Remove from oven and brush with a simple almond glaze for a glossy finish. To make glaze, mix powdered sugar with almond extract and a splash of milk until smooth.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 400°F | – | Ensures immediate baking |
| Bake scones | 400°F | 15-18 minutes | Rotate halfway for evenness |
| Optional glaze | – | After baking | Adds shine and extra flavor |
Cooling and Serving
- Transfer baked scones to a wire cooling rack immediately to prevent sogginess.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow crumb to set.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with butter, jam, or clotted cream.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for longer freshness.
Tips for Perfect Cherry And Almond Scones
To ensure our Cherry And Almond Scones come out impeccable every time, we follow these essential tips throughout the process. Mastering these details guarantees a tender crumb with a golden crisp exterior bursting with cherry and almond flavor.
1. Use Cold Ingredients and Handle Dough Gently
Always use cold cubed unsalted butter straight from the fridge. Cold butter creates flaky layers by melting in the oven, releasing steam. Likewise, keep the milk and eggs chilled. When mixing, incorporate the butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or food processor just until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Avoid overmixing once you add the wet ingredients to prevent tough scones.
2. Toast Almonds for Flavor and Crunch
Toasting sliced almonds before adding them to the dough enhances their nutty aroma and gives a satisfying crunch. Toast almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown. Allow them to cool completely before folding them into the dough.
3. Chop Dried Cherries Uniformly
Chop dried cherries into uniform small pieces about 1/4 inch to distribute them evenly throughout the dough. This uniformity ensures you get a burst of juicy sweetness in every bite and prevents oversized chunks that may affect dough structure.
4. Shape Dough to Ensure Even Baking
When shaping, flatten the dough into a 1-inch thick round disk and use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut wedges. Alternatively, roll and use a cookie cutter for round scones. Keeping consistent thickness and size ensures even baking and perfect scone shapes.
5. Brush Scones with Egg Wash or Milk
Brushing the tops with milk or an egg wash before baking gives the scones a beautiful golden crust. For extra sparkle and crunch, sprinkle sliced almonds and coarse sugar on top right after brushing.
6. Temperature and Baking Time
Bake the scones in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for 15–18 minutes until golden brown. Use the table below for reference:
| Oven Temperature | Baking Time | Doneness Indicator |
|---|---|---|
| 400°F (204°C) | 15–18 minutes | Golden brown tops and firm edges |
Avoid opening the oven door early to maintain the oven spring crucial for rise and flakiness.
7. Cool on a Wire Rack
Remove scones from the baking sheet immediately after baking and place them on a cooling rack. This prevents steam buildup underneath keeping the exterior crisp rather than soggy.
“Perfect Cherry And Almond Scones strike a balance of tender crumb and crisp crust, bursting with sweet cherries and nutty almonds. Each step from ingredient prep through baking impacts that harmony.“
By applying these tips consistently, we can enjoy flawlessly baked scones that capture the delightful essence of our favorite cherry and almond combination every time.
Storage and Shelf Life
To keep our Cherry and Almond Scones fresh and flavorful, proper storage is key. Follow these steps to maximize shelf life while maintaining their crisp exterior and tender crumb.
Storing Fresh Scones
- Allow scones to cool completely on a wire rack before storage.
- Store scones in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature.
- Consume within 2 days for optimal freshness and texture.
- If scones soften, re-crisp by warming them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
Refrigeration
- Place cooled scones in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate to extend freshness for up to 5 days.
- Before serving, warm them briefly in the oven or microwave to revive tenderness.
Freezing for Longer Storage
- Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Place wrapped scones inside a freezer-safe airtight container or zip-top freezer bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months without loss of flavor or texture.
- To enjoy, thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes then warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes.
| Storage Method | Storage Time | Container Type | Reheating Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Airtight container/bag | Oven 350°F for 5–7 minutes |
| Refrigeration | Up to 5 days | Airtight container/wrap | Oven or microwave briefly |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Wrapped + airtight bag | Thaw 30 min; oven 350°F 8–10 minutes |
Pro Tip: Always cool scones fully before storing to avoid condensation which makes them soggy.
By following these storage guidelines, our Cherry and Almond Scones will retain their characteristic crisp crust and tender center, ready to enjoy whenever we desire.
Conclusion
Cherry and Almond Scones offer a perfect blend of flavors and textures that make every bite memorable. With just a few simple ingredients and the right techniques, we can create a treat that’s both elegant and comforting. Whether for a cozy breakfast or a special afternoon tea, these scones bring warmth and delight to any occasion.
By following the tips and steps carefully, we ensure each batch turns out tender inside with a crisp, golden crust. Plus, the make-ahead and storage options give us flexibility to enjoy them whenever we want. Let’s keep these scones in our baking repertoire for a delicious way to brighten any day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cherry and Almond Scones special?
Cherry and Almond Scones combine juicy dried cherries with toasted almonds for a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors. They feature a tender, flaky interior with a crisp exterior, making them both comforting and elegant.
What ingredients are needed to make these scones?
Key ingredients include all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, toasted sliced almonds, chopped dried cherries, cold unsalted butter, whole milk, a large egg, and pure almond extract. Toppings like sliced almonds and coarse sugar enhance flavor and texture.
What equipment is essential for baking Cherry and Almond Scones?
You’ll need mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a pastry cutter or food processor, a baking sheet, a cooling rack, a whisk, a fork, a sharp knife or bench scraper, and a pastry brush.
Can I prepare the scone dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate shaped dough for up to 24 hours or freeze it for up to a month. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for fresh results.
How should I bake the scones for best results?
Bake at 400°F (204°C) for 15–18 minutes until golden brown. Brushing the tops with egg wash or milk before baking helps create a crisp, golden crust.
How do I store leftover scones?
Store cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for 5 days. For long-term storage, freeze individually wrapped scones for up to 3 months.
What is the best way to reheat scones?
Reheat scones in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness and warmth. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
Any tips for ensuring perfect scones?
Use cold butter and milk, mix dough gently to avoid toughness, toast almonds for flavor, chop cherries evenly, shape dough consistently, and brush tops with wash for a golden crust.