Cream cheese scones bring a delightful twist to the classic scone we all love. With their tender crumb and rich flavor, these scones are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat. The addition of cream cheese makes them extra moist and gives a subtle tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.
We love how simple ingredients come together to create something so comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and quick to whip up. Let’s dive into making these delicious cream cheese scones that will soon become a staple in our kitchen.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect cream cheese scones, we gather a blend of simple yet quality ingredients. These components work together to create a tender crumb and a rich, moist texture that defines our scones. Below we break down the ingredients into dry and wet categories for clarity and ease.
Dry Ingredients
We carefully measure each dry ingredient to ensure the best rise and crumb:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted for lightness
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar to add a subtle sweetness
- 1 tablespoon baking powder to provide lift
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda for gentle leavening balance
- 1/2 teaspoon salt to enhance flavor
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Structure & texture |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup | Sweetness |
| Baking powder | 1 tablespoon | Leavening agent |
| Baking soda | 1/2 teaspoon | Leavening balance |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Flavor enhancer |
Wet Ingredients
The wet ingredients bring moisture and richness, making these cream cheese scones exceptionally tender:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup heavy cream for richness and moisture
- 1 large egg, beaten, to bind and enrich
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to elevate flavor profiles
| Ingredient | Measurement | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 4 ounces | Moisture, richness, tang |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup | Adds moisture and fat |
| Large egg | 1, beaten | Binds ingredients |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Enhances flavor |
These precisely measured ingredients set the stage for creating our signature cream cheese scones that boast a delicate texture and a rich flavor with every bite.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Cream Cheese Scones with a tender crumb and rich flavor, we need specific equipment to ensure precision and ease throughout the baking process. Here’s what we’ll use:
- Mixing Bowls
Use a large bowl for combining dry ingredients and a separate medium bowl for wet ingredients. Glass or stainless steel bowls work best for easy mixing and clean-up.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements of flour, sugar, baking powder, and liquids are crucial. Use dry measuring cups for flour and sugar, and liquid measuring cups for cream and vanilla extract.
- Pastry Cutter or Fork
We’ll use a sturdy pastry cutter to cut the cold cream cheese and butter into the flour mixture. If unavailable, two forks or your fingertips will work, but avoid overworking the dough.
- Whisk
Essential for blending the egg and heavy cream smoothly, as well as mixing the dry ingredients evenly.
- Baking Sheet
A rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper ensures even heat distribution and easy clean-up.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat
Prevents sticking and facilitates even baking without burning the scone bottoms.
- Cooling Rack
For letting the scones cool perfectly after baking, preventing sogginess.
- Rolling Pin (optional)
Helps achieve an even dough thickness if you prefer rolling out the dough rather than patting it by hand.
- Sharp Knife or Dough Cutter
To cut the dough into uniform triangles or rounds for consistent baking.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine ingredients |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Measure dry and wet ingredients precisely |
| Pastry Cutter/Fork | Incorporate cream cheese into dry mixture |
| Whisk | Blend eggs and cream, mix dry ingredients |
| Baking Sheet | Bake scones evenly |
| Parchment Paper/Silicone Mat | Prevent sticking and burning |
| Cooling Rack | Cool scones evenly |
| Rolling Pin (optional) | Evenly flatten dough |
| Sharp Knife/Dough Cutter | Cut dough into shapes |
Pro Tip: Keep your cream cheese and butter cold right until mixing to ensure that the scones remain light and flaky.
With this equipment ready, we can confidently begin crafting our Cream Cheese Scone dough for a delicious blend of moist texture and rich flavor.
Instructions
Follow these clear steps to make our Cream Cheese Scones with perfect texture and flavor. Each stage builds on the last to ensure tender, flaky scones with a moist crumb.
Prep Work
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to allow full heat penetration for even baking.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and promote browning.
- Chill the cream cheese and butter until just before mixing to maintain a light and flaky texture.
- Measure and prepare all ingredients precisely to guarantee consistent results.
- Have your mixing tools, pastry cutter (or fork), and cooling rack ready for smooth workflow.
Mixing the Dough
- In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Cut the cold butter (6 tablespoons) into small cubes and add it to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or fork to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the wet ingredients:
- 4 ounces softened cream cheese
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 1 large beaten egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the dough tender and flaky. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Structure and base |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup | Sweetness |
| Baking powder | 1 tbsp | Leavening |
| Baking soda | 1/2 tsp | Leavening |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | Flavor enhancement |
| Butter | 6 tbsp, cold, cubed | Flakiness and richness |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz, softened | Moisture and tang |
| Heavy cream | 2/3 cup | Moisture and tenderness |
| Egg | 1 large, beaten | Binds and enriches |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Aroma and flavor enhancement |
Shaping the Scones
- Lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking.
- Turn the dough out onto the floured surface and gently pat or roll it into a 7-inch circle about 3/4 inch thick. Do not overwork the dough to retain the flaky texture.
- Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut the dough into 8 equal wedges or use a biscuit cutter for round scones.
- Transfer the wedges or rounds onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart for proper expansion.
- Optionally brush the tops with a little heavy cream or an egg wash for a golden, shiny finish.
Baking the Scones
- Bake in the preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 18-22 minutes until the scones are risen, golden brown on top, and firm to the touch.
- Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even baking.
- Remove scones from the oven and immediately transfer them to a cooling rack to prevent sogginess on the bottom.
- Allow scones to cool slightly before serving to let flavors develop and crumb set.
Serving Suggestions
Our Cream Cheese Scones shine best when paired thoughtfully to enhance their tender crumb and rich, tangy flavor. Here are some excellent serving ideas to enjoy these scones at their finest.
Classic Pairings
- Butter and Jam: Spread a pat of high-quality butter on a warm scone, then add your favorite fruit jam or preserves like strawberry, raspberry, or apricot.
- Clotted Cream and Honey: For a luxurious touch, serve with a dollop of clotted cream and a drizzle of honey — a delightful balance of creamy and sweet.
Savory Options
- Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream Cheese: Layer smoked salmon over a split scone, then top with dill-infused cream cheese for an upscale brunch treat.
- Herbed Butter: Mix softened butter with fresh herbs such as chives, rosemary, or thyme and spread on your scones for a fragrant, savory flavor.
Beverage Pairings
| Beverage | Flavor Complement |
|---|---|
| Hot Coffee | Cuts through richness, enhancing cream cheese taste |
| Black Tea | Adds aromatic depth without overpowering the scone |
| Fresh Orange Juice | Provides bright acidity, balancing creaminess |
Serving Temperature and Presentation
- Serve Slightly Warm: Heat scones for 5 to 7 minutes at 300°F before serving to release their soft texture and amplify flavor.
- Presentation Tip: Arrange scones on a tiered plate or wooden board, garnish with fresh berries or edible flowers for visual appeal.
“A well-paired serving elevates our cream cheese scones from delightful to unforgettable.”
By experimenting with these serving options, we can tailor our Cream Cheese Scone Recipe to suit varied occasions whether it’s a cozy breakfast or elegant afternoon tea.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is essential to keep our cream cheese scones fresh, moist, and flavorful for as long as possible. Follow these steps to maintain their delightful texture and taste.
Short-Term Storage (1-2 Days)
- Allow the scones to cool completely on a cooling rack to avoid condensation.
- Store the scones in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Place a paper towel inside the container to absorb any excess moisture, preserving the scones’ crisp edges.
- Avoid stacking scones directly on top of each other to maintain their shape.
Medium-Term Storage (Up to 1 Week)
- Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped scones in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Store them in the refrigerator, which slows microbial growth and maintains freshness.
Long-Term Storage (Up to 3 Months)
- Individually wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place wrapped scones in a resealable freezer-safe bag.
- Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the bag with the date to keep track of storage time.
Reheating Instructions
To enjoy freshly baked taste and texture, reheat stored scones using one of these methods:
| Method | Time | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven | 10-12 minutes | 325°F (163°C) | Place scones on a baking sheet. |
| Microwave | 15-20 seconds | Medium power | Use paper towel to retain moisture. |
| Toaster Oven | 5-7 minutes | 300°F (149°C) | Toast lightly for a warm, crisp exterior. |
Pro Tip: For best results, reheat from a thawed state when frozen. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or for an hour at room temperature.
Additional Tips
- Avoid storing scones in the refrigerator at room temperature overnight, as this can cause them to dry out.
- Freeze scones as soon as they have fully cooled to lock in freshness.
- When ready to serve from frozen, allow scones to thaw slightly before reheating to ensure even warming.
By following these Storage Tips we ensure our cream cheese scones remain a delicious treat whenever we want to enjoy them.
Conclusion
Cream cheese scones bring a delicious twist to any baking routine, combining ease with exceptional flavor and texture. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, they’re perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers looking to impress.
By following the tips on preparation, baking, serving, and storage, we can enjoy these scones fresh and flavorful anytime. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a special gathering, cream cheese scones always add a touch of homemade comfort and elegance to the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes cream cheese scones different from traditional scones?
Cream cheese scones have a tender crumb and subtle tang from the cream cheese, making them moister and richer than traditional scones.
Are cream cheese scones difficult to make?
No, the recipe is simple and easy to follow, suitable for both novice and experienced bakers.
What ingredients are needed for cream cheese scones?
You’ll need dry ingredients like all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and wet ingredients including softened cream cheese, heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract.
What equipment do I need to bake cream cheese scones?
Basic tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a pastry cutter or fork, whisk, baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat, cooling rack, and optionally a rolling pin and sharp knife.
How do I keep the scones tender and flaky?
Keep the cream cheese and butter cold until mixing and avoid overmixing the dough to maintain a light and flaky texture.
How should I shape and cut the dough?
Shape the dough into a circle or rectangle, then cut into wedges or rounds, spacing them apart on the baking sheet.
What is the ideal baking temperature and time for cream cheese scones?
Bake at the moderate oven temperature specified in the recipe (usually around 375°F) for the recommended time to ensure the scones rise well and bake evenly.
How can I serve cream cheese scones?
Serve slightly warm with butter and jam, clotted cream and honey, or savory toppings like smoked salmon and herbed butter. Pair well with coffee, tea, or fresh juice.
How should I store cream cheese scones?
Cool completely then store in airtight containers. Short-term at room temperature, longer storage in the fridge or freezer is recommended.
What is the best way to reheat cream cheese scones?
Reheat gently in a warm oven or microwave to restore their fresh-baked texture and flavor without drying them out.