Sweeten Your Holidays: Irresistible Dried Fruit Scones for Festive Mornings

As the chill of winter sets in and the holiday spirit envelops us, there’s nothing quite like the joy of baking. Scones, with their buttery exterior and tender crumb, are the perfect pastry to accompany a cup of tea or coffee on a serene morning. Adding dried fruit not only enhances their flavor but also infuses them with vibrant colors and a natural sweetness that’s delightfully festive. Follow this recipe to create irresistible dried fruit scones that will sure to become your go-to choice for festive mornings!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to ensure a melt-in-your-mouth experience:

• 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 cubed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (e.g. cranberries, apricots, raisins, and cherries)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• Extra cream or milk, for brushing on top
• Coarse sugar, for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

The first step in creating these moist and delicious scones is to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a quick bake and helps form a delightful crust on your scones!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir gently until well mixed. The dry ingredients will provide the structure for your scones, so give them a moment of attention!

Step 3: Incorporate the Butter

Next, add the 1/2 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter into the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to overwork the dough; tiny bits of butter should remain for that flaky texture we all love!

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. The liquid ingredients will help bind the dry components and bring moisture to the scones, paving the way for a tender crumb.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid excessive mixing to keep your scones tender! Now, fold in 1 cup of mixed dried fruits and 1/4 cup of chopped nuts (if using) until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Your dough will be slightly sticky—that’s a good thing! Turn it out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Press it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Using a sharp knife or pastry cutter, cut the circle into 8 wedges.

Step 7: Bake the Scones

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the scone wedges on it, leaving some space between them. Brush the tops with a little extra cream or milk, and sprinkle a pinch of coarse sugar on top if you’re feeling fancy! Now, it’s time to pop them into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm with clotted cream, butter, or your favorite jam for a delightful holiday treat that will uplift your mornings.

Tips for Success

• Choosing Dried Fruits: Feel free to customize the dried fruits based on your preferences. Chopped dates, figs, and even sour cherries can provide unique flavors to your scones.
• Using Frozen Ingredients: If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen dried fruits; just make sure to chop them a bit and don’t forget to dry them off with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture!
• Serving Ideas: These scones can be enjoyed on their own or with festive beverages. Pair them with spiced apple cider for a truly celebratory action.

Related Products