As the sun peeked through my kitchen window one crisp morning, I was inspired by the delicate aroma of honey wafting through the air. It reminded me of lazy Sunday mornings spent in cozy cafés, enjoying warm scones with a steaming cup of tea. With that nostalgic feeling in mind, I decided to create a recipe that captures the essence of those moments: Honey Almond Scones. They are a delightful balance of sweetness and nuttiness, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Additional honey and sliced almonds for topping
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring a non-stick surface for your scones. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This dry mix is the foundation of your scone, and it’s important to get it just right.
Next, take the cubed cold butter and add it to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving that tender, flaky texture that makes scones so irresistible.
Now, fold in the sliced almonds, which will add a lovely crunch and a nutty flavor to your scones. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, honey, and vanilla extract until well combined. Pour this wet mixture into your dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough; you want it to be light and airy.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick, then cut it into 8 equal wedges. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one to allow for expansion in the oven.
To give your scones a beautiful golden color, whisk the egg and brush it over the tops of each scone. Drizzle a little extra honey on top and sprinkle with additional sliced almonds for that extra touch of elegance.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As they bake, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible scent, transporting you to a quaint café in the heart of a bustling city.
Once baked, allow the scones to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy them warm, perhaps with a bit of clotted cream or a simple spread of butter. These Honey Almond Scones are sure to become a beloved recipe in your collection, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on a quiet morning alone with your thoughts.
So grab a cup of tea, settle into your favorite chair, and indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of these delightful scones. Happy baking!