Fresh Apricot Scones are a delightful addition to any breakfast or brunch table. With their soft, flaky texture and the natural sweetness of fresh apricots, these scones bring a touch of summer to your kitchen. Perfect for pairing with a cup of tea or coffee, they are easy to make and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into why these scones are a fantastic choice, along with the steps to create them!
Ingredients
- 2 Cups flour (240g)
- 4 teaspoons baking powder (16g)
- ½ teaspoon salt (3g)
- 1/3 Cup butter, cold (75g)
- 2/3 Cup milk (160ml)
- 1 Egg, lightly whisked (for brushing)
- 6 Fresh apricots, pitted and roughly chopped
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) and grease a baking tray.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add 2 cups of flour, 4 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk lightly to combine.
- Incorporate Butter: Cut in 1/3 cup of cold butter using the tips of your fingers until the mixture resembles bread crumbs.
- Add Milk: Pour in 2/3 cup of milk all at once and stir until a dough forms. Be careful not to over mix.
- Fold in Apricots: Gently fold in the 6 chopped fresh apricots until evenly distributed.
- Shape Dough: Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and lightly press it out with your hands.
- Cut Scones: Using a small 2-inch circle cutter, cut out 8 scones.
- Egg Wash: With a pastry brush, lightly brush the tops of the scones with the whisked egg.
- Bake: Place the scones on your prepared baking tray and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Enjoy these scones warm right out of the oven.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8 scones
Nutrition Info: Approx. 180 calories per scone (depending on final size and ingredients)
How to Serve Fresh Apricot Scones
Serve Fresh Apricot Scones warm from the oven, ideally with a dollop of clotted cream or a spread of your favorite butter. They also pair beautifully with fresh fruit preserves or a drizzle of honey. Enjoy them alongside a steaming cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat!
How to Store Fresh Apricot Scones
To keep Fresh Apricot Scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator where they can last for up to a week. You can also freeze them; wrap the cooled scones tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw and warm in the oven before serving.
Tips to Make Fresh Apricot Scones
- Ensure your butter is cold to create the flakiest texture.
- Be gentle when mixing to prevent tough scones; the dough should be a little rough.
- Experiment by adding a splash of vanilla or a pinch of cinnamon for added flavor.
- If apricots are out of season, substitute with dried apricots or other fruits like peaches or blueberries.
Variations
- Nutty Scones: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for extra crunch.
- Spiced Scones: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor profile.
- Zesty Scones: Grate the zest of an orange or lemon into the dough for a citrusy twist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen apricots?
Yes, you can use frozen apricots; just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding them to the dough.
How can I make scones without eggs?
You can substitute the egg wash with a milk or non-dairy milk wash to still achieve a nice golden color.
What if I don’t have baking powder?
You can make homemade baking powder by combining 1 part baking soda with 2 parts cream of tartar. Adjust the amount accordingly to match the recipe requirements.
Now that you’ve got this delicious Fresh Apricot Scones recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to whip up a batch and enjoy the delightful flavors and cozy aromas of your homemade scones!