Easy Lemon Raspberry Scones

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There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked scones wafting through the kitchen on a lazy Sunday morning. It takes me back to cozy weekends at my grandmother’s house, where the world seemed to slow down just enough to enjoy a warm hug in the form of a home-baked treat. Today, I’m sharing a recipe close to my heart that embodies that same sense of comfort and nostalgia: Easy Lemon Raspberry Scones. These delightful scones are the perfect blend of tart lemon and sweet raspberries, with a tender crumb that’s sure to bring a smile to your face.

Imagine sitting at your kitchen table, sipping a hot cup of tea while the sun streams through the windows. Your senses are greeted by the fresh, citrusy aroma of lemon zest mingling with the sweet scent of raspberries. These scones are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re a celebration of life’s simple pleasures. They’re a reminder that sometimes, the best moments are those spent in the company of loved ones, sharing something delicious and made with love.

Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table

These Easy Lemon Raspberry Scones are more than just a recipe; they’re an invitation to slow down and savor the everyday joys of life. Here are a few reasons why you should consider adding them to your baking repertoire:

• Nostalgic Comfort: With each bite, you’re transported back to those cherished memories of baking with family, where laughter and flour dusted the air in equal measure. The very act of baking these scones can become a beautiful ritual that you can share with your children or friends, creating new fond memories.
• Simple Pleasures: The combination of lemon and raspberry creates a refreshing and delightful flavor that’s hard to resist. The lemon zest infuses a bright, tangy aroma, while the raspberries add bursts of juicy sweetness, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors.
• Effortlessly Elegant: Despite their fancy appearance, these scones are incredibly easy to make, leaving you with more time to enjoy the little things. They rise beautifully and develop a light, golden crust, giving them a bakery-quality look with very little effort.
• Family-Friendly Fun: This recipe is a wonderful way to get the whole family involved in the kitchen, creating new memories together. Children can help with measuring ingredients or gently folding in the raspberries, learning the joy of cooking from scratch.
• Perfectly Shareable: Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply catching up over coffee, these scones are a delightful addition to any gathering. Their inviting aroma and appealing look make them an instant crowd-pleaser.

Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy

To whip up these scones without a hitch, you’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools:

• Mixing Bowls: A medium-sized bowl for the dry ingredients and another for the glaze. Having separate bowls ensures that you can focus on each component without mixing flavors prematurely.
• Whisk and Rubber Spatula: For easy mixing and folding of ingredients. A whisk helps to aerate the flour and mix the dry ingredients thoroughly, while a spatula is perfect for gently folding in delicate raspberries without crushing them.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl: To melt the butter quickly and easily. This step saves time and allows the butter to be incorporated smoothly into the batter.
• Sheet Pans and Parchment Paper: For baking the scones to golden perfection. Parchment paper prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
• Cookie Scoop or Large Spoon: Helps shape the scones evenly. Uniform size ensures they bake consistently and look professional.
• Wire Cooling Rack: To let your scones cool and allow the glaze to set beautifully. Cooling on a wire rack prevents sogginess by allowing air to circulate around the scones.

How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process and get these delicious scones onto your table!

Ingredients

For the scones:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 6 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• zest of 1 medium-size lemon
• ½ cup fresh raspberries

For the glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoon milk or half and half
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Set an oven rack on the middle level. This ensures even heat distribution for perfectly baked scones.
2. Place 1 cup of heavy cream in the freezer for 10-15 minutes. Chilling the cream helps create flaky layers in the scones.
3. Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl and set aside to cool. Cooling prevents the butter from cooking the eggs or curdling the cream.
4. Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, lemon zest, and salt in a medium-size bowl. This step ensures all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed before adding the wet ones.
5. Combine chilled cream with melted butter, stirring with a fork until small clumps form. This technique mimics the effect of cutting butter into flour, creating tender, flaky scones.
6. Add butter/cream mixture to dry ingredients and stir until a thick batter forms. The dough should be cohesive but not overworked to maintain a light texture.
7. Gently fold in raspberries. Be careful not to crush the raspberries, as their juices can make the dough too wet.
8. Scoop dough onto prepared pan, spacing scones 2-inches apart. Adequate spacing ensures they have room to expand without sticking together.
9. Refrigerate scones for at least 15 minutes. This step helps the scones hold their shape during baking and enhances their flaky texture.
10. Bake for 18-22 minutes until light golden brown. The scones should be slightly firm to the touch and lightly golden.
11. For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and lemon juice until smooth. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but thin enough to drizzle easily.
12. Spoon glaze over cooled scones and allow to set before serving. This final touch adds a sweet, tangy glaze that complements the scones perfectly.

Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: American • Preparation Time: 20 minutes • Cooking Time: 22 minutes • Total Time: 42 minutes • Calories: 250 • Servings: 12

Note: For a more intense lemon flavor, add a bit more zest to the glaze. This simple addition can elevate the citrus notes, making the scones even more vibrant.

Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients

Every ingredient in these scones is chosen not just for flavor, but for the little benefits they bring to the table. Fresh raspberries are bursting with antioxidants and vitamin C, providing a healthy dose of nutrients alongside their sweet and tangy flavor. They are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can be a great addition to a balanced diet.

Lemons are another powerhouse of vitamin C and add a refreshing zing that brightens up the scones beautifully. The citric acid in lemons not only enhances the flavor but also aids digestion and boosts the immune system.

The use of heavy cream and butter ensures a tender, flaky texture that is simply irresistible. While this might not be an everyday indulgence, it’s a lovely treat that brings comfort and joy, reminding us to balance health with a little indulgence now and then. The fats in these ingredients also help carry the flavors, making the scones rich and satisfying.

Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish

These lemon raspberry scones are delightful on their own but truly shine when paired with a few complementary treats. Consider serving them with:

• Freshly brewed tea or coffee: The warmth of a hot beverage enhances the flavors of the scones beautifully. A citrusy tea or a mild coffee can complement the scones’ flavors without overwhelming them.
• A dollop of clotted cream or whipped butter: For an extra touch of indulgence, add a little spread on your scone. The creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the scone’s crumbly nature.
• A side of fresh fruit salad: A medley of berries and citrus can complement the scone’s flavors and add a refreshing element to your spread. This can also add a nutritious component to your breakfast or brunch.

Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way

If you happen to have leftovers (a rare occurrence, I assure you!), these scones store beautifully. Place them in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them by wrapping individually and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in a low oven.

Re-glaze the scones with a fresh drizzle of lemon glaze to bring back that just-baked flavor. This little step ensures every bite is as delightful as the first. The glaze can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, then whisked again before use for a smooth consistency.

The joy of homemade cooking lies not just in the food itself but in the love and care you pour into each dish. As you bite into these Easy Lemon Raspberry Scones, may you feel the warmth of cherished memories and the comfort of creating new ones. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or dear friends, remember that the heart of cooking is sharing love.