Earl Grey Scones with Blueberry and Lemon
Introduction
Scones are a delightful treat that pair perfectly with tea or coffee, making them a staple for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon snacks. This recipe for Earl Grey Scones with Blueberry and Lemon elevates traditional scones by infusing them with the delicate floral and citrus notes of Earl Grey tea. The addition of fresh blueberries and zesty lemon enhances the flavor profile, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. Whether you are an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is simple to follow and guarantees delicious results.
Ingredients
To make these Earl Grey Scones with Blueberry and Lemon, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp Earl Grey tea leaves (finely ground)
- 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 3/4 cup (100g) fresh blueberries
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Oven
Before you begin, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Having all your ingredients measured and prepared will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the ingredients are evenly distributed, which will help with the consistency of your scones.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the cold cubed butter into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving a flaky texture in your scones.
Step 4: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your scones.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can make the scones dense rather than light and fluffy.
Step 6: Fold in the Blueberries
Carefully fold in the fresh blueberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Try not to mash the berries, as their juices can make the dough too wet.
Step 7: Shape the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and shape it into a 1-inch thick circle. Using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, cut the dough into 8 equal wedges.
Step 8: Bake the Scones
Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for expansion. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Once baked, transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.
Optional: Lemon Glaze
For an extra touch of sweetness and tang, drizzle your scones with a simple lemon glaze. To make the glaze, whisk together:
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Drizzle over the cooled scones and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Scones
- Use cold butter: Keeping the butter cold ensures a flaky texture.
- Do not overmix the dough: Overmixing can result in tough scones.
- Work quickly: Handling the dough too much can warm the butter and affect the texture.
- Freeze before baking: For even flakier scones, place the shaped scones in the freezer for 10 minutes before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Earl Grey Scones with Blueberry and Lemon are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Serve them with clotted cream, butter, or lemon curd for a delightful tea-time experience. Pair with a hot cup of Earl Grey tea or coffee for the perfect accompaniment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use dried blueberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes! If using dried blueberries, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the dough to rehydrate them.
2. How do I store leftover scones?
Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes before serving.
3. Can I freeze these scones?
Yes! Freeze unbaked scones on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C), adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
4. Can I substitute the heavy cream with milk?
While milk can be used, heavy cream provides a richer texture. If substituting, use whole milk for the best results.
5. Can I make these scones gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend to make these scones gluten-free.
6. What can I use instead of Earl Grey tea?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can replace Earl Grey tea with Chai tea, Green tea, or Lavender tea for a unique twist.
Enjoy your homemade Earl Grey Scones with Blueberry and Lemon!