If you love warm, sweet treats, you’re in for a real treat! Chocolate chip scone bites are simple to make and perfect for sharing. They’re soft, buttery, and packed with chocolate goodness. I’ll guide you through easy steps to whip these up in no time. So grab your apron, and let’s bake some scrumptious scone bites that will impress your friends and family!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is incredibly simple and can be whipped up in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for a last-minute treat.
- Perfectly Bite-Sized: These scone bites are the ideal size for snacking, making them great for parties or afternoon tea.
- Rich Chocolate Flavor: With chocolate chips mixed throughout, each bite is a delightful burst of rich chocolate goodness.
- Versatile Variations: This basic scone recipe can be easily adapted with different mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit, allowing for endless creativity.
Ingredients
Complete List of 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 chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional toppings: Extra chocolate chips
Gathering your ingredients is a key step. Use quality flour for the best texture. The sugar adds sweetness, while baking powder makes them rise. The salt balances the flavors perfectly.
I prefer cold unsalted butter because it gives a flaky texture. Chocolate chips are a must; they melt beautifully. Heavy cream makes the scones rich and moist. Eggs bind everything together, while vanilla adds a warm flavor.
If you love chocolate, sprinkle some extra chips on top. This simple list lets you create delightful scone bites that everyone will love.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This mix helps our scones rise well.
– Add 1/2 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry mix. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until it looks like coarse crumbs.
Preparing the Dough
– Next, stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips. You can use semi-sweet or dark chocolate, whichever you prefer.
– In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Make sure this mix is smooth.
Final Steps
– Pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until combined. It’s okay if the dough is a bit crumbly; just don’t overmix.
– Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Pat it into a rectangle that is about 1 inch thick.
– Cut the rectangle into small squares or triangles, each about 1.5 inches.
– Place the scone bites on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. If you want, sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top.
– Bake in the oven for 15-18 minutes. They should look lightly golden when done. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
– Once baked, let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes. Then move them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Making Scone Bites
To get the perfect texture in your scone bites, keep these tips in mind:
– Use cold butter: Cold butter helps create a flaky texture. It should be cubed and added straight from the fridge.
– Mix gently: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir just until mixed. This helps keep the scone bites light.
Do not overmix your dough. Overmixing can lead to tough scones. A little crumbly texture is fine. Trust me; it adds character!
Customization Suggestions
Feel free to switch up the chocolate chips. Here are some options:
– Semi-sweet chips: These are classic and loved by many.
– Dark chocolate chips: For a richer flavor, try dark chocolate.
– Milk chocolate chips: If you like it sweeter, use milk chocolate.
You can also add different flavors or mix-ins. Consider these ideas:
– Citrus zest: Add lemon or orange zest for a fresh touch.
– Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch.
– Dried fruits: Try raisins or cranberries for a fruity twist.
Mix and match to find your favorite flavor!
Pro Tips
- Chill Your Butter: Ensure your butter is very cold when cubed. This helps create a flaky texture in your scones.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough scones instead of light and fluffy ones.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or citrus zest to the dough for additional flavor variations.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover scone bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer freshness.
Variations
Flavor Variants
You can change the flavor of your scone bites easily. Simply add fruits or nuts. For instance, blueberries or cranberries work great. They add a fresh taste and color. You can mix these fruits into the dough gently. This makes each bite fruity and fun.
Nuts are another option. Walnuts or pecans can add crunch and flavor. Chop them up and fold them in. The scones will have a nutty twist that many love. You can even mix both fruits and nuts for added texture. Each bite will be a delightful surprise.
Dietary Alternatives
If you need gluten-free scone bites, that’s simple too. You can use gluten-free flour blends. These blends often work well in baking. Make sure to check the package for measurements. This way, you will get the best results.
For a vegan option, replace the butter with coconut oil. You can also use almond milk instead of heavy cream. A flax egg can replace the chicken egg. Just mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. This makes scone bites that everyone can enjoy!
Storage Info
How to Store Scone Bites
Store your scone bites in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. You can use a glass jar or a plastic container. Make sure the container seals well. Keep the scone bites at room temperature. They last for about 2 to 3 days this way. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them. They can stay fresh for up to a week in the fridge.
Reheating Instructions
To enjoy scone bites warm, use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the scone bites on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5 to 10 minutes. This warms them evenly and keeps them crisp. You can also use a microwave for quick reheating. Heat them in 10-second bursts until warm. Keep an eye on them so they don’t get tough. Enjoy your warm scone bites with a cup of tea or coffee!
FAQs
Common Questions About Chocolate Chip Scone Bites
Can I make scone bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can make scone bites ahead. Prepare the dough and shape it. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you are ready, bake them fresh!
What is the best way to freeze scone bites?
To freeze scone bites, let them cool fully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to three months.
Ingredient Substitutions
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use whole milk or half-and-half as a lighter option. If you need a dairy-free choice, try coconut cream or almond milk mixed with a bit of oil.
Can I replace butter with a different fat?
Yes, you can use margarine or coconut oil in place of butter. Just ensure they are cold, similar to how you would use butter. This keeps the texture light and flaky.
You learned how to make delicious chocolate chip scone bites. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. Remember, the right mixing and baking time make all the difference. You can customize these bites with fruits or nuts for extra flavor. Store your scone bites correctly to enjoy them longer. With these easy methods, you can whip up a tasty treat anytime. Enjoy baking and experimenting with your own variation
