Craving a sweet treat that’s quick and easy to make? Look no further! Strawberry Chocolate Chip Scones are fluffy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. You can whip them up in no time with simple ingredients that you likely have at home. In this guide, I’ll show you every step to create these delicious scones, plus tips for a perfect bake. Let’s get started and satisfy that sweet tooth!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet strawberries paired with rich chocolate chips create a delightful balance in every bite.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these scones are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, tea time, or a special brunch, these scones fit perfectly into any menu.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm, with whipped cream, or alongside your favorite beverage for the ultimate treat.
Ingredients
To make strawberry chocolate chip scones, you need quality ingredients. Here is a list of what you’ll need:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, diced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
– 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for topping
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use milk or a dairy-free alternative. For sugar, brown sugar gives a richer taste. You can swap semisweet chocolate chips for dark or white chocolate, based on your preference.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
3. Add 1/2 cup of cold, diced butter to the dry mix. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until it looks like coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
Forming the Dough
5. Pour the wet mixture into the dry mix. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in 1 cup of diced strawberries and 3/4 cup of chocolate chips. Make sure they are evenly spread in the dough.
Shaping and Baking
7. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick.
8. Cut the circle into 8 wedges. Place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each scone.
9. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of coarse sugar on top of each scone.
10. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on the edges. They should look cooked through.
11. Remove the scones from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
Cold butter is key for light and fluffy scones. It helps create air pockets. When you mix, aim for a crumbly texture. Avoid melting the butter. This keeps the scones tender and flaky.
To avoid overmixing, gently fold the dough. Mix only until you see no dry flour. This keeps the scones soft. If you mix too much, they might become tough. Remember, lumps are okay!
Enhancing Flavor
For extra flavor, try adding lemon zest. It brings a bright note to the scones. You can also use fresh herbs like basil for a twist.
Always choose high-quality chocolate chips. They melt better and taste richer. Look for semisweet or dark chocolate for a deeper flavor. Good chocolate makes a big difference.
Presentation Tips
Serve scones warm for the best taste. Add a dollop of whipped cream on the side. This makes each bite even better.
Arrange scones on a rustic platter. Add fresh strawberries for color. This makes your dish look inviting. You can also pair them with tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
Pro Tips
- Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream are cold to achieve flakier scones.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the scones tender and light.
- Fresh Strawberries: Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor and juiciness.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with whipped cream or clotted cream for an indulgent treat.
Variations
Flavor Substitutions
You can switch up the flavors in your scones easily. Try using blueberries instead of strawberries. They give a nice burst of sweetness. Raspberries also work great if you like a bit of tartness. If you want a richer taste, swap semisweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate. Dark chocolate adds depth. White chocolate is another fun option. It gives a creamy texture and a sweet twist.
Dietary Modifications
If you need gluten-free scones, use a gluten-free flour blend. Many blends work well in baking. You can find them at most grocery stores. For a vegan version, replace the heavy cream with almond or coconut milk. Use a flax egg instead of a real egg. To make a flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes until it thickens. These swaps keep your scones tasty while meeting dietary needs.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Scones
To keep your scones fresh, place them in an airtight container. This will help them stay soft and moist. You can also wrap each scone in plastic wrap for extra protection. Store them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.
Freezing Instructions
For freezing unbaked scones, shape and cut the dough into wedges. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the scones to a freezer bag. You can keep unbaked scones in the freezer for up to three months. For baked scones, let them cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap. Baked scones also freeze well for three months.
To reheat frozen scones, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes. If they are unbaked, you can bake them straight from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Enjoy warm scones anytime!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I make the scone dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. Form the dough into a circle and cut it into wedges. Wrap the wedges in plastic wrap and place them in the fridge. You can bake them the next day. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Why are my scones tough?
Tough scones often come from overmixing the dough. When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix gently. Also, ensure your butter is cold. Cold butter creates steam, which makes the scones light and flaky.
Serving Suggestions
What drinks pair well with strawberry chocolate chip scones?
These scones taste great with tea or coffee. Try a light herbal tea for a fresh flavor. A rich coffee can also balance the sweetness of the chocolate. For a fun twist, serve with a glass of cold milk.
How to revise leftovers into new treats?
You can turn leftover scones into a delightful bread pudding. Tear them into pieces, mix with egg, cream, and spices, then bake until golden. You can also toast them and top with butter or jam for a quick snack.
Storage Queries
How long do scones last at room temperature?
Scones last about two days at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them.
Can I refrigerate scones?
Yes, you can refrigerate scones. They will stay fresh for up to a week. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container. When ready to eat, warm them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their texture.
This guide covered every step to make perfect strawberry chocolate chip scones. You learned about ingredients, preparation, and baking tips. We explored flavor variations and storage methods so you can enjoy them longer.
Remember, using cold butter and not overmixing is key. Have fun experimenting with different fruits or dietary needs. With these tips, your scones can impress at any gathering. Enjoy your baking adventur
