We absolutely adore the charm of homemade scones, and our Cherry Almond Scone recipe brings a delightful twist to this timeless treat. Picture warm, flaky layers bursting with sweet cherries and nutty almonds—it’s the perfect way to elevate your morning routine or pair with a cozy cup of tea.
Originating from British baking traditions, we’ve simplified the process so you can whip up a batch in no time. Whether you’re a scone novice or a pro, this recipe promises fresh-baked goodness that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
In our Cherry Almond Scone recipe, we gather simple yet flavorful ingredients that blend the tartness of cherries with the crunch of almonds to create warm, flaky scones perfect for any occasion. Let’s list them out in the order we use them, with precise measurements and prep notes for seamless baking.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: We start with this as the base for our Cherry Almond Scone structure, sifted for even texture.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tart cherries; we measure it precisely for the right level of indulgence.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Essential for lift; ensure it’s fresh to guarantee those signature flaky layers in our scones.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances overall flavor; we incorporate it early to distribute evenly.
Wet Ingredients and Add-Ins
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed: Cut into small pieces and kept chilled; this creates the buttery, tender crumb we love in Cherry Almond Scones.
- 1/2 cup dried cherries: We use these next for their chewy texture—chop roughly if you prefer smaller pieces to mix in smoothly.
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds: Lightly toasted for extra nutty depth; add them after the dry mix to maintain their crunch in our final scones.
- 2/3 cup milk or almond milk: Choose based on preference; we add it cold to keep the dough from becoming too sticky.
- 1 large egg: Beaten lightly before adding; this binds everything together for a golden, appealing finish.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract: Infuses a rich, nutty aroma; stir it in last among the liquids to amplify the almond flavor in our Cherry Almond Scones.
Equipment Needed
Now that we’ve outlined the key ingredients for our Cherry Almond Scones, let’s ensure we have the right tools to mix, shape, and bake them flawlessly. Proper equipment not only streamlines the process but also helps achieve that signature flaky texture and golden crust we love in these treats.
To prepare your scones efficiently, gather the following essentials. We’ll organize them into categories for clarity:
- Mixing and Measuring Tools:
- A large mixing bowl for combining dry ingredients like flour and sugar, ensuring even distribution without spills.
- Measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements of flour, sugar, and liquids, which are crucial for consistent results in our scone dough.
- Cutting and Shaping Tools:
- A pastry cutter or fork to cut cold butter into the flour mixture, creating the light, crumbly texture that makes our Cherry Almond Scones irresistible.
- A rolling pin if you prefer to roll out the dough for uniform shapes, though we recommend keeping it gentle to preserve those almond and cherry bits.
- Baking Tools:
- A baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ideal for even heat distribution and preventing the scones from sticking during their quick bake.
- An oven preheated to the exact temperature—typically around 400°F—to lock in the nutty almond flavor and sweet cherry bursts.
With these tools at hand, we’re set to transition smoothly into the preparation steps, making our baking experience both enjoyable and foolproof.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to create irresistible Cherry Almond Scones that boast a flaky texture and burst of nutty sweetness.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before mixing, we ensure all components are prepped for efficiency and optimal results. Start by measuring the dry ingredients precisely: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt into a large mixing bowl. For the wet ingredients, cut 6 tablespoons of cold unsalted butter into small cubes to keep it firm for flakiness, then roughly chop 1/2 cup of dried cherries and measure 1/2 cup of sliced almonds. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of milk or almond milk, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract until well combined. This preparation step guarantees even distribution of flavors and textures, setting the stage for a seamless baking process.
Mix the Dough
With ingredients ready, we begin combining them to form a tender dough. First, add the cubed butter to the bowl of dry ingredients and use a pastry cutter or fork to cut it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—this step is crucial for achieving those signature flaky layers. Next, stir in the chopped cherries and sliced almonds for a burst of tartness and crunch. Pour in the wet mixture all at once and gently stir with a spoon until just combined, being careful not to overmix; overworking the dough can make the scones tough instead of light and airy. Once mixed, the dough should be slightly sticky yet cohesive, promising a delightful contrast of soft interior and crisp exterior.
Shape the Scones
We shape the dough into beautiful scones that bake up golden and inviting. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it 2-3 times to bring it together. Use a rolling pin to roll it into a circle about 3/4-inch thick, then cut it into 8 wedges using a sharp knife or biscuit cutter for even portions. Place the shaped scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for expansion. For an extra touch, brush the tops with a little milk and sprinkle with additional sliced almonds—this enhances both appearance and flavor, resulting in scones with a perfectly crisp, golden crust.
Bake the Scones
Finally, we bake the scones to perfection, locking in their warm, aromatic essence. Preheat your oven to 400°F and position the baking sheet in the center rack. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. To monitor doneness accurately, refer to the table below for key baking indicators:
| Baking Time (minutes) | Internal Temperature (°F) | Visual Cue |
|---|---|---|
| 15-18 | 200-210 | Lightly golden edges |
| 18-20 | 210-220 | Deep golden brown and firm |
Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly on a wire rack—these scones will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma of toasted almonds and cherries, ready to enjoy.
Make-Ahead Instructions
We understand that life gets busy, so preparing our Cherry Almond Scones ahead of time ensures you can enjoy their warm, flaky texture and nutty almond flavor whenever the craving hits. Below, we outline simple, reliable methods to make this recipe even more convenient without compromising on taste or quality.
Preparing the Dough in Advance
To get a head start, we recommend mixing the dough for our Cherry Almond Scones up to 24 hours ahead. First, follow the dough preparation steps from the earlier section—combine the dry ingredients, cut in the cold butter until it forms coarse crumbs, and mix in the cherries, almonds, and wet ingredients without overworking the dough. Once shaped into wedges, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate the shaped scones for up to 24 hours to maintain their signature flaky layers and fresh cherry almond essence.
Freezing Unbaked Scones
For longer storage, freezing unbaked scones is our go-to method, allowing you to bake them straight from the freezer for effortless mornings. After shaping the dough into wedges as described, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the scones to a freezer-safe bag or container, labeling it with the date and baking instructions. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months, preserving the vibrant sweetness of the cherries and the crunch of the almonds.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 24 hours | Keep covered to prevent drying; bake directly from fridge, adding 2-3 minutes to bake time. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Avoid overcrowding in the bag; thaw briefly on the counter if desired, or bake from frozen. |
Baking from Make-Ahead Preparations
When you’re ready to bake, we make it straightforward to achieve golden-brown perfection. For refrigerated scones, preheat your oven to 400°F and bake as per the original instructions, adding 2-3 minutes to account for the chill. If baking from frozen, place the scones on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with milk, and sprinkle with sliced almonds for that extra nutty crunch. Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and aromatic—always monitor closely to ensure even baking and that irresistible fresh-baked scent fills your kitchen. These steps keep our Cherry Almond Scones tasting just-baked and delightful every time.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Cherry Almond Scone recipe with you, as it’s one of our go-to ways to bring warmth to any day. Baking these creates moments that linger, from the first mix to that fresh-baked scent.
It’s rewarding to see how simple ingredients turn into something truly special, boosting your baking confidence along the way.
Give it a try and make it your own—we’re sure it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Cherry Almond Scones?
To make Cherry Almond Scones, you’ll need dry ingredients like all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. For the wet components, gather cold unsalted butter, dried cherries, sliced almonds, milk or almond milk, a large egg, and almond extract. These simple items combine to create a flaky, flavorful treat, perfect for beginners and pros alike.
How do you make Cherry Almond Scones?
Start by mixing dry ingredients in a bowl, then cut in cold butter until crumbly. Add dried cherries and sliced almonds, followed by whisked wet ingredients like milk, egg, and almond extract—mix gently to avoid overworking the dough. Roll out, cut into wedges, brush with milk, and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until golden. It’s a straightforward process rooted in British traditions.
What equipment is required to bake Cherry Almond Scones?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl for combining ingredients, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a pastry cutter or fork to incorporate butter, a rolling pin to shape the dough, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Preheat your oven to 400°F to ensure even baking and that perfect flaky texture.
Can I prepare Cherry Almond Scones in advance?
Yes, you can mix the dough up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it, or shape the scones and chill them for baking later. For longer storage, freeze unbaked scones and bake directly from the freezer. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh scones even with a busy schedule, maintaining their warm, flaky goodness.
How should I store homemade Cherry Almond Scones?
Store baked scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to keep them fresh. For longer-term storage, freeze baked scones for up to 3 months—thaw and reheat in the oven. If unbaked, freeze shaped scones and bake from frozen, adjusting time as needed.
Are Cherry Almond Scones suitable for beginner bakers?
Absolutely, this recipe is simple and forgiving, with straightforward steps and common ingredients. Beginners can easily measure, mix, and bake without special skills, following the guide for precise results. It’s a great way to dive into British baking traditions and end up with delicious, crowd-pleasing scones on your first try.