We’ve always been fans of the cozy charm in homemade scones, and our Hungry Gnome Scone Recipe adds a playful twist to this timeless treat. Inspired by British baking traditions these fluffy delights bring a touch of fantasy to your table making them ideal for family brunches or afternoon teas.
We love how simple tweaks like hearty add-ins create a recipe that’s both nostalgic and innovative. Whether you’re a baking novice or pro our version promises golden perfection that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
To craft our Hungry Gnome Scone Recipe, we gather fresh, high-quality ingredients that blend traditional British flavors with a hearty, whimsical twist. Below, we list them in the order they’ll be used, including any prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups, sifted): This forms the base of our dough, providing structure and a light, fluffy texture.
- Baking powder (1 tablespoon): Added next to ensure our scones rise perfectly, creating that signature tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): We incorporate this for a subtle sweetness that balances the hearty elements.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): A pinch to enhance flavors and bring out the best in the other ingredients.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, chilled and cubed): Cut into the dry mix to add rich, flaky layers—keep it cold for the best results.
- Old-fashioned oats (1/2 cup): Stirred in for a nutritious, earthy crunch that nods to the “Hungry Gnome” theme.
- Chopped walnuts (1/2 cup): These hearty nuts provide a satisfying texture and a whimsical forest-inspired element.
- Dried cranberries (1/4 cup): Folded in for a tart, colorful burst that adds visual appeal and flavor depth.
- Egg (1 large, beaten): Used to bind and enrich the dough, promoting a golden finish.
- Buttermilk (3/4 cup, cold): Poured in last to create a moist, tender scone while keeping the dough easy to handle.
For optimal results, we recommend using organic ingredients where possible, as this enhances the fresh, homemade taste of our Hungry Gnome Scone Recipe. If substituting, note that alterations like using whole wheat flour may affect texture—adjust as needed for your baking adventure.
Tools and Equipment
Having gathered our fresh ingredients for the Hungry Gnome Scone Recipe, we now turn to the essential tools and equipment that make baking these fluffy scones straightforward and enjoyable. As experienced bakers, we know that the right tools not only streamline the process but also ensure consistent results, from mixing to baking perfection.
To prepare our Hungry Gnome Scones, here’s a curated list of the key tools and equipment, organized by the order of use in the recipe:
- Mixing Bowl (Large): We start with a sturdy, large mixing bowl to combine dry ingredients like flour and oats. Opt for a glass or stainless steel one for easy scraping and minimal sticking.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons (Set): Accuracy is crucial in our Hungry Gnome Scone Recipe, so use a precise set of measuring cups and spoons for ingredients such as sugar and buttermilk to achieve the ideal texture.
- Pastry Cutter or Fork: This tool helps us cut cold butter into the flour mixture quickly, creating those signature flaky layers in our scones—avoid overworking the dough for the best results.
- Baking Sheet (Rimmed): A standard rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper ensures even baking and easy cleanup, preventing our scones from spreading too much.
- Rolling Pin: We use this to gently roll out the dough to about 1-inch thickness, maintaining the scones’ light and airy rise.
- Biscuit Cutter or Knife: For shaping, a 2- to 3-inch biscuit cutter works best for uniform scones, or a sharp knife if you’re aiming for wedges—this step influences the final presentation.
- Oven (Conventional or Convection): Preheat to 425°F for optimal baking; a reliable oven thermometer can help verify temperature accuracy to avoid underbaked or burnt results.
- Cooling Rack: After baking, transfer the scones to a wire cooling rack to let them cool evenly, preserving their crisp exterior and tender interior.
By using these tools, we guarantee that our Hungry Gnome Scone Recipe comes together efficiently, allowing even novice bakers to create professional-quality treats. Always check that your equipment is clean and in good condition for the smoothest baking experience.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through crafting the Hungry Gnome Scone Recipe with precision and ease. Follow these steps to create light, fluffy scones bursting with rich flavors from oats, walnuts, and cranberries.
Prep the Ingredients
Before we begin mixing, proper preparation ensures our Hungry Gnome Scones turn out perfectly textured and flavorful. Start by measuring out the dry ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt into a large mixing bowl. For the add-ins, chop 1/2 cup of walnuts into coarse pieces and rinse 1/2 cup of dried cranberries to remove any excess sugar coating.
Next, prepare the wet ingredients with care: cut 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter into small cubes and chill them in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to keep the dough flaky. In a separate bowl, whisk 1 large egg with 1/2 cup of buttermilk until smooth and slightly frothy—we aim for a creamy consistency that binds everything together. Finally, measure out 1/2 cup of old-fashioned oats, which add a hearty, nutty crunch to our scones. This step sets the stage for a dough that’s easy to handle and full of delightful textures.
Mix the Dough
With ingredients prepped, we mix the dough to create that signature light and airy base for our Hungry Gnome Scones. In the large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt—using a pastry cutter or fork to blend them evenly until the mixture resembles fine sand.
Add the cubed butter to the dry mix and cut it in with quick, firm motions until the butter forms pea-sized crumbles, ensuring a tender, flaky result. Stir in the oats, chopped walnuts, and dried cranberries for a burst of crisp nuttiness and tangy sweetness. In a slow, steady pour, add the egg-buttermilk mixture and gently fold everything together with a spoon or your hands—avoid overworking the dough to preserve its soft, pillowy lift. Once it forms a shaggy ball, our dough is ready, promising a golden, aromatic treat straight from the oven.
Shape and Bake
Now we shape and bake our Hungry Gnome Scones to achieve that irresistible, golden-brown exterior with a moist, flavorful interior. Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it, then pat it into a 1-inch-thick circle using a rolling pin or your hands for even shaping.
Use a biscuit cutter or sharp knife to cut the dough into 8-10 wedges, placing them on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper—space them 2 inches apart to allow for even rising. Preheat your oven to 425°F and bake the scones for 12-15 minutes, watching as they puff up and turn a deep golden hue, filling your kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of baked oats and nuts. This step locks in the scones’ crisp edges and soft centers for a truly satisfying bite.
Cool and Serve
After baking, we cool and serve our Hungry Gnome Scones to enhance their flavors and textures for the best enjoyment. Transfer the hot scones to a cooling rack and let them rest for 5-10 minutes, allowing the steam to escape and preventing sogginess while the rich walnut and cranberry notes intensify.
Once cooled slightly, serve these fluffy delights warm—perhaps split open and topped with a pat of butter or a dollop of jam for added indulgence. Our Hungry Gnome Scones pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them ideal for brunches or snacks.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Hungry Gnome Scone Recipe even more convenient for busy mornings or impromptu brunches, we recommend preparing components in advance. This approach keeps the scones’ fluffy texture and rich flavor intact while saving time. Let’s break down the steps for make-ahead preparation, ensuring you can enjoy these delightful treats with minimal effort on the day of serving.
Preparing the Dough Ahead
We can mix the dough up to 24 hours in advance to maintain its light, airy quality. Start by following the preparation steps from the previous section, but stop after shaping the scones into wedges. Key Tip: Wrap the shaped dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, then refrigerate it immediately. This chilling process enhances the butter’s flakiness, resulting in golden, irresistible scones when baked later.
Freezing Unbaked Scones
For longer storage, freezing unbaked scones is a game-changer, allowing us to have fresh-baked goods ready in minutes. After shaping the dough, arrange the wedges on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them until solid—typically 1 to 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the scones to a freezer-safe bag or container, labeling it with the date. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months, preserving their hearty oat and walnut essence.
| Storage Method | Duration | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 24 hours | Maintains dough freshness and ease of baking |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Prevents sogginess and locks in flavors for later use |
Baking from Make-Ahead Prep
When you’re ready to bake, we simply adjust the process for optimal results. If refrigerated, let the dough sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before baking at 425°F for 15 to 20 minutes, until golden brown and aromatic with hints of cranberries and walnuts. For frozen scones, bake directly from the freezer, adding 3 to 5 minutes to the original bake time. Important Note: Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure even heat distribution and that signature crisp exterior we love in our Hungry Gnome Scones.
Storing Baked Scones
If we’ve baked a batch ahead, store the cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate them for up to 5 days to extend shelf life. For the best experience, reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes to restore their warm, butter-soft centers and pair perfectly with coffee or tea. Always check for freshness before serving to keep our Hungry Gnome Scone Recipe at its peak.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing our Hungry Gnome Scone Recipe and how it brings simple joy to baking. It’s a versatile treat that fits right into your routine, offering that perfect balance of fluffiness and flavor we’ve perfected over time.
As you whip up your batch, remember we’re here cheering you on for those delicious results. Let’s make every bite a celebration of homemade goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hungry Gnome Scone Recipe?
The Hungry Gnome Scone Recipe is a fun twist on traditional British baking, featuring fluffy scones with hearty additions like oats, walnuts, and cranberries. It’s perfect for family brunches or afternoon teas, appealing to beginners and pros alike. This easy recipe promises delicious, light results with simple modifications for personalization.
What ingredients are needed for Hungry Gnome Scones?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, salt, unsalted butter, old-fashioned oats, chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, an egg, and buttermilk. These fresh ingredients create a rich, fluffy texture. Opt for organic options if available, and note that substitutions like whole wheat flour might alter the texture slightly.
What tools are required to bake Hungry Gnome Scones?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a pastry cutter or fork, a rimmed baking sheet, a rolling pin, a biscuit cutter or knife, an oven, and a cooling rack. These items help streamline the process for consistent, professional results, making baking enjoyable for all skill levels.
How do I make Hungry Gnome Scones?
Start by preparing ingredients: measure dry items and chill butter for flakiness. Mix to form a light dough, shape into wedges, and bake at 425°F until golden brown. Cool briefly before serving warm with butter or jam. This simple process yields perfect scones in under an hour, ideal for brunches or snacks.
Can I make substitutions in the Hungry Gnome Scone Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ingredients like using whole wheat flour for all-purpose, which may make scones denser. Try different nuts or dried fruits for variety, but keep measurements similar to maintain texture. Always test adjustments, as they can affect the final outcome, ensuring your baking adventure stays delicious.
How can I make Hungry Gnome Scones ahead of time?
Prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance: shape into wedges and refrigerate for freshness. For longer storage, freeze unbaked scones for up to 3 months. When baking, add a few extra minutes for refrigerated dough or follow adjusted times for frozen ones. This makes them convenient for busy mornings or impromptu gatherings.
How should I store baked Hungry Gnome 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 preservation, freeze for up to 3 months and reheat in the oven for the best texture. Always reheat gently to maintain their fluffy quality and pair with tea for enjoyment.