Indulge in the delightful combination of cherries and almonds with these scrumptious scones. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat, these Cherry Almond Scones are easy to make and sure to impress. The rich flavor of almond extract pairs beautifully with the sweetness of dried cherries, creating a scone that's both tender and flavorful.
When preparing this recipe, you might need to visit the supermarket for a few specific ingredients. Dried cherries and almond extract are not always common pantry items, but they are essential for achieving the unique flavor of these scones. Additionally, make sure to pick up heavy cream, which adds richness and moisture to the dough.
Ingredients for Cherry Almond Scones
Flour: The base of the scone, providing structure and texture.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to the scones.
Baking powder: Helps the scones rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Butter: Adds richness and helps create a flaky texture.
Dried cherries: Provides a sweet and slightly tart flavor.
Toasted sliced almonds: Adds a nutty crunch to the scones.
Heavy cream: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.
Almond extract: Enhances the almond flavor in the scones.
Technique Tip for Baking Scones
When incorporating the cold butter into the dry ingredients, use a pastry cutter or your fingers to ensure the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This technique helps create a flaky texture in the scones. Be careful not to overwork the dough when kneading; gentle handling preserves the desired lightness.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, making the scones healthier.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar for each teaspoon of baking powder to achieve the same leavening effect.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a more complex flavor profile compared to regular table salt.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free option and adds a subtle coconut flavor.
dried cherries - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries have a similar tartness and texture, making them a good alternative.
toasted sliced almonds - Substitute with toasted pecans: Toasted pecans offer a different nutty flavor and a similar crunch.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream is a dairy-free alternative that provides a rich and creamy texture.
almond extract - Substitute with vanilla extract: Vanilla extract can provide a different but complementary flavor to the scones.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This One
How to Store / Freeze Your Scones
Allow the scones to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
Place the scones in an airtight container. If you need to stack them, separate each layer with a piece of parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Store the container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
For freezing, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents freezer burn.
Place the wrapped scones in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date to keep track of their storage time.
Freeze the scones for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
For a quick thaw, you can also microwave the scones on a low setting for 20-30 seconds, but be cautious as this can sometimes make them a bit chewy.
If you prefer a freshly baked taste, you can freeze the scone dough before baking. Shape the dough into wedges, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag.
When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the frozen scones for 20-25 minutes, adding a few extra minutes to the original baking time.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cherry almond scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Warm them for about 10 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crisp on the outside.
For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place a scone on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. This will keep the scone moist while reheating.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 320°F (160°C). Place the scones in the basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't overcook.
To reheat on the stovetop, use a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Place the scones in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through.
For a toaster oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones directly on the rack or on a small baking sheet. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until they are warm and slightly crispy.
Best Tools for Baking
Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) to bake the scones until golden brown.
Baking sheet: Line with parchment paper to prevent the scones from sticking.
Parchment paper: Used to line the baking sheet for easy cleanup and non-stick baking.
Large mixing bowl: Whisk together the dry ingredients like flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Whisk: Used to combine the dry ingredients evenly.
Pastry cutter: Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Separate bowl: Combine the heavy cream and almond extract before adding to the dry ingredients.
Spatula: Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined.
Floured surface: Turn the dough out onto this surface to knead gently.
Knife: Cut the dough into 8 wedges.
Cooling rack: Let the scones cool slightly before serving.
How to Save Time on Making Scones
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the baking process.
Use a food processor: Quickly cut in the butter by pulsing it with the dry ingredients in a food processor.
Chill the dough: Prepare the dough in advance and chill it in the fridge. This makes it easier to handle and cuts down on prep time.
Pre-toast almonds: Toast the almonds in bulk and store them for future use.
Batch bake: Double the recipe and freeze half of the scones for a quick treat later.
Cherry Almond Scones Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter cut into small pieces
- 1 cup dried cherries coarsely chopped
- ½ cup sliced almonds toasted
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the chopped dried cherries and toasted almonds.
- In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream and almond extract. Pour into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into 8 wedges and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
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