Cherry Chip Scones are a delightful treat that brings together the tartness of dried cherries and the sweet, creamy goodness of chocolate chips in a buttery, flaky scone. These scones are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. The combination of juicy cherries and melting chocolate chips creates a wonderful contrast of flavors and textures, while the scone itself is tender and slightly crumbly, with a golden-brown crust. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, Cherry Chip Scones are a delicious way to start your day or to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup dried cherries
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, plus extra for brushing
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. It’s okay if some larger pieces of butter remain.
- Add the cherries and chocolate chips: Stir in the dried cherries and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
- Shape the scones: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it forms a cohesive ball. Pat the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick. Use a knife or bench scraper to cut the circle into 8 wedges.
- Bake: Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Brush the tops with a little extra heavy cream and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the scones to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cherry Chip Scones are a delightful combination of tart cherries and sweet chocolate, nestled in a tender, buttery scone. These scones are perfect for any occasion, offering a comforting and satisfying treat that’s sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.
