Banana Scones

These Banana Scones combine the sweetness of ripe bananas with the comforting texture of freshly baked scones. The slight cinnamon flavor adds warmth and a touch of spice, making them an irresistible treat for any time of day. Perfect for breakfast or served with a cup of tea, these scones will bring a smile to your face with every bite.

The soft and crumbly texture pairs wonderfully with the natural sweetness of bananas, creating a balanced flavor that’s not too sweet but just right. Whether you’re enjoying them on a cozy morning or sharing them with friends, these scones will become a staple in your baking repertoire. Plus, they’re easy to make and a great way to use up overripe bananas!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 egg, lightly beaten

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

3. Add the cold cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Stir in the mashed bananas, heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until just combined. The dough should be slightly sticky.

5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently a few times until it holds together. Pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick.

6. Use a sharp knife to cut the dough into 8 wedges, like a pizza.

7. Place the wedges onto the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with a little extra heavy cream for a golden finish.

8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes Kcal: 250 kcal per scone | Servings: 8 scones

Why Banana Scones are a Great Choice

Banana Scones stand out for their natural sweetness and moisture. Ripe bananas contain a high amount of sugar and moisture, which eliminates the need for as much added sugar or fat in the recipe. The banana’s sweetness means that these scones are naturally flavorful without being overwhelmingly sugary. This makes them a great option for those who want a delicious treat without an excessive amount of added sugar.

Additionally, banana scones provide a healthier alternative to some more indulgent baked goods. Bananas are rich in potassium, fiber, and essential vitamins, contributing to your daily nutritional intake. You get a dose of fruit while enjoying the comforting texture of scones, making them a great snack option for both adults and children alike.

For those who love quick and easy recipes, banana scones can be prepared in less than an hour, making them perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings. Plus, they’re easily customizable and can be paired with various fillings or toppings, making them a versatile and fun recipe to experiment with.

Tips for Perfect Banana Scones

Achieving the perfect banana scone involves a few simple techniques. First, it’s crucial to use ripe bananas, as they bring both flavor and moisture to the scones. Overripe bananas are ideal because they’re sweeter and softer, ensuring that your scones will have the right texture and taste. When mashing the bananas, aim for a smooth consistency without large chunks, which ensures even distribution throughout the dough.

Another key tip is to handle the dough gently. Scone dough can become tough if overworked, so it’s important to mix the ingredients until just combined. If you knead the dough too much, the scones may turn out dense rather than light and fluffy. The dough should be slightly sticky but not too wet. If it’s too sticky, dust your hands and the work surface with a little flour to make it easier to handle.

For the best texture, make sure the butter is cold when added to the flour mixture. The cold butter creates pockets of air in the dough, which results in a flakier, lighter scone. Additionally, be sure to bake your scones at a high temperature, around 375°F (190°C), so they rise quickly and become golden brown and crisp on the outside while staying soft and moist on the inside.

Serving Suggestions for Banana Scones

Banana scones are perfect on their own, but you can elevate them with a few creative touches. Serve them warm with a dollop of clotted cream or butter for a traditional treat, or top them with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for an added layer of sweetness. If you prefer something a bit richer, try adding a few chocolate chips or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar to the top before baking.

For a more indulgent twist, you can serve banana scones with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, turning them into a dessert that is sure to impress your guests. These scones also pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea, coffee, or even a glass of freshly squeezed juice. Their soft, slightly sweet flavor complements many different beverages and makes them the perfect choice for afternoon tea or a casual brunch with friends.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a spoonful of nut butter, such as peanut or almond butter, in between two scones to make a fun sandwich-style snack. The richness of the nut butter pairs beautifully with the banana flavor, creating a satisfying and balanced treat.

Variations to Try with Banana Scones

While banana scones are fantastic on their own, there are many ways to customize the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas to help you make your banana scones even more exciting:

• Chocolate Chip Banana Scones: Add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the dough for an irresistible chocolate-banana combination.

• Nutty Banana Scones: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts into the dough for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the bananas.

• Banana and Cinnamon Scones: Boost the cinnamon flavor by adding extra cinnamon to the dough or dusting the scones with cinnamon sugar before baking.

• Vegan Banana Scones: For a vegan version, simply replace the butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil and use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk in place of heavy cream.

• Gluten-Free Banana Scones: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the scones suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.

Each of these variations offers a different spin on the classic banana scone, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your preferences or dietary needs.

Conclusion

Banana scones are an incredibly versatile and delicious treat that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Their naturally sweet flavor, coupled with their soft, crumbly texture, makes them a delightful choice for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, banana scones are an accessible recipe for both novice and experienced bakers.

Whether you enjoy them plain, with butter, or topped with your favorite fillings, these scones are guaranteed to be a hit. The recipe can be customized with various additions, such as nuts, chocolate chips, or spices, to suit your taste. Plus, the addition of ripe bananas not only enhances the flavor but also provides nutritional benefits, making banana scones a guilt-free indulgence.

So, the next time you have overripe bananas, don’t throw them away—use them to bake a batch of these delicious scones! You’ll love the warm, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen and the joy that comes with every bite.