These Lemon Raspberry Scones offer a delightful blend of zesty lemon and sweet, tart raspberries nestled in a perfectly flaky pastry. The golden brown top and tender interior make them the ideal treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Perfect for any occasion, these scones are especially great when paired with a hot cup of tea or coffee. The vibrant raspberry and citrus flavors make every bite feel like a fresh burst of summer, even on the cloudiest days. Whether for brunch, dessert, or a simple treat, these scones will surely become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 tablespoon milk (for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for topping)
Directions:
-
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
-
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.
-
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the raspberries.
-
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently a few times until it just comes together.
-
Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick round disk. Cut the dough into 8 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
-
Brush the tops of the scones with milk and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
-
Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
-
Allow the scones to cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 8 scones
Why Choose Lemon Raspberry Scones?
Scones are a classic baked good, cherished for their crumbly, buttery texture and their ability to pair beautifully with a variety of flavors. Lemon and raspberry, two ingredients that are often paired in summer desserts, work together effortlessly in this recipe. The acidity of lemon provides a bright contrast to the juicy sweetness of the raspberries, creating a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and satisfying. These scones are not overly sweet, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer a more subtle, balanced dessert.
Additionally, lemon and raspberry are packed with nutrients and antioxidants. Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and promote healthy skin, while raspberries are high in fiber and antioxidants that support overall health. By combining these two ingredients, you’re not just making a delicious treat—you’re also adding a burst of nutrients to your diet.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Lemon Raspberry Scones are versatile enough to suit any occasion. They can be served at a casual weekend breakfast, as a special treat for a tea party, or even as a light dessert after dinner. Their vibrant color and fresh flavors make them an appealing choice for spring and summer gatherings, but they’re delicious enough to enjoy year-round.
If you’re hosting a brunch or afternoon tea, these scones will undoubtedly impress your guests. They can be easily paired with a variety of beverages, from a hot cup of Earl Grey to a refreshing glass of iced tea. Their bright, citrusy flavor complements both fruity and floral teas, creating a harmonious flavor combination.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes this Lemon Raspberry Scones recipe stand out is its simplicity and the balance of ingredients. The use of heavy cream helps create a rich, tender crumb, while the butter contributes to the scone’s flaky texture. The lemon zest imparts a burst of citrusy fragrance without overpowering the scone’s other flavors. Adding fresh raspberries brings a touch of sweetness and juiciness that perfectly complements the light and crumbly scone base.
Another key to the success of this recipe is the method. The dough is mixed together just enough to combine the ingredients, which is crucial for achieving that perfect scone texture. Overmixing the dough can lead to dense scones, so it’s important to handle the dough gently to ensure they bake up light and fluffy.
How to Customize Your Lemon Raspberry Scones
While the classic Lemon Raspberry Scone recipe is already delicious on its own, there are several ways you can customize it to suit your personal tastes. If you prefer a slightly sweeter scone, you can add a bit more sugar to the dough or glaze the scones with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice. The glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and helps enhance the lemon flavor.
For those who like a more indulgent treat, you can also add white chocolate chips to the dough for an extra burst of sweetness. The creamy white chocolate pairs wonderfully with the tangy lemon and the tart raspberries, adding a new dimension of flavor to the scones.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting the raspberries with other berries like blueberries, blackberries, or strawberries. You can also experiment with adding herbs like fresh mint or basil to the dough for a unique twist. The beauty of scones is that they’re incredibly adaptable, so don’t hesitate to get creative and try different variations.
How to Serve Lemon Raspberry Scones
Lemon Raspberry Scones are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they’re warm and flaky. However, they can also be stored for later use. To keep them fresh, place the scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for up to a month. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes until they’re heated through.
Serving these scones is as simple as placing them on a plate with a hot cup of tea or coffee. For an added touch, you can serve them with clotted cream, lemon curd, or even a dollop of whipped cream. The tangy lemon curd pairs beautifully with the scones, enhancing the citrus flavor and adding richness to each bite.
Nutritional Benefits of Lemon Raspberry Scones
While scones are often considered a treat, they can also offer some nutritional benefits. Lemons, as mentioned earlier, are a great source of vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and promotes skin health. Raspberries are rich in fiber, which supports digestion, and are also packed with antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation in the body. By incorporating these ingredients into your scones, you’re adding a bit of nutrition to your indulgent treat.
That said, scones are still a dessert and should be enjoyed in moderation. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute some of the butter or heavy cream with healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt or almond milk. While this will alter the texture slightly, it’s an excellent way to make the recipe a bit more waistline-friendly.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Lemon Raspberry Scones
Lemon Raspberry Scones are the perfect combination of tangy citrus, sweet berries, and flaky pastry. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or simply as a weekday treat, they are sure to delight anyone who tries them. The versatility of this recipe means that you can customize it to suit your preferences, making it a go-to treat for any time of the year.
The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make these scones an ideal choice for bakers of all levels. They are the perfect addition to your breakfast or tea-time spread, and their vibrant color and refreshing flavor will undoubtedly brighten your day. Whether served as a snack or a dessert, these Lemon Raspberry Scones are a delicious and satisfying treat that will leave everyone asking for more.