There's something incredibly comforting about a warm scone fresh out of the oven, and these Golden Honey Almond Scones are no exception. They're sweetened with a touch of honey and filled with crunchy almonds, making them perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon treat.
All-purpose flour forms the base of these scones, providing structure and stability. Granulated sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the honey. Baking powder ensures the scones rise beautifully, giving them that desired fluffiness. A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness and bringing out the nuttiness of the almonds. Unsalted butter is crucial for that tender crumb texture. Make sure it's cold to achieve the right consistency. Whole milk adds moisture and richness, while honey adds natural sweetness and a floral aroma. A large egg helps bind everything together, and vanilla extract adds a subtle depth of flavor. Finally, the sliced almonds provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
These scones are delightful on their own, but for a special touch, serve them with a dollop of clotted cream or a smear of butter. Pairing them with a warm cup of chamomile tea or a frothy cappuccino can elevate your scone experience to a whole new level.
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your scones won’t stick and will have a nice, even bake. Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Use a whisk to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Now, it's time to cut in the butter. You can use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the chilled, diced butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The key here is to keep the butter cold, which gives the scones their flaky texture.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, honey, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients, and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough scones.
Gently fold in the sliced almonds. Again, avoid overmixing to maintain the scones' tender texture. Turn the dough onto a floured surface, and pat it into a 1-inch thick round. This is where you shape your scones, so take your time to get an even thickness.
Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 wedges. Place these wedges on your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown. The smell will be irresistible!
Once out of the oven, drizzle with extra honey while still warm. This not only adds sweetness but gives the scones a lovely, shiny finish.
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