Chocolate Chip Scones

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked scones wafting through the kitchen, especially when they’re studded with rich chocolate chips. These Chocolate Chip Scones are the perfect blend of buttery, flaky goodness with just the right amount of sweetness. Serve them warm for breakfast, a delightful afternoon snack, or a sweet treat any time of the day. With a few simple ingredients, you can create these bakery-style scones right at home!

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe is a favorite because it strikes the perfect balance between flavor and simplicity. The combination of cream and butter ensures that every bite is rich and satisfying, while the chocolate chips add a decadent touch that makes these scones irresistible. They’re easy to make, don’t require complex techniques, and are perfect for any occasion, from brunch with friends to a cozy weekend treat. Plus, who can resist the joy of enjoying a warm scone with a cup of tea or coffee?

What to Buy

To whip up these delicious Chocolate Chip Scones, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons cold butter, cut into pieces
• 1 cup cold heavy cream plus 2 tablespoons
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• Turbinado sugar for sprinkling on scones

Hardware & Gadgets

Before you dive into baking, make sure you have the right tools on hand:

• Mixing bowls: A large bowl for dry ingredients and a medium bowl for wet ingredients.
• Pastry cutter: Ideal for cutting in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Cookie scoop: Helps portion out the scone dough evenly.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the dry ingredients and whisking the egg and cream.

Mastering Chocolate Chip Scones: How-To

Ready to bake some scrumptious Chocolate Chip Scones? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your scones will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold butter pieces to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving that flaky texture we all love in scones.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cold heavy cream, large egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Gently stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Step 6: Add in the Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut the circle into 8 wedges, like slicing a pizza.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking

Place the scone wedges onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the additional 2 tablespoons of cold heavy cream and sprinkle with turbinado sugar for a delightful crunch.

Step 9: Bake

Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen—this is the best part!

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the scones to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, but you can also store them in an airtight container for a few days.

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

If you’re looking to modify this recipe, here are some alternatives you can try:

• Gluten-free flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Non-dairy alternatives: Use coconut cream or almond milk in place of heavy cream.
• Vegan option: Replace butter with a plant-based butter alternative and use a flax egg instead of a large egg.
• Chocolate alternatives: Swap chocolate chips for dried fruit or nuts for a different flavor profile.

Avoid These Mistakes

When making Chocolate Chip Scones, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough scones. Mix just until combined.
• Using warm butter: Ensure your butter is cold for a flaky texture.
• Skipping the cream: The heavy cream is essential for moisture and richness.
• Not preheating the oven: A properly heated oven is crucial for optimal rise and browning.

Save It for Later

If you want to save these Chocolate Chip Scones for a later date, here’s how:

• Store baked scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freeze unbaked scone dough: Shape the scones and freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Reheat baked scones in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to restore their freshness.

FAQ

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but heavy cream provides a richer texture and moisture. If using milk, consider adding a bit more butter to compensate.

How do I know when the scones are done baking?

Look for a golden brown color on top and a slight firmness when gently pressed. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Can I add other mix-ins besides chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or even different types of chocolate for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

What’s the best way to serve scones?

They’re delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with butter, jam, or clotted cream for an extra special touch.

Weekend Projects

Looking for more baking inspiration? Check out these fantastic recipes:

• Blueberry Scones
• Whole Wheat Banana Bread
• Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Bring It to the Table

These Chocolate Chip Scones are perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or an afternoon tea party, these delightful treats will surely impress. Serve them alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea, and watch your loved ones savor each bite. They can be a wonderful centerpiece on your table, sparking joy and conversation as everyone enjoys a little indulgence together.

Baking is not just about the final product but also about the experience. So gather your ingredients, turn on some music, and enjoy the process of creating these scrumptious Chocolate Chip Scones. You’ll find that the pleasure of baking and sharing is just as rewarding as the delicious results!