Chocolate Chip Scones

There’s something utterly delightful about the combination of warm, flaky pastry and rich, gooey chocolate. Chocolate chip scones are the epitome of comfort food, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even an afternoon snack with a cup of tea. These scones are not just any baked good; they are a beautiful fusion of buttery sweetness and melty chocolate that will leave your taste buds dancing. If you’re looking to impress guests or just indulge in a homemade treat, this recipe is your ticket to scone heaven!

Why I Love This Recipe

This chocolate chip scone recipe is incredibly easy to follow, and the results are simply irresistible. The combination of light brown sugar and granulated sugar creates a rich flavor that complements the chocolate chips perfectly. The cold butter gives the scones their signature flaky texture, while the heavy cream adds a delightful richness. Plus, they can be whipped up in just about 30 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute treat for unexpected guests or a cozy weekend breakfast.

What We’re Using

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 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

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect scone texture and flavor.

Appliances & Accessories

To make these delicious chocolate chip scones, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl for combining dry ingredients.
• Pastry Cutter: Useful for cutting in the butter.
• Baking Sheet: To bake the scones on.
• Parchment Paper: For lining the baking sheet and easy cleanup.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Whisk: For mixing the egg and cream together.

These tools will help streamline the process, making your baking experience enjoyable and efficient.

Cooking Chocolate Chip Scones: The Process

Making chocolate chip scones is a straightforward process. Just follow these steps:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your scones will bake evenly and rise beautifully.

Step 2: Combine 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 ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The key here is to work quickly so the butter remains cold.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly crumbly.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips

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

Step 7: Shape the Scones

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead the dough a few times until it holds together, then pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut the circle into wedges or use a biscuit cutter for round scones.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking

Place the scone pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the additional heavy cream and sprinkle with turbinado sugar for a crunchy finish.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm, perhaps with a pat of butter or a dollop of jam.

Seasonal Adaptations

These chocolate chip scones are versatile and can be adapted for different seasons:

• Fall: Add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
• Winter: Incorporate dried cranberries or chopped nuts for extra texture.
• Spring: Mix in fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries.
• Summer: Try adding lemon zest and a bit of poppy seeds for a refreshing flavor.

Feel free to get creative and make these scones your own!

What Not to Do

When making chocolate chip scones, keep these tips in mind to avoid common pitfalls:

• Do not overmix the dough; this can lead to tough scones.
• Don’t skip the cold butter; it’s crucial for achieving a flaky texture.
• Avoid using warm ingredients; everything should be cold to ensure proper rising.
• Do not bake them too long; keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.

By following these guidelines, you’ll set yourself up for scone success!

Storage Pro Tips

Once you’ve made your chocolate chip scones, you’ll want to store them properly to maintain their deliciousness:

• Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the scones by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• If desired, you can also freeze the unbaked scones. Just shape them, freeze, and bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

These tips will help you enjoy your scones at their best!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture. However, keep in mind that this may alter the final texture of the scones.

How do I know when the scones are done baking?

The scones are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. They should also feel firm to the touch.

Can I make these scones ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time, shape the scones, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

What can I serve with chocolate chip scones?

These scones pair beautifully with clotted cream, butter, or jam. A cup of tea or coffee is the perfect drink to accompany them!

Our Most-Loved Recipes

If you love these chocolate chip scones, you might also enjoy some of our other favorite treats:

• Creamy Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie
• Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie Cups

These recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings!

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the details you need, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start baking. These chocolate chip scones are sure to become a favorite in your household, with their rich flavors and irresistible texture. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and enjoy the process of creating something delicious. Happy baking!