Fresh-Cherry Chocolate-Chip Scones

There’s something truly magical about the combination of fresh cherries and rich chocolate chips nestled inside a tender, flaky scone. These Fresh-Cherry Chocolate-Chip Scones are the perfect way to welcome the flavors of spring and summer into your kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat with tea or coffee, these scones bring a delightful burst of juicy sweetness balanced by the creamy chocolate chips. The recipe is straightforward and yields scones that are tender on the inside with a slightly crisp, golden crust on the outside. Let’s dive into why this recipe should have a permanent spot in your baking repertoire!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Fresh-Cherry Chocolate-Chip Scones offer a beautiful balance of tart and sweet, making each bite exciting and satisfying. The fresh cherries add a juicy pop of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the melty chocolate chips, while the buttery, flaky texture of the scones makes them irresistibly good. This recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy bakery-quality scones at home without the fuss. Plus, it uses simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

What’s more, scones are incredibly versatile. You can whip up a batch in less than 30 minutes, and they’re fantastic when served warm right out of the oven or toasted the next day. If you love baked goods with fresh fruit, you’ll enjoy how these scones incorporate fresh cherries in a way that keeps the fruit bright and juicy rather than mushy or overwhelmed by other flavors.

If you’re a fan of chocolate in your baked treats, you might also love The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies, which complement the flavors of these scones beautifully.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How To Make Fresh-Cherry Chocolate-Chip Scones

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. This will ensure your scones bake evenly and are easy to remove after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This combination forms the base of your scones and ensures they rise beautifully while having just the right amount of sweetness.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized bits of butter remaining. This step is essential for creating a flaky texture in your scones.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips and Cherries

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and fresh cherries. Be careful not to overmix or break up the cherries too much, as you want them to stay in lovely halves within the dough.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture will bind the dough and add moisture and flavor.

Step 6: Form the Dough

Make a well in the center of the dry mixture and pour in the wet ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until the dough just comes together. It should be slightly sticky but manageable. Avoid overmixing to keep your scones tender.

Step 7: Shape the Scones

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Using your hands, gently pat it into a round disk about 8 inches in diameter and about 1 inch thick. Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the disk into 8 equal wedges.

Step 8: Bake

Place the scone wedges on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the scones cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool slightly. These scones are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Expert Tips

• Keep the Butter Cold: Cold butter is key to flaky scones. Don’t let it soften before mixing.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir the dough just until it comes together to avoid tough scones.
• Use Fresh Cherries: Fresh, ripe cherries give the best flavor and texture. Be sure to pit and halve them carefully.
• Chill the Dough (Optional): If your kitchen is warm, chilling the dough for 15-20 minutes before shaping can help maintain the scones’ structure.
• Brush with Cream: For a shiny, golden crust, brush the tops of the scones with a little extra cream before baking.

Variations and Customizations

• Nutty Crunch: Add 1/4 cup chopped toasted almonds or pecans for extra texture and flavor.
• Different Berries: Substitute cherries with fresh blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries for a fruity twist.
• Chocolate Variations: Use white chocolate chips or chunks of dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chips.
• Glaze It: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze flavored with a splash of vanilla or lemon juice over cooled scones.
• Spiced Scones: Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or cardamom to the dry ingredients for a warm, cozy flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Fresh-Cherry Chocolate-Chip Scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Reheating brings back that fresh-baked warmth and softness, making them taste just like the day you baked them.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the dough to prevent excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the scones.

Can I make these scones dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the unsalted butter with a cold dairy-free butter alternative and use a plant-based cream such as coconut cream to keep the creamy texture. This swap works well without compromising flavor.

How do I prevent my cherries from sinking to the bottom?

Lightly toss the halved cherries and chocolate chips in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the dough. This coating helps suspend them evenly throughout the scones.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and shape the scones, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great way to save time in the morning while still enjoying fresh-baked scones.

Conclusion

Fresh-Cherry Chocolate-Chip Scones are a delightful treat that combines the best of fresh fruit and chocolate in a tender, flaky pastry. They’re easy to make, require simple ingredients, and can be enjoyed any time of day. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch, tea party, or simply indulging on a cozy morning, these scones promise a burst of flavor and texture that will leave you coming back for more. Don’t forget to experiment with variations to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the satisfying process of baking something truly special.

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