Yogurt and Almond Scones

There’s something truly magical about the combination of yogurt and almonds, especially when they come together in a warm, flaky scone. The beauty of these Yogurt and Almond Scones lies not only in their delightful flavor but also in their tender crumb and the nutty crunch that the almonds provide. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack, these scones are sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, they come together quickly and easily, making them a wonderful addition to your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Yogurt and Almond Scones are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Whether you’re spreading a generous layer of butter on them, drizzling them with honey, or enjoying them plain, each bite is a delightful experience. They’re perfect for meal prep, can be frozen for later, and are a healthier alternative to traditional scones thanks to the yogurt, which adds moisture and reduces the need for excess butter. Plus, almonds provide a great source of healthy fats and protein!

Ingredient Breakdown

To make these scrumptious scones, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 300g flour: This is the foundation of your scone, providing structure.
• 60g butter: Unsalted butter works best for flavor; it creates a rich, buttery taste.
• 150-200ml yogurt: Use plain yogurt for moisture; it helps bind the ingredients and adds a subtle tang.
• 1 pinch salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 5g baking powder: This is essential for leavening, giving your scones their light texture.
• Honey: Adds natural sweetness and pairs beautifully with almond flavors.
• Flaked almonds: These provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.

Prep & Cook Tools

Before you dive into making your Yogurt and Almond Scones, gather the following tools:

• Mixing bowl: To combine your dry ingredients with the wet.
• Pastry cutter or fork: For cutting the butter into the flour.
• Baking sheet: To bake your scones on; line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Oven: Preheat it to ensure even baking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Cooling rack: To let your scones cool after baking.

Build Yogurt and Almond Scones Step by Step

Making Yogurt and Almond Scones is a straightforward process. Just follow these steps:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This ensures that your scones bake evenly and get that beautiful golden color.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the scones from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Make sure they are well combined.

Step 4: Cut in Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or a fork, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 5: Add Yogurt and Honey

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the yogurt and a drizzle of honey. Start with 150ml of yogurt, adding more if needed to bring the dough together.

Step 6: Incorporate Flaked Almonds

Gently fold in the flaked almonds, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Form the Scones

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it just enough to bring it together. Pat it into a circle about 2.5cm thick. Cut into wedges or use a round cutter to shape your scones.

Step 8: Bake

Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Serve warm with additional honey or your favorite spread.

Fit It to Your Goals

These Yogurt and Almond Scones can be easily tailored to suit your dietary preferences:

• Gluten-free: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend.
• Vegan: Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free yogurt.
• Lower sugar: Reduce the amount of honey or omit it entirely for a less sweet scone.
• Add-ins: Consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for extra flavor.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

While making Yogurt and Almond Scones, keep these common issues in mind:

If your dough feels too dry, add a little more yogurt to achieve the right consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too wet, sprinkle in a bit more flour until it holds together.

• Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the dough as this can lead to tough scones. Mix just until combined.
• Underbaking: Ensure you bake them long enough to achieve that golden crust; underbaking will result in a doughy texture.
• Not rising: Make sure your baking powder is fresh; old leavening agents won’t help your scones rise properly.

Prep Ahead & Store

If you want to make your baking routine even easier, here are some tips for prepping ahead:

You can prepare the dough in advance and shape it into rounds or wedges. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked scones for up to a month. When ready to bake, simply place them directly into the oven from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

• Storage: Keep leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze baked scones, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes.

Quick Q&A

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt will add even more creaminess and a slight tang to your scones.

What can I use instead of almonds?

If you have nut allergies or simply prefer a different flavor, you can substitute with chopped pecans, walnuts, or even seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

How do I know when my scones are done baking?

They should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Can I add chocolate to this recipe?

Definitely! Chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips would be a delicious addition to your Yogurt and Almond Scones.

Healthy-ish Favorites

If you enjoyed these scones, you might also love these healthy recipes:

• Baked Oatmeal Cups – A nutritious grab-and-go option.
• Chocolate Overnight Oats – A delightful and healthy breakfast choice.

Serve & Enjoy

Now that your Yogurt and Almond Scones are baked to perfection, it’s time to dig in! These scones are best enjoyed warm, perhaps with a cup of tea or coffee. The combination of flavors and textures will have you coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple morning treat, these scones are sure to bring a smile to your face.

Baking is not just about the finished product; it’s about the joy of the process, the aroma filling your kitchen, and the happiness it brings to those you share it with. So go ahead, whip up a batch of these delightful Yogurt and Almond Scones, and enjoy every delicious bite!