Showing posts with label scones. Show all posts
Showing posts with label scones. Show all posts

Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Bridgerton Brunch: Courtship Crumbs: Strawberry Scones Worthy of a Proposal






Delicate strawberry scones fit for courtship—perfectly tender, blushing, and worthy of a proposal at your next Bridgerton-inspired brunch.
 










A Continuing Affair: The Bridgerton Brunch Series

Dearest Reader,

With a flourish of flour and a whisper of romance, we return once more to the irresistible charms of Bridgerton Brunch—a culinary promenade where Regency refinement meets modern indulgence. Inspired by the elegance, drama, and delectable excess of the Ton, this series delivers dishes destined to grace even the most discerning of breakfast tables.

Now in its fourth installment, we follow in the dainty footsteps of our previous delights—Strawberries & Secrets: A French Toast Affair, Scandal & Spice: Lady Featherington’s Honeyed Tea Loaf, and The Duke’s Delight: Herbed Quiche with Gruyère & Asparagus. Today, however, we find ourselves swept into the tender world of pastries and proposals with a batch of blush-worthy scones.

May these Courtship Crumbs charm your guests, warm your heart, and perhaps—even win a suitor’s hand.

Yours in crumbs, courtship, and just a hint of scandal,
Slice of Southern





"Whispers abound that these strawberry scones have inspired more than one gentleman to drop to one knee. Whether it be the flaky crumb or the sweet blush of berry, one thing is certain—no teatime table shall be complete without them."

Lady Whistledown



Courtship Crumbs: Strawberry Scones Worthy of a Proposal

In the grand theatre of the ton’s endless pursuit of romance, there are few moments as enchanting as the first shared bite of something truly delightful. It is in such simple pleasures—an exchanged glance over tea, a whispered compliment between crumbs—that hearts are won and secrets are sealed.

Allow me to draw your attention to a most delectable temptation recently causing quite the stir among the elite: Courtship Crumbs, a collection of strawberry scones so utterly divine that one might hazard a guess they were crafted with nothing less than a proposal in mind. Imagine tender, flaky layers bursting with jewel-toned berries, their sweetness rivaling that of any whispered sonnet. These scones, my dear readers, are the very embodiment of flirtation baked into buttery perfection.

Whether enjoyed beneath the dappled light of a garden party or at an elegantly appointed Bridgerton Brunch—where charm and sophistication mingle as effortlessly as the finest teas—these scones promise to turn even the most hesitant courtier into a hopeful suitor.

Take heed, for in matters of the heart, as in baking, it is the smallest details—the careful folding of dough, the ripest berries—that make all the difference between a fleeting fancy and a love worthy of a proposal.





A Toast to Elegance

In the delicate dance of romance, it’s often the smallest gestures that leave the sweetest impressions. Enter Courtship Crumbs, a batch of strawberry scones so tender, buttery, and fragrant they might just inspire a proposal—or at least a second date. Bursting with sun-ripened strawberries and kissed with a hint of vanilla, these scones offer a perfect balance of flaky elegance and cozy comfort. Whether you’re serving them at a leisurely morning tea or a secret rendezvous, these scones are your deliciously charming love letter to the heart—and the palate.





Perfect Pairings for a Bridgerton Brunch Table

To truly capture the essence of a Bridgerton Brunch, these strawberry scones deserve companions as refined and delightful as themselves. Consider these elegant pairings to elevate your table to ton-worthy heights:

  • Tea Pairing:  Earl Grey with a Twist of Bergamot — The quintessential tea for delicate pastries, its citrus notes perfectly highlight the sweetness of fresh strawberries.
  • Libation:  Champagne or Sparkling Rosé — For those moments when brunch calls for a touch of sparkle and celebration.
  • Music Suggestion:  Classical Strings & Harp Melodies — Gentle compositions by composers like Vivaldi or Debussy provide a graceful soundtrack that evokes the elegance of the Regency era.
  • Decor Tip:  Fresh Floral Arrangements & Vintage China — Think delicate roses, peonies, or lilacs in crystal vases, paired with fine china teacups and linen napkins to create a table setting worthy of the ton.





Lady Whistledown’s Final Word


Should a single treat be deemed capable of causing whispers and stolen glances across the drawing rooms of the ton, these strawberry scones would surely be the culprit. With each tender, buttery bite bursting with the sweetest hint of summer berries, they offer just the right touch of decadence to quicken a lady’s heartbeat. Share them graciously with your guests—or indulge in secret, for discretion is the soul of elegance.

Until we meet again, dear reader… may your table be as radiant and inviting as a twilight soirée beneath the chandeliers of Grosvenor Square.






















Wednesday, March 19, 2025

Spiced Ginger-Pear Scones - Buttery, Flaky, and Irresistible!

Spiced Ginger-Pear Scones – A Buttery, Flaky Treat with the Perfect Touch of Sweet & Spice!

 


Spiced Ginger-Pear Scones - Buttery, Flaky, and Irresistible!



There’s nothing quite like the warm, buttery goodness of homemade scones, and these Spiced Ginger-Pear Scones take things to the next level! Delicately flavored with juicy pears and a touch of sweetness, these scones get a little kick from crystallized ginger, creating the perfect balance of warmth and spice. With a golden, flaky texture that rivals any bakery-style treat, they’re an irresistible addition to your breakfast or brunch spread. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to prepare—using my go-to scone recipe with just a few flavorful add-ins!

These scones are perfect for spring brunches, cozy Sunday breakfasts, or an afternoon pick-me-up with a cup of coffee or tea. Whether you're hosting friends or simply treating yourself, they bring a hint of elegance to any occasion without requiring hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender pears and spicy-sweet ginger makes them feel special yet approachable—an ideal bake for both seasoned scone lovers and beginners alike.

So why should you make these? Because they’re simple, bakery-worthy, and full of flavor! The buttery layers create the ultimate melt-in-your-mouth experience, while the fruity, spiced notes make each bite truly memorable. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven with a drizzle of honey or served alongside your favorite tea, these Spiced Ginger-Pear Scones are bound to become a new favorite in your baking routine!






What Ingredients do I need?

Pantry Staples

  • All-purpose flour
  • Granulated sugar
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Dairy

  • Butter (unsalted)
  • Whole milk
  • Eggs

Produce

  • Pears (ripe but firm)  I used D'Anjou pears

Baking Add-Ins

  • Crystallized ginger




Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

  • Flour Substitutes:  Whole wheat flour (use half whole wheat, half all-purpose for a heartier texture)
  • Sugar Substitutes:  Brown sugar (for a deeper, caramel-like flavor), Coconut sugar (for a less refined option), Sugar Substitute (for a lower carb version)
  • Milk Substitutes:  Heavy cream (for an even richer scone), Buttermilk (adds a slight tang and tender texture)


Variations

  • Maple Pecan Pear Scones:  Swap the crystallized ginger for chopped pecans,  Add 1-2 tbsp maple syrup to the dough for extra warmth, Drizzle with a maple glaze (powdered sugar + maple syrup + a touch of milk)
  • Chai-Spiced Pear Scones:  Add ½ tsp cinnamon, ¼ tsp cardamom, and a pinch of cloves for a chai-inspired flavor.  Substitute brown sugar for a deeper sweetness,  Serve with honey butter for a cozy treat.
  • Lemon Ginger-Pear Scones:  Add 1 tbsp fresh lemon zest to the dough for a bright citrusy twist, Swap the milk for buttermilk to enhance tanginess, Drizzle with a lemon glaze (powdered sugar + lemon juice).  
  • Honey Almond Pear Scones:  Replace crystallized ginger with toasted sliced almonds, Use honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetness, Top with a light honey drizzle after baking.





Kitchen Tips and Notes

  • Keep Ingredients Cold:  Use cold butter straight from the fridge and cut it into the flour quickly to create flaky layers. You can even freeze the butter and grate it for even distribution.
  • Don’t Overmix the Dough:  

    Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined—overworking the dough can make the scones tough instead of tender.
  • Handle the Dough Gently:  When kneading, use a light touch—just enough to bring the dough together.  Press the dough straight down with the biscuit cutter rather than twisting it—this helps the scones rise evenly.
  • For Extra Flakiness:  After cutting, place the unbaked scones in the freezer for 10–15 minutes before baking. This chills the butter again, resulting in better layers.
  • Serving & Storage:  Best served warm, fresh out of the oven with butter, honey, or jam.  Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temp for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat in a 300°F oven for a few minutes.






    EQUIPMENT YOU MAY NEED    

  • (Optional) Box Grater – Instead of cutting butter in with a pastry cutter, freeze the butter and grate it with a box grater for quick, even distribution.
  • Whisk – for mixing the dry ingredients and whisking the egg
  • (Optional) Bench Scraper – Perfect for lifting and shaping dough without sticking to your hands. Also great for cleaning up flour from your work surface!
  • (Optional) Fluted Biscuit Cutter – Gives your scones a bakery-style look with beautifully crimped edges.





HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.













Spiced Ginger-Pear Scones 


yield:   18 scones


3 cups all purpose flour
3 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
4 tsp baking powder
3/4 cup butter (cold)
1 egg
1 cup whole milk
1 1/2 pears, peeled and small diced
1/3 +1/4 cup crystallized ginger 

Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

Add the dry ingredients to a large bowl and combine.

Using a pastry cutter cut cold butter into flour mixture until there are pea-sized pieces of butter throughout.  Add the milk, egg, pear and ginger and mix just until combined. 

Remove the dough to a generously floured work surface and knead just until it comes together. Pat the dough out to 3/4 - 1 inch thickness and cut with a biscuit cutter.  

Place the scones on a baking sheet and bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until golden brown on top.  Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack for several minutes.  Serve warm.





















Monday, February 10, 2025

Raspberry-White Chocolate Dream Scones

Sweeten Your Valentine's Day with Raspberry-White Chocolate Dream Scones 





Raspberry-White Chocolate Dream Scones


With Valentine’s Day just around the corner this Friday, there’s no better way to celebrate than with a batch of Raspberry-White Chocolate Dream Scones. These heart-shaped treats are the perfect way to show love—whether you’re surprising your partner with breakfast in bed, treating your kids to a sweet start to the day, or bringing a special homemade gift to a friend. The combination of vibrant raspberries and creamy white chocolate creates a romantic flavor pairing, while the buttery, flaky texture makes them simply irresistible.

Baking these scones is a heartfelt way to say "I love you." The dough comes together quickly with simple ingredients, and cutting them into adorable heart shapes makes them extra festive. The raspberries create naturally beautiful pink and red hues, making them the perfect Valentine’s treat without any artificial coloring. Whether you serve them warm with a drizzle of white chocolate, a dusting of powdered sugar, or simply as they are, they’re guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone’s face.

One of the best things about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together with a handful of pantry staples. The key is working with cold butter, which creates that irresistible flaky texture, and handling the dough as little as possible to keep the scones light and tender.

These scones aren’t just for breakfast—pair them with a cup of tea for a cozy Valentine’s afternoon, or wrap them up in a cute box as a homemade edible gift. This Valentine’s Day, skip the store-bought chocolates and bake up something truly special, straight from the heart! ❤️

Enjoy!






What Ingredients do I need?

Refrigerated:

  • Butter
  • Egg
  • Milk

Produce:

  • Fresh raspberries

Baking & Pantry Staples:

  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Sugar
  • White chocolate chips




Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions:

  • Butter → Unsalted Margarine or Coconut Oil (solid form) – Keeps the flaky texture, but butter gives the best flavor.
  • Milk → Half-and-Half, Heavy Cream, or a Non-Dairy Alternative (like Almond or Oat Milk) – Stick with a creamy option for the best results.
  • White Chocolate Chips → Chopped White Chocolate Bar or Yogurt Chips – Keeps the sweet and creamy element.
  • All-Purpose Flour → Pastry Flour or a 50/50 mix of All-Purpose and Whole Wheat Flour – For a slightly lighter texture.
  • Fresh Raspberries → Frozen Raspberries (Used Straight from the Freezer) – Prevents them from breaking apart too much in the dough.

Variations

  • Dark Chocolate Raspberry Scones – Swap the white chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips or chunks for a richer, slightly less sweet flavor.
  • Lemon Raspberry Scones – Add zest of one lemon to the dough for a bright, citrusy twist that enhances the raspberries.
  • Strawberry-White Chocolate Scones – Replace raspberries with chopped fresh or frozen strawberries for a slightly milder berry flavor.
  • Glazed Raspberry-White Chocolate Scones – Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze or melted white chocolate after baking for extra sweetness.



Kitchen Tips and Notes

  • Keep the Butter Cold – Cold butter is key to achieving a flaky, tender texture. If the butter starts to soften, pop the dough in the fridge for a few minutes before shaping.
  • Handle the Dough Gently – Overmixing or kneading too much can make the scones dense and tough. Mix just until combined for the best results.
  • Flour Your Work Surface & Cutter – The dough is sticky, so lightly flour your hands, rolling pin, and cookie cutter to make shaping easier.
  • Shape Alternatives – Don’t have a heart-shaped cutter? Simply pat the dough into a round disc and cut into wedges for a classic scone look.
  • Bake Until Golden – Keep an eye on the oven; scones should be lightly golden on top and firm to the touch when done.
  • Serve Fresh & Warm – These scones taste best right out of the oven but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly for that fresh-baked warmth.





     EQUIPMENT YOU MAY NEED     




HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.










Raspberry-White Chocolate Dream Scones 


makes 12 scones


3 cups all-purpose flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 Tablespoons sugar
3/4 cup butter, cold
1 pint raspberries
1 egg
1 cup milk
1/2 - 3/4 cup white chocolate chips


Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

Add the dry ingredients to a large bowl and combine.

Using a pastry cutter cut cold butter into flour mixture until there are pea-sized pieces of butter throughout.  Add the raspberries and white chocolate chips and mix.

Add the milk and egg to a measuring cup and whisk to combine.  Add to the dry ingredients and mix just until combined and everything is moistened.  Mixing too much will create tough scones and break up the raspberries.   Note:  you will find that the raspberries may break up somewhat as they are very delicate.  Try to mix carefully.

Remove the dough to a generously floured work surface and knead just til it comes together. Pat the dough out to 3/4 - 1 inch thickness and cut with a heart shaped cookie cutter.  

Place the scones on a parchment lined baking sheet and bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until golden brown on top.  Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack for several minutes.  Serve warm.






















Sunday, December 29, 2024

Harvest Pumpkin Scones

Warm, spiced, and irresistibly tender, these Harvest Pumpkin Scones bring the cozy flavors of fall to your kitchen. Packed with cinnamon chips and topped with a sweet sparkle, they're the perfect treat for crisp mornings or afternoon indulgence!






Harvest Pumpkin Scones



I'm here all fall and winter for everything pumpkin!  These Harvest Pumpkin Scones are the perfect blend of cozy fall flavors and comforting texture, making them an irresistible treat for pumpkin lovers. With a hint of pumpkin pie spice, bursts of sweet cinnamon chips, and a delicate crunch from sparkling sugar, they strike the perfect balance between indulgent and homemade charm. Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee, serving them at a fall gathering, or simply craving something seasonal, these scones are easy to make and guaranteed to impress!

These scones are surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers! With just a few simple steps, you’ll mix the dry ingredients, cut in the butter, and stir in the wet ingredients to form the dough. No fancy equipment or advanced techniques are needed—just a bowl, a mixing spoon, and a little time. Shaping and cutting the dough is straightforward, and the scones bake quickly, making them a perfect recipe for a cozy weekend treat or a last-minute fall-inspired snack.

Enjoy!






What Ingredients do I need?

Dry Ingredients:

  • All-Purpose Flour 
  • Sugar 
  • Baking Powder 
  • Salt 
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice 
  • Cinnamon Chips 
  • Coarse Sparkling Sugar (optional, for topping)

Wet Ingredients:

  • Pumpkin Purée (100% pure pumpkin not pumpkin pie mix)
  • Eggs 

Dairy:

  • Unsalted Butter 




Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

  • All-Purpose Flour: Swap with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.


  • Mix with All-Purpose Flour: For a softer texture, use a blend of 50% whole wheat flour and 50% all-purpose flour (e.g., 1 1/3 cups whole wheat flour + 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour).


  • Sugar: Use brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor or coconut sugar for a natural alternative.


  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: Make your own using a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. (see recipe below under Kitchen Tips and Notes)


  • Cinnamon Chips: Substitute with white chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries for a different twist.


  • Unsalted Butter: Replace with vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

  • Coarse Sparkling Sugar: Use regular granulated sugar or omit for a less sweet topping.

  • Variations
    • Chocolate Lovers:  Replace cinnamon chips with chocolate chips or mini chocolate chunks for a rich twist.
    • Nutty Delight:  Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
    • Cranberry Pumpkin:  Swap out cinnamon chips for dried cranberries to add a sweet and tangy flavor.
    • Spiced Orange:  Add orange zest to the dough for a fresh citrus note that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin and spices.
    • Sugar-Free or Low-Sugar:  Substitute sugar with coconut sugar, maple syrup, or a natural sweetener like monk fruit.




    Kitchen Tips and Notes

    Tips
    • Homemade pumpkin pie spice blend: 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons ground ginger, 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg. 1 1/2 teaspoons ground allspice, 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cloves

    Notes

    Dough Tips

    • Keep Ingredients Cold: Use cold butter and eggs to ensure a flaky texture. You can even chill the flour beforehand.
    • Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until it comes together to avoid tough scones. Overworking the dough can develop gluten and make them dense.

    Shaping the Dough

    • Flour Your Surface: Lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking, but avoid using too much flour, which can dry out the dough.
    • Even Sizing: Shape the dough into a flat round and cut into equal wedges for even baking.

    Serving Suggestions

    • Fresh is Best: Scones are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Serve warm with butter, jam, or even a drizzle of maple glaze.
    • Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze unbaked scones for later use. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.


         Equipment You May Need     



    HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.













    Harvest Pumpkin Scones



    Yield: 8 scones



    2 3/4 cups All-Purpose Flour
    1/3 cup sugar
    1 tablespoon baking powder
    3/4 teaspoon salt
    1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice 
    8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
    1 heaping cup cinnamon chips
    2/3 cup pumpkin purée
    2 large eggs
    Coarse sparkling sugar, for topping


    Preheat the oven to 425°F.

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.  Work in the butter just until the mixture is  crumbly with pea sized butter pieces.

    Stir in the cinnamon chips.  In a small bowl whisk together the pumpkin and eggs until smooth.  Add to the dry ingredients and stir until all is moistened and holds together.

    Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.  Scrape the dough onto a lightly floured cutting board.  Divide it in half.  With each half create a 5 - 6" round circle about 3/4" thick.  Repeat with the second half of dough.  Sprinkle each circle with coarse white sparkling sugar or cinnamon sugar.

    Using a knife or bench knife slice each circle into 6 wedges.    Carefully separate the wedges and place them on the parchment lined baking sheet about 1/2" apart.  

    Bake the scones for 22 to 25 minutes, or until they're golden brown and dry on top.  Place scones on a cooling rack to cool and serve warm.  











    LinkWithin

    Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...