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     

• Mixing Bowls – One large for dry ingredients, one small for wet ingredients.
• Pastry Cutter  – To cut cold butter into the flour mixture.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Whisk – To mix the egg and milk together.
• Wooden Spoon – For gently folding in raspberries and chocolate chips.
• Heart-Shaped Cookie Cutter – To cut out festive scones.
• Baking Sheet – To bake the scones evenly.
• Parchment Paper – To prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
• Wire Cooling Rack – For cooling the scones after baking.

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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.

Vibrant Za’atar Chickpea Salad: A Burst of Flavor in Every Bite

A vibrant, herb-packed chickpea salad infused with zesty Za’atar and a garlic-lime vinaigrette—fresh, flavorful, and effortlessly delicious!

Vibrant Za’atar Chickpea Salad

This Vibrant Za’atar Chickpea Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that brings the bold, aromatic essence of the Mediterranean straight to your table. The combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy Roma tomatoes, zesty red onion, and hearty chickpeas creates the perfect balance of textures, while the generous handfuls of fresh parsley and dill add a bright, herbaceous touch. But what truly sets this salad apart is the Za’atar spice blend—a fragrant mix of thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds that infuses every bite with a warm, tangy depth of flavor. Paired with a simple yet zesty garlic-lime vinaigrette, this salad is an absolute delight for the senses.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. It’s perfect for a light lunch, a side dish at dinner, or even a refreshing meal prep option for the week ahead. Hosting a gathering? This salad makes a fantastic addition to a Mediterranean-inspired spread alongside hummus, pita, and grilled meats. It’s also great for picnics, potlucks, and BBQs, as it holds up well and only gets better as the flavors meld. Whether you're looking for a nutritious weekday meal or a vibrant dish to impress guests, this salad has you covered.

Aside from its incredible taste, this salad is quick and easy to prepare using simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Chickpeas provide a satisfying protein boost, while fresh veggies and herbs keep things light and refreshing. With just a few minutes of chopping and whisking, you can have this dish ready in no time—no complicated steps, no fancy equipment required. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe proves that healthy, delicious food can be both effortless and exciting. So, grab your ingredients, sprinkle in some Za’atar magic, and enjoy a burst of Mediterranean flavor in every bite!

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

Produce:

• Roma tomatoes
• English cucumber
• Red onion
• Fresh parsley
• Fresh dill
• Garlic cloves
• Lime

Pantry Staples:

• Canned chickpeas
• Za’atar spice
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt & pepper

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Za’atar Spice Substitutes:  Mix of dried thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac (if sumac is unavailable, try lemon zest for tang) or Italian seasoning + sesame seeds + a dash of lemon zest

• Roma Tomatoes Substitutes:  Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved or Heirloom tomatoes for a juicier, more colorful option

• English Cucumber Substitutes:  Persian cucumbers for a similar mild flavor or Regular cucumbers (peeled and deseeded to reduce bitterness)

• Chickpeas Substitutes:  

  White beans (cannellini or great northern) for a softer texture

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• For the Best Flavor, Let It Marinate: Allow the salad to sit for at least 10–15 minutes after adding the dressing. This helps the Za’atar spice and vinaigrette soak into the chickpeas and veggies, enhancing the flavor.

• Use Fresh Herbs for Maximum Freshness: Fresh parsley and dill are key to the salad’s vibrant taste.

• Rinse & Drain Chickpeas Well:  Canned chickpeas should be rinsed thoroughly under cold water to remove excess sodium and any canned taste. Patting them dry will help them absorb the flavors better.

• Make It a Meal:  Turn this salad into a full meal by serving it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. You can also stuff it into pita bread or serve it over a bed of quinoa or couscous for added heartiness.

• Store Leftovers Smartly:  This salad stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container.

• All about Za'atar:  this spice mix is a mixture of sumac, sesame seed & herbs used throughout the Middle East and Mediterranean. Sprinkle it on vegetables, salads, and more!

     EQUIPMENT YOU MAY NEED     

• Cutting Board – For chopping the veggies and herbs.
• Sharp Knife – To dice tomatoes, cucumbers, and slice onions evenly.
• Mixing Bowl – A large bowl to toss the salad ingredients together.
• Whisk  – For mixing the dressing smoothly.
• Citrus Juicer (Optional) – To easily extract fresh lime juice.
• Colander or Strainer – For rinsing and draining the chickpeas.
• Measuring Spoons & Cups – For accurate ingredient portions.
• Salad Spoons – To mix and serve the salad effortlessly.
• Za'atar Spice mix - an important part of the salad that should be missed!

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Vibrant Za’atar Chickpea Salad: A Burst of Flavor in Every Bite

serves 4

1 cup canned chickpeas, drained
2 tbsp Za’atar spice
3 Roma tomatoes, diced
1/2 English cucumber, diced
1 small red onion, sliced in 1/2 moons
1 cup chopped parsley
1 cup chopped dill

For the Garlic Vinaigrette:

1–2 garlic cloves, minced
1 large lime, juice of
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt & Pepper

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumbers, chickpeas, red onions, parsley and dill. Add the remaining Za’atar, and mix gently.

In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients and pour the dressing over the chickpea salad and mix.

Fluffy Banana Spice Waffles: Warm, Cozy & Perfectly Crisp!

Fluffy, spiced, and crisp with every bite—made extra delicious with a lush banana mash in the batter!

Fluffy Banana Spice Waffles

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Fluffy Banana Spice Waffles.  These waffles aren’t just your average breakfast treat—they’re infused with a lush banana mash, which adds natural sweetness, moisture, and an irresistibly tender texture. Unlike traditional waffles, where bananas are often just a topping, this recipe incorporates them directly into the batter, creating a rich, subtly sweet flavor with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. The result? A waffle that’s golden and crisp on the outside, yet soft and fluffy on the inside—pure breakfast bliss!

These waffles are perfect for any occasion. Whip up a batch on lazy weekend mornings, serve them as a special holiday brunch treat, or even make them for a cozy breakfast-for-dinner night. They’re also a great way to use up overripe bananas—turning them into something warm, spiced, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these waffles will make any morning feel a little more special.

What makes this recipe even better is how simple it is to make. You likely already have everything you need in your pantry—flour, baking powder, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, eggs, milk, and vanilla—plus a couple of ripe bananas. There’s no need for fancy ingredients or complicated steps. Just mash the bananas, mix the batter, and let your waffle iron do the work. In no time, your kitchen will be filled with the warm, inviting aroma of spiced banana goodness, and you’ll have a stack of perfectly crisp, golden waffles ready to be drizzled with maple syrup.

These Fluffy Banana Spice Waffles are more than just breakfast—they’re a warm, cozy experience that brings comfort and joy to any table. So grab those bananas, fire up the waffle iron, and get ready for a deliciously easy homemade treat that will have everyone coming back for more!

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

Produce:

• Bananas

Dairy:

• Eggs
• Milk

Pantry Staples:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Vanilla extract

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Milk:  Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk – Any non-dairy milk will work just as well as regular milk.  Greek yogurt or buttermilk – Can be used for a tangier flavor and a slightly thicker batter.
• Sugar:  Coconut sugar – For a more natural, slightly caramelized sweetness.
• Flour:  Whole wheat flour – For a heartier, more nutritious waffle.

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Banana Waffles  Stir in some mini chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, sweet twist on your banana waffles. The chocolate pairs perfectly with the warm spices!

• Berry Banana Waffles  Add fresh or frozen berries like blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries into the batter for a fruity burst of flavor. You can also top with more berries for a fresh finish.

• Coconut Banana Waffles  Mix in some shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical vibe. You could even sprinkle some toasted coconut on top for added texture.

• Nutella Stuffed Banana Waffles  Spread a thin layer of Nutella on the batter before closing the waffle iron, then cook as usual. The Nutella will melt into a gooey, indulgent filling.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Use Overripe Bananas:  The riper the bananas, the better! Overripe bananas are naturally sweeter and more flavorful, making them perfect for these waffles. They’ll also mash more easily, which is key for smooth batter.

• Don't Overmix the Batter:  When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. A few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can result in dense waffles, so be gentle!

• Let the Batter Rest:  Allow the batter to rest for about 5-10 minutes before cooking. This gives the baking powder time to activate, resulting in fluffier waffles.

• Preheat Your Waffle Iron:  Make sure your waffle iron is fully preheated before adding the batter. This helps the waffles cook evenly and become crispy on the outside while staying fluffy inside.

• Lightly Grease the Waffle Iron:  Even if your waffle iron is non-stick, a light spray of cooking oil or a brush of melted butter helps to prevent sticking and gives the waffles a golden, crispy exterior.

• Don't Open the Waffle Iron Too Soon:  Wait until the waffles are fully cooked before opening the waffle iron. If you open it too soon, the waffles might tear or stick. Most waffle irons will indicate when they’re done.

• Make Extra for Freezing:  These waffles freeze really well! After cooking, let them cool completely and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster for a quick, crispy breakfast.

     Equipment you may need    

• Waffle Iron - The star of the show! A good waffle iron is essential to get that crispy golden outside and fluffy inside. Try this Waffle Iron for a larger family size.

• Mixing Bowls - You’ll need one large bowl to mix the wet ingredients (bananas, eggs, milk, vanilla) and another for the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, spices, etc.).

• Whisk - A whisk will help you mix the wet and dry ingredients smoothly. It’s especially useful for breaking up any lumps in the flour.

• Measuring Cups and Spoons - For precise measurements of all your ingredients—especially important when working with dry ingredients like flour, sugar, and spices.

• Spatula or Wooden Spoon - For gently folding the wet and dry ingredients together, without overmixing the batter.

• Non-Stick Cooking Spray  - To lightly grease the waffle iron before cooking the waffles. This ensures they don't stick and helps with crisping.

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Fluffy Banana Spice Waffles: Warm, Cozy & Perfectly Crisp!

8 waffles

2¼ cups (270 g) all purpose flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
1 cup mashed bananas about 2 large bananas
2 large eggs, room temperature
1¾ cup (420 ml) milk, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add the eggs whisking until smooth.  Add the milk and vanilla stirring until combined. Add in the flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt.  Stir until combined.  A few lumps are okay.  

Rest the batter at room temperature while preheating the waffle iron.  Once heated lightly oil the waffle iron using a non stick cooking spray.

Using a measuring cup, pour the banana batter onto the preheated waffle iron. Cook according to your waffle iron's instructions.  The waffles should be browned and crisp on the outside.  

Remove the cooked waffle and transfer to a baking sheet or serving plate.  Repeat until all the waffles are made.

Top the waffles with banana slices and a drizzle of maple syrup.