Bakery-Style Strawberry Almond Scones (Flaky & Buttery)

Bakery-style strawberry almond scones that are flaky, buttery, and perfect for Mother’s Day brunch. Easy to make with simple ingredients and fresh strawberries.

Bakery-Style Strawberry Almond Scones (Flaky & Buttery)

I love that a batch of freshly baked scones instantly makes a morning feel a little more special.

These strawberry almond scones have that bakery-style look and texture—tall, golden, and perfectly flaky—but they come together right in your own kitchen with simple ingredients.  This recipe builds on my go-to base scone method—the one I come back to again and again for that perfectly flaky, bakery-style texture.

They’re the kind of treat that feels just right for a slow weekend morning or a Mother’s Day brunch, where everything is meant to be a little softer, a little sweeter, and worth lingering over.  If you're planning on treating your mother or yourself give these scones a try.  They bring Spring flavor to you table and joy to your taste buds.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Sugar
• Salt
• Baking powder 
• Butter  - Make sure your butter is cold.  This is key for flaky layers. 
• Eggs
• Whole milk
• Vanilla extract
• Almond extract 
• Fresh strawberries - Dice them small and toss with flour—this keeps them from bleeding into the dough and helps distribute them evenly.
• Sliced almonds - for bakery style tops
• Coarse or sparkling sugar - for adding sweetness and a little crunch to the tops

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter or hands
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Biscuit cutter or knife

My Go-To Tools

• Pastry Cutter (or box grater) — makes working in butter easy
• Parchment Paper — prevents sticking and promotes even baking

-- Let’s Make It Together

Preheat your oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment. Toss the diced strawberries with a little flour and set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Add the grated cold butter and toss it into the flour until you still see small pieces throughout.  Gently fold in the strawberries.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, vanilla, and almond extract. Add to the dry ingredients and mix just until the dough comes together.

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently bring it together. Pat into a rectangle, fold it like a letter, then repeat once more to create layers. Pat to about 2 separate round circles about 1–1¼ inches thick.  Cut each circle into 6 wedges and place on the baking sheet.

Brush the tops with milk, then sprinkle with sliced almonds and coarse sugar. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until tall, golden, and set.

-- Perfecting the Cooking Process

The secret to tall, flaky scones is cold butter and minimal handling. Keep the butter cold and avoid overmixing to preserve those layers.  Grating the cold butter is an easy way to work the butter into the flour.  A little less messy but more action when you cut the butter into the flour is using small cubes of butter and a pastry cutter. 

-- Add Your Touch

You can easily make these your own depending on what you have on hand.

Swap in blueberries or raspberries, add a light glaze for extra sweetness, or skip the almonds if you prefer a more classic scone. They’re just as good warm with a little butter or served alongside your favorite jam.

Set the Mood

Part of the joy of cooking is creating a little moment around the meal. Here are a few simple ways to set the mood when serving this dish.

If you’re building a cozy brunch or just love bakery-style treats, here are a few more recipes to try next:

• Blueberry Almond Honey Muffins — soft, tender, and perfect for mornings
• Strawberry Almond Pancakes — light, fluffy, and full of fresh flavor
• Lemon Asparagus Pasta — a fresh, savory balance for your brunch table
• Master Scone Recipe - here is my base recipe that you can start from and in your own variations and make your favorite versions.

Save these scones for your next slow morning or special gathering—they’re simple to make but feel like something truly special.

Before You Start 

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but keep them frozen and dice small to prevent excess moisture.

Why are my scones not flaky?
The butter may have been too warm or the dough overmixed.

Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and refrigerate before baking.

Do I have to use almond extract?
No, but it adds a subtle bakery-style flavor.

How do I know when they’re done?
They should be golden on top and set in the center.

 

 

 

Blueberry Almond Honey Muffins (Soft, Moist & Bakery-Style)

 

Soft and moist blueberry almond honey muffins with a bakery-style dome. This small batch recipe is easy to make and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a simple sweet treat.

Blueberry Almond Honey Muffins (Soft, Moist & Bakery-Style)

These are the kind of muffins I make when I want something simple, a little cozy, and just sweet enough to feel like a treat without being over the top.

The combination of blueberries, almond, and honey is one I come back to again and again. It’s soft and lightly sweet, with just enough richness to make it feel special, but still easy enough for an everyday bake.

And because this is a small batch, it’s perfect for those moments when you want something fresh from the oven without committing to a full dozen.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt

• Egg
• Granulated sugar
• Honey - Adds a soft, natural sweetness and helps keep the muffins moist without being overly sugary.
• Canola oil
• Milk
• Greek yogurt - Gives the muffins a tender crumb and a slight richness while keeping them light.
• Vanilla and Almond extract - This combination creates a warm, bakery-style flavor that pairs perfectly with the blueberries.

Add-Ins

• Blueberries - Fresh or frozen both work well—just toss them in a little flour to help prevent sinking.
• Sliced almonds - just a small amount gives texture and almond flavor to the muffins.

Topping

• Sliced almonds - creates visually pretty tops and adds texture.
• Sanding sugar (optional)  - A light sprinkle on top gives the muffins a subtle crunch and that classic bakery-style finish.

Equipment

You don’t need anything fancy for these muffins—just a few basic kitchen tools:

• Muffin tin (6 or 12 cup)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

My Go-To Tools

• 6 cup Muffin Tin — Tip: you want a light pan so the muffins don't brown too much.  
• 12 cup Muffin Tin - Tip:  this will give you really tall muffins by using every other well so they don't touch each other.
• Rubber Spatula — makes folding the batter easy without overmixing

-- Let’s Make It Together

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line or grease 6 muffin wells.

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, sugar, and honey until smooth. Add the oil, milk, yogurt, vanilla, and almond extract and whisk until combined.

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet just until no dry streaks remain. The batter will be thick—avoid overmixing.

Toss the blueberries with a teaspoon of flour, then fold them into the batter along with the sliced almonds.

Divide the batter evenly between the muffin cups, filling nearly to the top. Sprinkle with almonds and a light dusting of sugar.

Bake at 400°F for 5 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 375°F and bake for another 12–14 minutes, until tall and golden.

Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack. Drizzle with a little warm honey if desired.

-- Perfecting the Cooking Process

Starting the muffins at a higher temperature gives them that tall, bakery-style dome. The quick burst of heat helps the batter rise fast before the structure sets—don’t skip this step.  One other important tips is to not overmix the batter.  Overmixing results in tough muffins, and no one wants those!  Mix just until all the flours is incorporated.

-- Add Your Touch

These muffins are easy to customize depending on what you have on hand.

You can swap the blueberries for raspberries or chopped strawberries, add a little lemon zest for brightness, or sprinkle a few extra almonds on top for more crunch. A light drizzle of honey or a simple glaze also works if you want to dress them up a bit.

Set the Mood

Food is about more than just the recipe—it’s about the moment around the table. Here are a few simple ideas to set the mood when you serve this dish.

If you loved these soft and simple muffins, here are a few more recipes from the kitchen to try next:

• Almond Poppyseed Muffins with Cranberry Cherry Swirl
• Tropical Strawberry Coconut Muffins
• Banana Bliss Coffee Cake Muffins

Save this one for when you want something quick, cozy, and just a little special.

Before You Start (FAQs)

Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes—use them straight from frozen and toss with flour before adding to the batter.

Why is my batter so thick?
That’s exactly what you want. A thicker batter helps create tall, bakery-style muffins.

Can I make this into 12 muffins?
You can, but they’ll be smaller and won’t have the same tall dome.

Can I substitute the oil?
Yes, melted butter or a neutral oil both work well.

How should I store these?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

 

 

 

Lemon Asparagus Orecchiette (Fresh, Easy Spring Pasta)

A fresh and easy lemon asparagus orecchiette pasta made with garlic, Parmesan, and a light, silky sauce. Perfect for spring dinners and ready in about 30 minutes. 

Lemon Asparagus Orecchiette (Fresh, Easy Spring Pasta)

This is the kind of dinner I find myself making on those early spring evenings when I want something fresh, but still comforting. The kind of meal that comes together easily, doesn’t require much planning, and somehow feels a little special anyway.

Asparagus always feels like a signal that the season is shifting, and this simple lemony pasta is one of my favorite ways to use it while it’s at its best. The sauce is light but still silky, the garlic and Parmesan bring just enough richness, and the lemon keeps everything bright and balanced.

It’s simple, it’s fresh, and it’s the kind of recipe that quietly becomes part of your regular rotation.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

Just a few simple ingredients and you'll have a wonderful Spring meal.  

• 1 lb asparagus
• Orecchiette pasta
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves
• 1lemon - fresh is best, we'll use the zest and the juice
• Parmesan cheese - for the sauce you'll want finely grated cheese
• butter
• Salt & black pepper

-- Let’s Make It Together

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water.

Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus and sauté for 4–6 minutes, until crisp-tender and bright green. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.

Lower the heat to medium and stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, butter, and about 1/4 cup of the pasta water. Let it come together into a light sauce.

Add the drained pasta and Parmesan cheese. Toss well, adding more pasta water as needed, until the sauce is glossy and lightly coats the pasta.

Finish with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust with more lemon if needed.

-- Perfecting the Cooking Process

The key to this pasta is the emulsified sauce—that silky, lightly creamy texture comes from combining the pasta water, butter, cheese, and oil while tossing continuously. Don’t rush this step. A little movement and a splash of pasta water make all the difference.

-- Add Your Touch

This pasta is a great base for simple variations.

You can add grilled chicken or shrimp if you want to make it a little heartier, or toss in a handful of spinach at the end for extra greens. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a little heat, and toasted breadcrumbs on top bring a nice bit of crunch.

It’s also easy to adjust the lemon—keep it subtle or make it a little more pronounced depending on what you’re in the mood for.

Set the Mood

Food is about more than just the recipe—it’s about the moment around the table. Here are a few simple ideas to set the mood when you serve this dish.

If you loved this fresh and simple pasta, here are a few more easy, flavor-packed recipes from the kitchen to try next:

• Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers with Lemon-Dill Yogurt & Salad  — light, flavorful, and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
• Blackberry Lemon Poppyseed Muffins — a small batch bake that's bursting with berries and sunshine.
• Marinated Cherry Tomatoes & Angel Hair Pasta — fresh & vibrant, perfect for summer nights.

Save this one for asparagus season—it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Before You Start (FAQs)

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes—small shapes like shells or farfalle work well and hold the sauce nicely.

Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but leftovers can be reheated gently with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

How do I know when the sauce is right?
It should look glossy and lightly creamy, not dry or watery. Add pasta water a little at a time until it comes together.

Can I make this without butter?
Yes, but the butter adds richness and helps create that silky texture.

How much lemon should I use?
Start with less and add more to taste—you can always brighten it up at the end.

 

 

 

Strawberry Almond Pancakes (Light, Fluffy & Perfect for Spring)

Fresh strawberry almond pancakes made with almond milk and a hint of vanilla. Light, fluffy, and perfect for a cozy spring breakfast or brunch.

Strawberry Almond Pancakes (Light, Fluffy & Perfect for Spring)

There’s something about bringing a little piece of a trip home with you—especially when it comes from a place as cozy and memorable as the Salish Lodge & Spa.  They are a beautiful lodge (previously named Snoqualmie Falls Lodge) located outside of Seattle, WA at the top of Snoqualmie Falls.

On a recent trip, I picked up their Old Fashioned Pancake & Waffle Mix and I knew exactly what I wanted to make first—something simple, comforting, and perfect for spring mornings.

These Strawberry Almond Pancakes are perfect for Spring. Light and fluffy, made with almond milk, and filled with fresh strawberries, they feel just a little bit special without being complicated.

It’s the kind of breakfast that feels a little special… without much effort.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

The Base

• Pancake mix - I used a lodge-style pancake mix here, but any good-quality mix—or even your favorite homemade version—will work beautifully.
• Unsweetened Almond milk - keeps things light but still rich
• Egg + melted butter - (structure + flavor)

Flavor Boosters

• Vanilla extract -  warm, classic flavor
• Almond extract -  just enough to pull in that almond flavor

The Star

• Fresh strawberries - tossed lightly with a little mix to prevent sinking

Ingredient Spotlight

If you want to recreate the exact flavor and texture I used, you can try the pancake mix from Snoqualmie Falls Lodge—it has that classic, slightly nostalgic pancake feel that works perfectly here.

-- Let's Make it Together 

1. In a bowl, whisk together:
   • Almond milk
   • Egg
   • Melted butter
   • Vanilla + almond extract
2. Add pancake mix and stir gently.
   (A few lumps are perfect—don’t overmix.)
3. Let batter rest for 5 minutes.
4. Toss strawberries with 1 teaspoon pancake mix, then gently fold into batter.
5. Heat a greased skillet over medium heat.
6. Scoop 1/4 cup batter per pancake.
7. Cook until bubbles form across the surface, then flip and cook until golden.

-- Add Your Touch

• Top with sliced almonds for crunch
• Add extra strawberries on top
• Drizzle with warm maple syrup
• Dust lightly with powdered sugar

Set the Mood

Meals taste even better when the table feels inviting. Here are a few simple ways to set the mood for this recipe.

I hope you enjoyed this recipe.  I look forward to cooking with berries every year and this recipe is light and delicious.  

If you’re leaning into those cozy, seasonal flavors, there are plenty more ways to bring them into your kitchen. From fruit-filled breakfasts to easy desserts and weekend bakes, it’s the perfect time of year to keep things fresh, light, and full of flavor.

More Recipes to Try Next:

• Easy Strawberry Crisp
• Dutch Baby Pancake with Roasted Berries
• Blueberry Smash Muffins
• Blueberry & Strawberry Cornmeal Pancakes
• Berry Almond Smoothie Bowl

Before You Start

Can I use a different pancake mix?
Yes! Any good-quality pancake mix will work here. This recipe is flexible and designed to work with what you have.

Can I make these from scratch instead of using a mix?
Absolutely. If you have a favorite homemade pancake batter, you can use that as your base and follow the same method.

Why toss the strawberries in pancake mix first?
This helps keep them from sinking to the bottom and distributes them more evenly throughout the pancakes.

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh is best for texture, but if using frozen: thaw first, pat dry well, and dice smaller to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best made fresh, but you can mix the wet ingredients ahead and combine with the dry just before cooking.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or toaster for the best texture.

Can I freeze these pancakes?
Yes! Let them cool completely, then freeze in layers. Reheat in a toaster or oven until warmed through.