There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked scones filling the kitchen, don’t you think? I remember the first time I tried making Maple Walnut Scones; it was a chilly Sunday morning, and I craved something warm and comforting. The sweet, rich scent of maple syrup combined with the nutty crunch of walnuts had me hooked instantly. Each bite is like a warm hug, perfect for pairing with a cup of tea or coffee. I love that they’re not just delicious, but they’re so easy to whip up! Seriously, once you try this unique flavor combination, you’ll be dreaming about these scones long after they’re gone. Trust me, your mornings will never be the same!
Ingredients for Maple Walnut Scones
Gather these simple ingredients to bring the warm, comforting flavors of Maple Walnut Scones to life. Each item plays an essential role in creating that perfect texture and taste.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – This is the foundation of our scones, giving them the right structure.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts – These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with maple.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup – This sweetener infuses our scones with that iconic maple flavor.
- 1/2 cup cold butter – Make sure it’s cold! This helps create those flaky layers we all love.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – This is our secret weapon for achieving that perfect rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Just a touch to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – This adds richness and moisture, making our scones incredibly tender.
- 1 egg – This binds everything together and adds a bit of richness.
Don’t worry if you don’t have everything on hand; I’ll share some fun alternatives later on! Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Maple Walnut Scones
Alright, let’s dive into the wonderful world of making Maple Walnut Scones! Trust me, this is going to be a delightful experience, and I promise you’ll love every step. Just follow these easy instructions, and you’ll have a batch of warm, flaky scones in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Mix Dry Ingredients
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is super important because we want those scones to bake perfectly! While that’s warming up, grab a large mixing bowl and combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix them together thoroughly—it helps create a nice, even texture in your scones!
Incorporate Butter and Walnuts
Now, take 1/2 cup of cold butter and cut it into small pieces. Add it to your dry mix, and using your fingers (or a pastry cutter if you have one), mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. This is where the magic happens, so don’t rush! Once it’s crumbly, stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts to bring in that delightful crunch.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
In another bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of maple syrup, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, and 1 egg until smooth. Then, pour this wet mixture into your dry ingredients. Gently combine everything until just mixed—be careful not to overwork the dough! It should be a bit sticky but not too wet.
Shape and Bake
Next, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a circle about 1-inch thick, and then cut it into wedges (like a pizza!). Place those lovely wedges onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly! Let them cool slightly before serving, and enjoy the bliss!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Maple Walnut Scones turn out absolutely perfect, I’ve got a few handy tips for you! First off, using cold butter is crucial. It helps create those flaky layers we all love, so don’t skip this step! Just take it straight from the fridge and cut it into small pieces before mixing it in. Also, be gentle when combining the wet and dry ingredients—don’t overmix the dough. You want just enough mixing to bring everything together without overworking it, which can lead to dense scones. Lastly, if you can, bake them fresh and enjoy them warm! That’s when they’re at their absolute best, with a deliciously soft texture and that irresistible maple flavor shining through. Happy baking!
Variations for Maple Walnut Scones
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to customize these Maple Walnut Scones to make them your own! One of my favorite swaps is to substitute chopped walnuts with pecans—they add a lovely buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with maple. You could also sprinkle in some chocolate chips for a sweet twist; just imagine that melty goodness with each bite! Another fun idea is to add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor. If you’re looking for a fruity touch, try folding in some dried cranberries or blueberries before baking. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make these scones uniquely yours!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your Maple Walnut Scones fresh out of the oven, let’s talk about the best ways to enjoy them! These delightful scones are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon tea. I love serving them alongside a steaming cup of English breakfast tea or a rich, aromatic coffee. The warmth of the drink really complements the sweetness of the maple and the nutty flavor of the walnuts.
If you’re feeling indulgent, spread a little butter or clotted cream on top before digging in—trust me, it takes them to a whole new level! For a touch of freshness, you could also serve them with a side of fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or a handful of blueberries. They’re versatile enough to pair with a variety of snacks, so feel free to get creative and enjoy them however you like!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your Maple Walnut Scones fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can pop them in the fridge, but I recommend enjoying them fresh for the best texture and flavor! When you’re ready to indulge again, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This warms them up beautifully and revives that lovely flaky texture! Trust me, there’s nothing like a warm scone to brighten your day!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk numbers! These Maple Walnut Scones are not only delicious but also provide some nutritional value. Each scone is approximately 220 calories, which is a lovely treat for breakfast or tea time. You’ll find about 12g of fat, including 7g of saturated fat, along with 3g of protein and 25g of carbohydrates. They also contain 5g of sugar and 1g of fiber. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredients used. Enjoy them in moderation as a delightful addition to your day!
FAQ About Maple Walnut Scones
Got questions about making these scrumptious Maple Walnut Scones? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear:
Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely! If walnuts aren’t your thing, feel free to swap them out for pecans or even almonds. Each nut brings its own unique flavor and crunch!
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No problem! You can substitute milk or a mixture of yogurt and milk in a pinch. It might change the texture a bit, but they’ll still taste great!
How can I tell when the scones are done baking?
Look for a golden brown top and a firm texture. If you gently press the center, it should bounce back slightly. Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing when they’re ready!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaping and cutting.
What’s the best way to serve them?
I love serving these scones warm, straight from the oven, with a pat of butter or a dollop of clotted cream. They’re also fantastic with a side of fresh fruit or a steaming cup of tea!
Hope this helps you on your scone-making journey! Happy baking!
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Maple Walnut Scones: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious maple walnut scones perfect for breakfast or tea time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup cold butter
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add cold butter and mix until crumbly.
- Stir in chopped walnuts.
- In another bowl, whisk maple syrup, cream, and egg.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Shape dough into a circle and cut into wedges.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- Best served fresh.
- Can substitute walnuts with pecans.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Baked Goods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Maple Walnut Scones