Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite holiday treat: Christmas scones! These delightful little baked goods are like a warm hug on a chilly winter morning. The combination of dried cranberries and crunchy pecans fills the kitchen with such a festive aroma that I can’t help but smile. I remember baking these with my grandmother every year, and the joy of pulling them out of the oven, golden and flaky, still warms my heart. Trust me, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings or simply enjoyed with a cup of tea while you’re cozied up by the fire. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how they embody the spirit of the season!
Ingredients for Christmas Scones
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
Gathering these ingredients is half the fun! Just make sure your butter is cold—this is the secret to those flaky layers we all love. The dried cranberries and pecans add that perfect holiday crunch and sweetness, making every bite feel like a celebration. Trust me, once you have these goodies lined up, you’ll be ready to create some magic in your kitchen!
How to Prepare Christmas Scones
- First things first—preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your scones bake up nice and golden, just the way we love them!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Give it a good stir to mix everything together evenly.
- Now, it’s time to add the star of the show: the cold, cubed butter! Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. It’s okay if there are little chunks of butter; they’ll create those lovely flaky layers we adore!
- Next, fold in the dried cranberries and chopped pecans. This is where the magic happens—these little gems bring in that festive flavor!
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until well combined. You’ll want this liquid gold to be ready for the dry mixture.
- Pour the milk mixture into your dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want the scones to be tender and light!
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times—just enough to bring it together. You don’t want to over-knead, or your scones might end up tough. Oops!
- Shape the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick, then cut it into wedges (like a pizza!). You can also use a biscuit cutter if you want round scones—totally up to you!
- Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each one. Pop them in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly!
- Once they’re done, let them cool for just a few minutes before serving. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
And there you have it! Your kitchen is about to smell like a holiday dream, and you’ll be enjoying these delicious Christmas scones in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to whip up, perfect for busy holiday mornings!
- Fluffy and flavorful with the delightful combo of cranberries and pecans.
- Ideal for sharing at holiday gatherings or cozy family breakfasts.
- Versatile—enjoy them plain, or slather with jam or cream for an extra treat!
- They bake up in just 15-20 minutes, so you won’t be waiting long to enjoy them.
- These scones make your kitchen smell like Christmas, filling the air with warmth and cheer.
Tips for Success with Christmas Scones
Alright, let’s make sure your Christmas scones turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my tried-and-true tips that will help you achieve scone success every time:
- Use cold butter: This is key! Cold butter creates those flaky layers we all love. You can even pop it in the freezer for a few minutes before cubing it to ensure it stays nice and firm.
- Don’t overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to tough scones, and we definitely want them to be light and fluffy!
- Knead gently: When you turn the dough out onto the floured surface, knead it just enough to bring it together. A few gentle folds are all you need—no need to put in a workout!
- Watch your baking time: Keep an eye on your scones as they bake. They’re done when they’re golden brown on top. Every oven is a little different, so don’t hesitate to check a couple of minutes early!
- Let them cool slightly: After baking, allow your scones to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps them set up nicely and enhances the flavor.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking up the most delightful Christmas scones that family and friends will rave about! Enjoy the process and happy baking!
Variations on Christmas Scones
Now, while my Christmas scones are absolutely delightful as is, I just love how versatile they can be! Here are some fun variations to shake things up and add your personal touch:
- Mixed Dried Fruits: Swap out the cranberries for a mix of dried fruits like chopped apricots, raisins, or even dried cherries. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor and adds a lovely pop of color!
- Nutty Delights: If you’re not a fan of pecans, try using walnuts or even slivered almonds. They add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the scones.
- Spice It Up: Want a little extra warmth? Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the dry ingredients for a cozy spice twist. It’ll make your scones even more festive!
- Chocolate Chip Scones: Who could resist chocolate? Toss in some dark chocolate chips for a decadent treat that’s perfect for the holidays. Yum!
- Orange Zest: For a refreshing citrus zing, add a teaspoon of grated orange zest. It brightens up the flavor and complements the dried fruits wonderfully!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences! The beauty of baking is that you can make it your own, so let your creativity shine through these delicious Christmas scones!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious Christmas scones fresh for as long as possible! If you happen to have any leftovers (though I can’t guarantee that!), here’s how to store them:
- Storing: Place your cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can pop them in the fridge for up to a week!
- Freezing: To extend their shelf life even further, freeze your scones! Just wrap each one in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating is super simple, too! For that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste, you can:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the scones on a baking sheet. Warm them for about 10 minutes or until they’re heated through.
- Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, you can pop a scone in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Just be careful not to overdo it, or you’ll end up with a chewy scone instead of a fluffy one!
With these tips, you can enjoy your Christmas scones fresh and warm, even days after baking. Happy indulging!
Nutritional Information for Christmas Scones
When it comes to enjoying my Christmas scones, knowing the nutritional breakdown can help you indulge a little more mindfully! Here’s a quick glance at the typical nutritional values per serving (that’s one scone, by the way):
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 3g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But knowing this little bit of information can make every bite feel even more satisfying. Enjoy your scones guilt-free, and revel in the joy of the holiday season!
FAQ About Christmas Scones
Got questions about these delightful Christmas scones? No worries! Here are some common queries I’ve come across, along with answers to help you navigate your baking journey:
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour will give your scones a heartier texture and a nutty flavor. Just keep in mind that you might need to add a little extra liquid since whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.
What if I don’t have dried cranberries?
No problem at all! You can substitute them with any dried fruit you have on hand, like raisins, chopped apricots, or even cherries. Each option will give your scones a unique twist!
How do I know when my scones are baked perfectly?
Your scones are ready when they’re golden brown on top and have a slight firmness when you gently press them. If they’re still soft and doughy in the center, give them a few more minutes in the oven.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the dough and shape it into a circle, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Just remember to bake them fresh when you’re ready for that warm, out-of-the-oven experience!
What’s the best way to serve Christmas scones?
Oh, the possibilities! Serve them warm with a slather of butter, jam, or cream for a delightful treat. You can also pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for the perfect cozy afternoon pick-me-up!
Print
Christmas Scones: 7 Irresistible Ways to Celebrate Joyfully
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 scones 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Christmas scones perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add cold butter and mix until crumbly.
- Stir in cranberries and pecans.
- In another bowl, whisk milk and egg.
- Add milk mixture to dry ingredients and combine.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead gently.
- Shape into a circle and cut into wedges.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm with jam or cream.
- Store in an airtight container.
- Best enjoyed fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Baked Goods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Christmas scones, holiday baking, festive treats