If you’re looking for a quick and delicious way to brighten up your day, these lemon scones are the perfect treat! Fluffy and light with a tangy lemon flavor, they’re an ideal breakfast or afternoon snack. In just 35 minutes, you can enjoy a batch of freshly baked scones, with minimal ingredients and effort. Whether you’re pairing them with tea or enjoying them on their own, these scones are sure to put a smile on your face.
Why You’ll Love These Lemon Scones
These lemon scones are the perfect balance of light, flaky texture and refreshing citrus flavor. They’re quick and easy to make, ready in under 35 minutes, making them perfect for a busy morning or a spontaneous treat. The combination of lemon zest and juice adds a bright, tangy kick, while the flaky texture will have you coming back for more. Plus, they’re vegetarian, so they can be enjoyed by a wide range of dietary preferences. Add a drizzle of lemon glaze on top, and you’ve got a dessert that’s both delicious and delightful!
Ingredients
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/4 cup sugar
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
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1/2 cup milk
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Zest of 1 lemon
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
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Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture is crumbly.
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Stir in the milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice until just combined.
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Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it for about 1-2 minutes until it comes together.
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Shape the dough into a circle, about 1 inch thick, and cut it into 8 wedges.
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Place the wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
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Let the scones cool on a wire rack before serving.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 8 scones
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
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Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
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Lemon Glaze: For extra sweetness, drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the scones. Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled scones.
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Add-ins: Try adding poppy seeds, dried cranberries, or even white chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
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Vegan Option: Swap the butter for dairy-free margarine and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk for a vegan version.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The scones are best enjoyed fresh but will still taste great for a couple of days.
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Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked scones. Place the cut scones on a baking sheet, freeze them until firm, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
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Reheating: Reheat the scones in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a slightly denser, nuttier flavor, but the texture may be a little different. You might need to add a bit more liquid if the dough feels too dry.
Can I make these scones ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to let the dough sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaping and baking.
Can I make these scones gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use a flour blend that includes xanthan gum to help with texture.
How do I get the scones to be extra flaky?
The key to flaky scones is to not overwork the dough. Handle it gently and make sure to use cold butter, as it helps create those desirable flaky layers.
Can I freeze these lemon scones?
Yes, you can freeze the scones either before or after baking. For unbaked scones, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
These Lemon Scones are an easy and quick way to bring a little sunshine to your day. Light, fluffy, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a delightful dessert, these scones are sure to be a hit. With minimal ingredients and effort, you’ll have a batch of delicious scones ready in just 35 minutes. Enjoy the simple pleasures of homemade scones today!
Print
Lemon Scones That Brighten Your Day in 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Lemon Scones are the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, making them an ideal treat to brighten your day. Light, fluffy, and packed with fresh lemon flavor, these scones are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful snack.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
1/2 cup milk
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add cold butter to the dry ingredients and mix until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Stir in milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice until the dough comes together.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently to bring it together.
Shape the dough into a circle and cut it into wedges.
Place the wedges on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Let the scones cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Adjust the sugar to suit your sweetness preference.
For extra flavor and a glossy finish, drizzle a lemon glaze over the scones once they’ve cooled.
These scones can be served with clotted cream or jam for a classic touch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
