Are you a fan of scones but looking to elevate your baking game with a secret ingredient? Look no further than this exclusive cinnamon scone recipe that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. With a touch of warmth and a hint of spice, these scones are perfect for cozy mornings, afternoon tea, or any time you crave a sweet treat. Let’s dive into the world of cinnamon scones and discover the magic of this secret ingredient!
The Magic of Cinnamon in Baking
Cinnamon is a versatile spice that adds depth and warmth to sweet and savory dishes alike. In baking, cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile of a recipe, bringing out the sweetness of ingredients like sugar and fruits. Its aromatic qualities can also evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia, making it a popular choice for baked goods.
When used in scones, cinnamon can transform a simple pastry into a fragrant delicacy that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer your scones plain or with added mix-ins like raisins or nuts, cinnamon can take your recipe to the next level.
The Secret Ingredient: Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
One of the key components of this cinnamon scone recipe is the cinnamon sugar mixture that is incorporated into the dough. This mixture consists of ground cinnamon and sugar, blended together to create a sweet and fragrant topping for the scones.
To make the cinnamon sugar mixture, simply combine 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar in a small bowl. Mix well until the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the sugar. This mixture will be used to sprinkle on top of the scones before baking, adding a delicious layer of flavor and a hint of sweetness.
Cinnamon Scone Recipe
Now, let’s delve into the cinnamon scone recipe that will have your kitchen smelling like a cozy bakeshop in no time. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the perfect batch of cinnamon scones that are sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Cinnamon sugar mixture (for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to combine.
- Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until the dough comes together.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently a few times until it is smooth.
- Pat the dough into a circle that is about 1 inch thick. Cut the dough into 8 wedges.
- Place the scones onto the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Bake the scones for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
- Remove the scones from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your freshly baked cinnamon scones with a hot cup of tea or coffee for the ultimate indulgent treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I freeze cinnamon scones?
Yes, you can freeze baked cinnamon scones for up to three months. Simply allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container before freezing. When ready to enjoy, thaw the scones at room temperature or reheat them in the oven.
2. Can I use whole wheat flour in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all or part of the all-purpose flour in this recipe. Keep in mind that using whole wheat flour may result in a slightly denser texture in the scones.
3. How do I store cinnamon scones?
To store leftover cinnamon scones, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you plan to keep them longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
4. Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the scone dough?
Yes, you can customize this recipe by adding chopped nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips to the dough before shaping and baking the scones. Be sure to adjust the measurements accordingly to accommodate the additional mix-ins.
5. What is the best way to serve cinnamon scones?
Cinnamon scones are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a drizzle of glaze, a dollop of whipped cream, or a side of jam or preserves for extra sweetness. Pair them with your favorite hot or cold beverage for a delightful snack or breakfast.
Now that you have the inside scoop on this cinnamon scone recipe and the magic of its secret ingredient, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start baking. With a warm oven and a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of scones that will impress even the most discerning palates. Happy baking!
