Arctic Cloudberry Scones

Introduction to Arctic Cloudberry Scones

The Arctic Cloudberry Scone is a delightful treat hailing from the northern regions, often associated with Scandinavian cuisine. The cloudberry, known scientifically as Rubus chamaemorus, thrives in the cool climates of Alpine and Arctic tundra, making it a treasured berry in places like Norway, Sweden, and Finland. Traditionally, these berries have been used in various culinary applications due to their unique tartness and bright orange hue. They are often celebrated during harvest festivals and are a sign of cultural heritage in many Northern European communities.

Ingredients

• Flour - 2 cups
• Baking Powder - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Butter - 1/2 cup (cold, cubed)
• Sugar - 1/4 cup
• Milk - 1/2 cup
• Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon
• Cloudberries - 1 cup (fresh or preserved)
• Egg - 1 (for egg wash)

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that all dry components are evenly distributed, creating a uniform texture in your scones.

Step 2: Incorporate the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter into the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, gently work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The presence of small butter pieces is essential for creating flaky layers in the finished scones.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the milk and vanilla extract. Gradually mix the liquid into the dry ingredients, folding the mixture until a dough begins to form. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense scones.

Step 4: Incorporate the Cloudberries

Gently fold the cloudberries into the dough. If using preserved berries, drain any excess liquid to prevent the scones from becoming too runny. The berries should be evenly distributed throughout the dough to ensure each scone captures the subtle tartness of the cloudberries.

Step 5: Shape and Prepare for Baking

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 3/4-inch thick round shape. Using a biscuit cutter or a sharp knife, cut the dough into wedges or rounds. Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving at least an inch of space between each piece to allow for even baking.

Step 6: Apply the Egg Wash

In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush it over the top of each scone. This will give your scones a beautiful golden-brown finish once baked.

Step 7: Bake the Scones

Place the scones in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. For perfect timing, use a timer to ensure your scones do not overbake, as this can dry them out.

Serving and Enjoyment

Let the scones cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. These scones are best enjoyed fresh, ideally within the day they are made. They pair wonderfully with clotted cream and a cup of tea. The tartness of the cloudberries complements the richness of the cream, offering a delightful balance of flavors.

Additional Tips

• For a sweeter scone, consider adding a glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
• Fresh cloudberries are seasonal and can be hard to find; if unavailable, consider using high-quality cloudberry preserves, which can be found in specialty stores.
• Store leftover scones in an airtight container and lightly warm them in the oven before serving.