Highland Citrus Scones
Introduction
The Highland Citrus Scones are a delightful twist on the traditional scones, infused with a burst of citrus flavors. These scones are perfect for an afternoon tea, bringing a refreshing zest to your palate. Originating from the Scottish Highlands, scones have a rich history dating back to the early 16th century. The addition of citrus to this classic recipe adds a modern twist, making them both unique and irresistible.
Ingredients
- Flour - 2 cups
- Sugar - 1/4 cup
- Baking Powder - 1 tablespoon
- Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
- Butter (cold, diced) - 1/2 cup
- Zest of one lemon
- Zest of one orange
- Egg - 1 large
- Milk - 1/2 cup
- Lemon Juice - 1 tablespoon
- Orange Juice - 1 tablespoon
- Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon
Preparation
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and preparing a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. These steps ensure even cooking and easy removal of the scones. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This forms the base dry mixture for your scones.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
Add the cold, diced butter to the dry ingredients, using your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The coldness of the butter is crucial as it helps create flaky layers in the scones.
Infusing Citrus Flavors
Add the zest of one lemon and zest of one orange to the mixture. The zest provides a concentrated citrus flavor that will permeate the dough, offering a fresh and tangy taste.
Forming the Dough
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, lemon juice, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently mix until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix to avoid tough scones.
Shaping the Scones
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together. Pat the dough into a disc about 1-inch thick. Use a sharp knife to cut the disc into 8 even wedges.
Baking
Place the wedges onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each scone. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown. You can use a cooking timer to track the time precisely. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Highland Citrus Scones warm, with clotted cream and orange marmalade. They pair beautifully with a cup of Earl Grey tea or freshly brewed coffee. For an added touch, garnish with a thin slice of lemon or orange.
Enjoying Your Scones
Highland Citrus Scones are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, where you can fully appreciate their flaky texture and bright, citrusy flavor. Perfect for an afternoon tea gathering or a cozy morning breakfast, these scones are sure to delight anyone who tastes them.
By incorporating these steps into your baking, you'll have a perfect batch of scones, ideal for sharing with family and friends.