Strawberry Lavender Scones
Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Treats
I love baking scones, and these Strawberry Lavender Scones have quickly become a favorite in our household. The combination of fresh strawberries and aromatic lavender creates a delightful flavor that’s both invigorating and comforting. I make them for breakfast or an afternoon treat, and they always impress with their tender crumb and gorgeous color. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweet and floral, and the aroma fills the kitchen beautifully. I can't wait for you to try this recipe!
When I first experimented with scones, I had no idea how amazing the addition of fresh strawberries and lavender would be. The subtle floral notes from the lavender complemented the juicy brightness of the strawberries perfectly. I learned that it's essential to use culinary-grade lavender for the best flavor, and not to overmix the dough for a flaky texture.
One tip I swear by is chilling the scone dough for about 15 minutes before cutting them out; this helps the scones rise beautifully in the oven. Trust me, this quick step makes a big difference in the final texture!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly balanced flavors of sweet strawberries and fragrant lavender.
- Tender and flaky texture, ideal for breakfast or brunch.
- A stunning addition to any tea party or gathering with friends.
The Magic of Lavender
Culinary lavender brings a unique flavor to these scones, elevating them from ordinary to extraordinary. The key is using culinary-grade lavender, which is different from ornamental varieties. If you're unsure, look for lavender specifically labeled as 'culinary' to ensure it's safe and flavorful. A small amount goes a long way, so only use the recommended teaspoon to avoid an overpowering taste. I recommend crushing the lavender slightly before adding it to fully release its aromatic oils, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Lavender also has natural soothing properties, making these scones a perfect treat for a relaxing breakfast or afternoon tea. If you're experimenting with lavender for the first time, you might want to start with half the recommended amount. This way, you can adjust to your preference and gauge how the floral notes play with the sweetness of the strawberries.
Strawberry Selection and Preparation
The quality of the strawberries you use directly impacts the final taste of your scones. Opt for ripe, in-season strawberries for the best sweetness and juiciness. When preparing strawberries, hull them carefully using a paring knife to remove the green tops without losing too much fruit. Chop them into small pieces, about a quarter-inch in size, to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough, providing delightful bursts of flavor in each bite.
If fresh strawberries are not available, you can substitute with frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before chopping to prevent the dough from becoming too wet. Note that frozen strawberries may not provide the same textural contrast as fresh ones, but they'll still deliver great taste.
Ingredients
Scone Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon culinary lavender
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
Mix these ingredients with care for the best results!
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the lavender and chopped strawberries.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and egg. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Shape and Cut
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter to form rounds.
Bake
Place the scones on a lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Allow the scones to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
Serve with clotted cream or a drizzle of honey for a special touch!
Pro Tips
- For a better flavor, feel free to experiment with different berries or infuse the cream with additional herbs.
Make-Ahead and Storage
These Strawberry Lavender Scones can be prepared in advance, making them an ideal option for busy mornings or special occasions. After shaping the scones, you can freeze them before baking. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. When you're ready to bake, simply add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking directly from the freezer.
If you have any leftover scones, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, but it's best to enjoy them fresh. When reheating, a quick 5-10 minute warm-up in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) will restore their tender, flaky texture.
Serving Suggestions
For a delightful breakfast or brunch experience, serve the scones with a light spread of butter or clotted cream. I also love adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. Pairing the scones with a fruity jam, such as strawberry or raspberry, can further enhance the flavor, complementing the lavender notes beautifully. Consider serving them alongside a pot of your favorite tea for an elegant touch.
These scones also shine at gatherings. Display them on a tiered cake stand for a charming tea party centerpiece. Enhance the setup with fresh strawberries and sprigs of lavender to create a visually appealing presentation. This not only bursts with flavor but also adds a lovely aromatic element to your gathering, captivating your guests with both taste and fragrance.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
→ What’s the best way to store leftover scones?
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
→ Can I omit the lavender?
Absolutely! If you're not a fan of lavender, feel free to leave it out or substitute with another herb like rosemary for a different flavor.
→ How do I make these scones gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture.
Strawberry Lavender Scones
Created by: The Chefkennethcooks Team
Recipe Type: Sweet Baking Treats
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 scones
What You'll Need
Scone Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon culinary lavender
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
How-To Steps
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the lavender and chopped strawberries.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and egg. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter to form rounds.
Place the scones on a lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow the scones to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
Extra Tips
- For a better flavor, feel free to experiment with different berries or infuse the cream with additional herbs.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 4g