Lemon Scones: The Perfect Citrusy & Buttery Treat
Scones hold a special place in every cook’s heart. They are a classic for the perfect teatime or breakfast treat. Today, we will be diving into the world of Lemon Scones, giving you not just a delightful recipe, but also a background on its history and cultural importance. So, put on your chef’s hat and prepare to indulge in buttery, lemony goodness!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, plus extra for brushing
- 1 large egg
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar, for glaze
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, for glaze
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry cutter, two knives, or your hands to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and mix with a spatula until you have a soft dough.
- Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured surface and form it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife to cut the circle into 8 equal wedges.
- Transfer the scones to your prepared baking sheet, spacing them out evenly. Brush the tops with a small amount of heavy cream to help them achieve a golden-brown color.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the scones are golden-brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
- Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to create a glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled scones and enjoy!
History and Curiosities
Lemon scones owe their existence to the great British tradition of afternoon tea. Afternoon tea was first introduced by Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, in the 1840s. She would order a tray of tea and small sandwiches, and eventually, pastries like scones became part of the tradition.
Scones have come to be known as the quintessential British teatime treat. Some even theorize that the name “scone” derives from the Scottish Gaelic word “sgonn,” which refers to a type of bread.
What truly sets the lemon scone apart is, of course, its delicious citrusy flavor. Lemons have long been associated with freshness and health, and their integration into the scones adds an unexpected brightness to each bite.
Curiously, the actual origin of scones is still debated. While some suggest that they hail from Scotland, others believe that they were first made in Wales. Regardless of where they originated, lemon scones have evolved and become a beloved treat around the world.
In conclusion, lemon scones are the perfect blend of citrus, buttery goodness, and a rich history that makes them a delightful addition to any teatime or breakfast table. So give this recipe a try and transport yourself to a British tea room where lemon scones reign supreme!
