When the holiday season rolls around, the kitchen becomes a hub of warmth and cheer. During one particular snowy afternoon, I found myself searching for a cozy treat to pair with my steaming cup of tea. That’s when I decided to whip up these delightful Christmas Scones. Imagine the comforting aroma of cinnamon mingling with the nutty crunch of pecans and the tartness of cranberries—it’s a festive symphony that instantly lifts the spirit!
These scones are not only a breeze to make, but they also bring a touch of elegance to any gathering, whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or simply enjoying a quiet moment by the fire. Within just 35 minutes, you can create a batch that fills your home with the essence of Christmas and makes your loved ones feel truly special. So, if you’re tired of the same old fast food routine, join me in making these delightful Christmas Scones that are sure to become a new holiday favorite!
Why You'll Love This Christmas Scones
- These Christmas Scones are incredibly easy to whip up, making them a stress-free addition to your holiday baking lineup.
- With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can indulge in these delectable treats without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The combination of dried cranberries, pecans, and cinnamon creates a burst of festive flavors that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests.
- Not only do they taste amazing, but their beautiful presentation also adds a charming touch to any holiday table setting.
Christmas Scones Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create these festive delights!
For the Scone Dough
- All-purpose flour – a staple for perfect texture; don’t omit the sift for lightness!
- Sugar – adds a touch of sweetness; you can substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Baking powder – ensures your scones rise beautifully; use fresh for best results.
- Salt – enhances all the flavors; just a pinch does wonders.
- Unsalted butter – cold and cubed is key for flaky layers; keep it in the fridge until ready to use.
- Dried cranberries – brings a holiday sweetness; feel free to swap with raisins or currants if you prefer.
- Chopped pecans – adds crunch and nuttiness; walnuts are a great alternative.
- Cinnamon – a warm spice that elevates the flavor of your Christmas scones; consider adding nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Milk – binds the mixture; you can substitute with dairy-free milk for a vegan option.
- Egg – provides richness and helps with binding; for an egg-free version, try flaxseed meal mixed with water.
Optional Glaze
- Powdered sugar – for a sweet finish; mix with a little milk or water for a drizzly glaze.
- Vanilla extract – adds a touch of warmth to your glaze; almond extract can be a lovely twist.
With this fantastic selection of ingredients, you’re ready to create the most delightful Christmas Scones that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
How to Make Christmas Scones
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Start by getting your oven ready, ensuring a perfectly baked scone with a golden crust. This step is crucial for that warm, inviting aroma.
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Mix the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. This creates a delightful base for your scones.
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Cut in the butter. Add 1/2 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter to the mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—this step is what gives your scones that flaky texture!
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Stir in the cranberries and pecans. Gently fold in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and 1/4 cup of chopped pecans. This adds a festive twist and delightful texture to your scones.
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Whisk the wet ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of milk and 1 egg. This mixture will help bind your dough together beautifully.
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Combine the mixtures. Pour the milk and egg mixture into the dry ingredients and mix gently. You’ll want a slightly sticky dough—don’t overwork it!
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Knead the dough. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it gently a few times. Aim for a soft dough, just rich enough to come together without being sticky.
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Shape the dough. Form the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut it into wedges, like slicing a pizza, to create individual scones ready for baking.
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Bake the scones. Place the wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes. Look for a lovely golden color that signals perfection.
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Cool slightly before serving. Once they’re out of the oven, let the scones cool just enough to handle, then serve warm and enjoy a taste of holiday cheer!
Optional: Drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for an extra festive touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Scones are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon) in advance, storing them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can chop the cranberries and pecans and keep them refrigerated overnight to save time on busy mornings. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet ingredients with your prepped dry mix and follow the remaining steps. To maintain quality, keep your butter cold until just before use, as this ensures that your scones turn out delightfully flaky. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy fresh, festive Christmas Scones with minimal effort!
Christmas Scones Variations
Feel free to play with flavors and textures to make these Christmas Scones uniquely yours!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to those with dietary restrictions.
- Maple Twist: Replace sugar with 1/4 cup of maple syrup for a warm, earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spices.
- Nut-Free: Omit pecans and replace with an additional 1/2 cup of dried cranberries for extra fruitiness—delicious and allergy-friendly!
- Lemon Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon zest to the dough for a bright zing that perfectly complements the cranberries.
- Spiced Up: Incorporate 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for a spiced depth that will warm your heart.
- Chocolate Chip: Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips instead of dried fruit for a rich, luscious treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Coconut Delight: Mix in 1/4 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical flair that contrasts beautifully with the tart cranberries.
- Savory Option: Swap cranberries and pecans for cheddar cheese and chopped chives to create a savory scone perfect for breakfast or a meal accompaniment.
Embrace these variations to tailor your Christmas Scones to every mood and occasion—your kitchen will be a warm, welcoming place filled with delightful aromas, ready for your loved ones!
What to Serve with Christmas Scones?
When the sweet scent of freshly baked scones fills your home, it’s the perfect moment to think about what to pair them with for a complete festive experience.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a rich creaminess that perfectly complements the scones’ fluffy texture.
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Spiced Apple Cider: This warm drink with hints of cinnamon and cloves harmonizes beautifully with the scones, enhancing the cozy atmosphere.
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Fruit Compote: A tangy cranberry or mixed berry compote offers a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the scones, brightening every bite.
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Cream Cheese Spread: A light layer of whipped cream cheese, perhaps mixed with a touch of honey, can elevate the scone experience and add a deliciously creamy element.
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Hot Chocolate: Rich, velvety hot chocolate is a comforting choice that balances the festive flavors, making every moment feel special.
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Holiday Tea: A fragrant cup of spiced chai or peppermint tea pairs wonderfully, bringing a soothing warmth that complements the cinnamon and cranberries in the scones.
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Cheese Platter: Serve with a selection of sharp cheeses, like cheddar or brie, for a savory contrast. The nutty flavor of pecans in the scones pairs nicely with tangy cheese.
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Pumpkin Pie: For a dessert option, a slice of pumpkin pie can echo similar spices found in the scones, creating a delightful synergy on your holiday table.
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Gingerbread Cookies: These cookies can add a festive crunch and warmly spiced flavor, making a cheerful addition to your holiday spread.
Embrace the joy of the season by pairing your Christmas Scones with these delightful options, turning every gathering into a cherished memory!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Scones
Fridge: Store your cooled Christmas Scones in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for that just-baked taste.
Room Temperature: If you’re serving them within a few hours, keep the scones in a covered container at room temperature to preserve their delightful texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Christmas Scones, ensure your butter is well-chilled before cutting it into the dry mixture to achieve that flaky texture.
- A common mistake is overworking the dough; mix just until combined for the best results.
- Allow the scones to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to maintain their soft interior.
- For perfectly baked scones, monitor them closely during the last few minutes to achieve that golden-brown crust without over-baking.
Christmas Scones Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my cranberries are fresh?
Absolutely! When selecting dried cranberries, look for plump ones without dark spots or signs of drying out. They should have a vibrant color and a slightly chewy texture. If they’re hard or show signs of mold, it’s best to choose another pack.
How should I store my Christmas Scones?
Very! Place your cooled Christmas Scones in an airtight container at room temperature if you’ll be enjoying them within 3 days. If you’re planning to keep them longer, individually wrap each scone in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze the scones before baking?
Yes, you can! To freeze, shape the scone dough, cut it into wedges, and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for about 1 hour until solid, then transfer the wedges to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time!
What if my dough is too sticky?
No worries! If your dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a small amount of flour onto your work surface and gently knead it in, being careful not to overwork the dough. The goal is a slightly tacky consistency, which will help you shape the scones while still ensuring they turn out soft and fluffy.
Are these scones suitable for those with nut allergies?
Definitely! If you or your guests have nut allergies, simply omit the chopped pecans and perhaps add in some more dried cranberries, or use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy alternative. It’s all about making the recipe fit your dietary needs while still being delicious!
How do I know when my Christmas Scones are done baking?
Great question! Your Christmas Scones are ready when they have a lovely golden-brown color. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re perfect! Bake them for the full 20 minutes, but start monitoring at 15 minutes to avoid over-baking.
Equipment
- Oven
- Mixing bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
Scone Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 1/4 cup sugar or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder fresh
- 1/2 teaspoon salt just a pinch
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries can swap with raisins or currants
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon consider adding nutmeg
- 1/2 cup milk or dairy-free milk
- 1 large egg for an egg-free version, use flaxseed meal
Optional Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar mix with milk or water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix the dry ingredients: combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the cranberries and pecans.
- Whisk the wet ingredients: combine milk and egg in a separate bowl.
- Combine the mixtures to form a slightly sticky dough.
- Knead the dough gently on a floured surface.
- Shape the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick and cut into wedges.
- Bake the scones for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool slightly before serving warm.
