If you’ve been searching for the perfect balance of tender crumb and bursting fruity flavor, this Buttermilk Blueberry Scones Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine flaky, golden scones with juicy blueberries tucked inside, brightened by a hint of lemon zest and the subtle tang from buttermilk—each bite melting in your mouth with buttery goodness. Whether you’re starting your day or enjoying a cozy afternoon tea, these scones bring a warm, comforting smile that feels like a hug from the inside. Trust me, once you try this Buttermilk Blueberry Scones Recipe, you’ll want to make it a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, accessible ingredients make this Buttermilk Blueberry Scones Recipe shine, each thoughtfully chosen to deliver incredible texture, flavor, and that perfect golden color. From the zing of fresh lemon zest to the creaminess of cold butter, every element plays a delicious role.
- 2 ½ cups flour: The foundation that gives scones their structure and crumb.
- â…“ cup sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to balance the tart blueberries.
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest: Imparts a fresh brightness that enhances the blueberries.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Essential leavening agent that helps the scones rise and stay light.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with buttermilk for tender texture and gentle lift.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Boosts overall flavor and balances sweetness.
- ½ cup cold butter (cubed): Creates flaky layers; keeping it cold is key.
- 1 cup blueberries: Fresh preferred for vibrant bursts of juicy flavor and color.
- â…” cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a prized tang, making the scones tender.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Lends a warm, mellow depth to the batter.
- 1 tablespoon milk: Used to brush the scones for a lovely golden finish.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Sprinkled on top to add sparkle and crunch.
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses flavor and enhances caramelization.
How to Make Buttermilk Blueberry Scones Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly sprinkle it with flour. This setup ensures your scones bake evenly and don’t stick, ready for their golden transformation.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, lemon zest, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients build the backbone of your scones, providing lift and that delightful crumb you crave.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to your dry mixture. Using a pastry blender, fork, or even your clean fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. This technique is crucial for those flaky layers that make scones special.
Step 4: Add Blueberries and Liquids
Carefully fold the blueberries into the crumb mixture to distribute without breaking them. Then, whisk together the buttermilk and vanilla extract, pouring it into the bowl. Stir with clean hands or a wooden spoon just until the dough comes together—no more. A messy, shaggy dough leads to the fluffiest, lightest scones.
Step 5: Shape and Cut the Dough
Turn your dough gently onto the prepared baking sheet. Using slightly damp fingers, pat it into a roughly 7-inch (18 cm) disk. Slice this disk into 8 equal wedges, then gently pull them apart about 2 inches (5 cm) so they bake evenly with beautifully crisp edges.
Step 6: Finish and Bake
Brush the scones with milk and sprinkle the granulated and brown sugar on top for a shimmering, sweet crust. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the tops are gloriously golden. Once baked, transfer them to a cooling rack and wait until they’re cool enough to touch. These scones are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven.
How to Serve Buttermilk Blueberry Scones Recipe
Garnishes
While these scones are incredible on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of lemon glaze brightens their appearance and flavor. For an extra touch, spread some clotted cream or your favorite fruit preserves to elevate each bite.
Side Dishes
Pair your Buttermilk Blueberry Scones Recipe with a hot cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee. A bowl of seasonal fruit salad also complements the scones perfectly, adding a fresh, juicy contrast that’s refreshing and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch gatherings or a fancy tea, arrange the scones on a tiered serving tray with delicate flowers for a charming look. You can also serve them alongside a selection of jams and honey in small bowls, inviting your guests to mix and match flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any scones leftover, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain their freshness without drying them out.
Freezing
To keep scones longer, freeze them before baking by shaping and slicing the dough on a baking sheet, then wrapping tightly once firm. Alternatively, freeze baked scones in a sealed container. Either way, they’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat your scones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their flaky texture and warm interior. Avoid microwaving as this can make them tough or rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries in this Buttermilk Blueberry Scones Recipe?
While frozen blueberries can be used in a pinch, they tend to release more juice and may turn the dough gray and messy. Fresh blueberries are highly recommended for the best texture and appearance.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix ⅔ cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes. This homemade substitute will provide the acidity needed for tender scones.
How do I avoid bursting the blueberries during mixing?
Be gentle when folding the blueberries into the batter, using a light hand and stirring just enough to combine. Overmixing can crush the berries and affect the scones’ texture and color.
Can I add other fruits or flavors to this scone recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. Try raspberries, chopped strawberries, or even lemon chips. Just remember to adjust quantities as needed to maintain the right dough consistency.
Why is it important not to overwork the dough?
Overworking develops gluten in the flour, which can make scones tough rather than tender and flaky. A gentle approach ensures your scones remain light and soft inside.
Final Thoughts
This Buttermilk Blueberry Scones Recipe offers a delightful escape into the world of freshly baked goodness, capturing the essence of a bakery treat right in your home kitchen. Each scone tells a story of buttery layers, juicy bursts of blueberry, and that subtle tang from buttermilk that pulls it all together. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients and straightforward steps come together to create such a comforting, irresistible delight. You deserve to enjoy these little moments of joy, one warm scone at a time.
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Buttermilk Blueberry Scones Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Buttermilk Blueberry Scones are tender, flaky, and bursting with fresh blueberries and a hint of lemon zest. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, they bake to a golden perfection and feature a sweet, crunchy sugar topping. Made with buttermilk for a moist texture and a subtle tang, these scones are delightfully easy to prepare and yield eight delicious pieces.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- â…“ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients & Add-ins
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup fresh blueberries (frozen blueberries not recommended to avoid soggy scones)
- â…” cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk (for brushing)
Topping
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and sprinkle lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, grated lemon zest, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Blend in butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture. Using a pastry blender, fork, or your clean fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse, pea-sized crumbs.
- Add liquids and berries: Gently fold the fresh blueberries into the crumb mixture. In a small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and vanilla extract, then pour this liquid into the flour and butter mixture. Stir gently with your hands or a wooden spoon just until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing to keep the scones light and prevent bursting the blueberries.
- Shape dough: Turn the dough out onto the prepared baking sheet. Gather it into a ball and gently flatten it into an approximately 7-inch (18 cm) diameter disk. Use slightly damp fingers to help shape the dough without sticking. Cut the disk into 8 evenly sized wedges and pull them slightly apart so there is about a 2-inch (5 cm) gap between each scone.
- Finish and bake: Brush the tops of the scones with milk. Sprinkle evenly with the granulated and light brown sugar mixture for a sweet, crunchy topping. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top. Transfer to a cooling rack and allow to cool just enough to handle. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh blueberries to avoid soggy or grey scones; frozen blueberries can be used but might affect texture and color.
- Do not overmix the dough to ensure the scones stay tender and flaky.
- For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice once the scones have cooled.
- Scones are best enjoyed warm, ideally fresh out of the oven or reheated slightly.
- You can substitute lemon zest with orange zest for a different citrus flavor.
