A Cozy Morning with Family: Blueberry Scones for Breakfast
One of my favorite memories is waking up to a house full of family after a cozy sleepover. The morning light streaming through the kitchen windows, the sound of laughter from the kids, and the warmth of togetherness filled the air. I wanted to surprise everyone with a special breakfast treat that was both easy to make and delicious to share. I decided to whip up a batch of Blueberry Scones—a simple yet delightful pastry that pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea. As I mixed the ingredients and folded in the fresh blueberries, the anticipation of enjoying these warm, tender scones with my loved ones made the process even more enjoyable. The smell of baking scones soon filled the kitchen, drawing everyone to the table. It was the perfect start to a day spent with family, sharing stories and making new memories over a delicious homemade breakfast.
Did You Know?
Scones, a beloved British pastry, have evolved over centuries from simple griddle-baked breads to the delightful baked treats we enjoy today. Originating in Scotland, they were traditionally made with oats and cooked on a griddle over an open fire. Over time, scones became associated with afternoon tea, often paired with clotted cream and jam—a classic combination that remains popular worldwide. The addition of blueberries to scones brings a burst of fruity sweetness, making them a perfect choice for breakfast or a teatime treat.
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
Personal Tip: Sift the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt together for a lighter texture in your scones.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Cut in the Butter:
Personal Tip: Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to quickly incorporate the butter, ensuring it stays cold for flakier scones.
- Add the Cold Butter: Add the cold butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
Personal Tip: Make sure the milk and egg are at room temperature before mixing to help the dough come together more easily.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
Combine and Add Blueberries:
Personal Tip: Toss the blueberries in a bit of flour before adding them to the dough to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
- Mix Together: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the blueberries.
Shape and Bake:
Personal Tip: For perfectly shaped scones, pat the dough into a circle and cut it into wedges before baking.
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Form the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut into 8 wedges and place on a baking sheet.
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Bake: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 300; Fat: 12g; Saturated Fat: 7g; Carbohydrates: 42g; Fiber: 2g; Sugars: 14g; Protein: 5g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Opt for Frozen Blueberries: When fresh blueberries are out of season or expensive, opt for frozen ones. They work just as well in baking recipes like scones and are often more cost-effective.
- DIY Buttermilk Substitute: Instead of buying buttermilk for this recipe, make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Use Up Leftover Ingredients: If you have leftover milk or butter from other recipes, scones are a great way to use them up. They're forgiving with ingredient quantities and adapt well to variations.
- Repurpose Overripe Berries: If you have overripe or slightly squishy berries, don't toss them. They're perfect for baking into scones or muffins, where their softer texture blends seamlessly.
- Buy Ingredients in Bulk: Flour, sugar, and baking powder—staples in scone-making—are often cheaper when bought in larger quantities. Store them properly to maintain freshness.
- Make Double and Freeze: Scones freeze beautifully. Make a double batch and freeze half for later. They thaw quickly and can be reheated in the oven for a fresh-baked taste anytime.
- Invest in a Pastry Cutter: A good quality pastry cutter makes cutting butter into flour a breeze. It's a worthwhile investment if you plan to bake scones or other pastries regularly.
- Shop Sales for Baking Supplies: Keep an eye on sales for baking essentials like flour and sugar. Stock up when prices are low to save money in the long run.
- Experiment with Flavor Variations: Once you master basic scones, experiment with different fruits or add-ins like nuts or citrus zest. This keeps baking exciting without needing to buy new ingredients.
- Replicate Coffee Shop Treats at Home: Skip the pricey coffee shop scones and enjoy freshly baked ones at home. Not only is it more cost-effective, but you can customize flavors to your liking.
Let’s Learn About Blueberries
Blueberries are a small, round fruit known for their vibrant color and sweet-tart flavor. Native to North America, they grow on shrubs and thrive in acidic soils with proper drainage. Blueberries are categorized into two main varieties: highbush (most commonly cultivated) and lowbush (wild blueberries).
Growing and Harvesting: Blueberries are typically grown in cool climates and harvested from late spring to early summer, depending on the region. They require well-drained, acidic soil and are often harvested by hand or with mechanical harvesters. Wild blueberries are usually smaller and have a more intense flavor than their cultivated counterparts.
Frozen vs. Fresh: Fresh blueberries are delicious and nutrient-dense, but frozen blueberries retain most of their nutritional content and are available year-round. Freezing blueberries preserves their flavor and antioxidants, making them a convenient option for smoothies, baking, or snacking.
What to Watch For: When purchasing blueberries, check for organic options to avoid pesticide residues, as blueberries are often sprayed. Look for firm, plump berries with a consistent dark blue color. Rinse them gently before consuming, and store them in the fridge for up to a week.