master-cooks | Mixed Berry Scones Recipe

Mixed Berry Scones are a delightful and versatile treat, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. These scones are tender and crumbly, with a slightly crisp exterior that gives way to a soft and buttery interior. The recipe begins with a simple dough made from all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt, which is then enriched with cold, cubed butter to create a light and flaky texture. Fresh or frozen mixed berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries, are gently folded into the dough, providing bursts of juicy sweetness throughout each bite. To prepare the scones, the dough is shaped into a disc and cut into wedges before being brushed with a light egg wash or cream to encourage a golden-brown finish. Baking at a moderate temperature allows the scones to rise beautifully, creating layers that pull apart easily. Once baked, they are best enjoyed warm, perhaps with a dollop of clotted cream or a smear of jam, enhancing their fruity flavors. Mixed Berry Scones are an easy yet impressive bake that celebrates the natural sweetness and vibrant colors of ripe berries, making them a favorite for both casual and formal gatherings.

The ingredients you'll need for mixed berry scones

For this recipe, you'll require the following ingredients: all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, baking powder, heavy cream, one egg, vanilla extract, frozen butter, a mix of berries, lemon zest, powdered sugar, milk, and coarse sugar for a delightful crunch on top. Feel free to use any combination of berries you prefer, substituting Manolova's blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries with strawberries, black or red currants, or even cherries.

Step 1: Combine the dry ingredients

In a medium to large mixing bowl, mix together flour, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder.

Step 2: Whisk the wet ingredients

In a different large bowl, beat together ½ cup of heavy cream, an egg, and vanilla extract.

Step 3: Grate the cold butter

Shred the chilled butter with the coarse side of a box grater.

Step 4: Combine the butter and dry ingredients

Incorporate grated butter into the flour mixture. Using your hands, swiftly blend the butter with the flour.

Step 5: Combine the wet and dry ingredients

Drizzle the flour-butter blend over the rich cream mixture.

Step 6: Bring the dough together

Mix the dough with a rubber or wooden spatula.

Step 7: Mix in the berries and lemon zest

Carefully incorporate the berries and lemon zest, then move the dough to a floured countertop.

Step 8: Shape the dough

Form the dough into a disk approximately 7 inches wide, adding more flour as needed if the dough is overly sticky.

Step 9: Freeze

Encase the dough in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for 30 minutes.

Step 10: Preheat the oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F and place a rack in the center.

Step 11: Make the glaze

In the meantime, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl. Set it aside.

Step 12: Slice the dough

After 30 minutes, remove the dough from its wrapping and cut it into 8 wedges.

Step 13: Prep the scones for baking

Place the scones onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring there is approximately 2 inches of space between each one.

Step 14: Brush the scones with cream

Glaze the scones with the remaining 1 tablespoon of heavy cream.

Step 15: Sprinkle on some sugar

Dust with coarse sugar.

Step 16: Bake until golden brown

Place in the center of the oven and bake for approximately 20-22 minutes, or until it turns golden brown.

Step 17: Cool, glaze, and serve

Allow the scones to cool for a few minutes before drizzling with the glaze and serving.

How should you serve mixed berry scones?

When it comes to serving mixed berry scones, keeping it simple allows the flavors to truly stand out. Topped with a sweet glaze, these scones are delightful on their own for a cozy breakfast or a sweet afternoon treat. Alternatively, you can pair them with a dollop of whipped cream and some fresh berries on the side. For an extra touch, consider adding a layer of jam or a drizzle of honey, or indulge in them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and warm chocolate sauce.

If you're entertaining a group, create a mixed berry scone platter featuring a variety of toppings such as whipped cream, jam, honey, and nuts. They make an excellent addition to an afternoon tea party alongside your favorite caffeinated drinks.

Thanks to their portable nature, these scones are also perfect for lunch boxes, picnics, or road trips. Stored in an airtight container, they retain their flavor and texture, making them a delicious and convenient snack to enjoy wherever your day leads you.

How do you store mixed berry scones?

Keep your scones in an airtight container or bag at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to extend their freshness, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To freeze the scones, wrap them securely in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the frozen scones at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

Mixed berry scones are an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare the dough in advance and bake the scones when you're ready to indulge. Just follow the recipe to make the dough. After shaping the scones, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1-2 hours, or until they are firm. Once frozen, transfer the scones to an airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw them. Simply place the frozen scones on a baking sheet and bake according to the instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time and preparing the glaze while they bake.

Mixed Berry Scones Recipe