While wandering through a quaint little café, the scent of freshly baked goods enveloped me, leading to my ultimate weakness: scones. In that moment, I was inspired to create these Glazed Lemon Scones right in my own kitchen. With their beautifully crunchy tops and fluffy interiors, these lemon scones are not only a delightful treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack, but they’re also incredibly easy to whip up! Perfectly sweetened with a lemon glaze, they strike the ideal balance between indulgence and refreshment. Whether you’re an experienced home-chef or just looking for a way to escape the fast-food routine, this recipe brings a touch of homemade goodness to your table. Ready to brighten up your day with these citrusy delights? Let’s get started!
Why Are These Lemon Scones Irresistible?
Freshly Baked Goodness: There’s nothing quite like the aroma of warm lemon scones wafting through your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere for family and friends.
Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The zingy lemon zest adds a burst of freshness, perfectly complemented by the sweet glaze, making every bite a delightful surprise.
Quick and Easy: The straightforward process allows you to prepare these scones in under 30 minutes—ideal for a spontaneous brunch or an afternoon pick-me-up!
Versatile Enjoyment: Serve them with a dollop of cream, paired with your favorite coffee or tea, or even alongside a light spread of lavender honey butter.
Baking Made Simple: With ingredients you likely already have at home, there’s no need to rush for takeout when you can enjoy these beautiful homemade treats instead!
Lemon Scone Ingredients
• Discover the key components to the fluffiest lemon scones!
For the Scones
• Unbleached Flour – Provides structure for the scones; you can use all-purpose flour for similar results.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness; consider a lighter sugar for a healthier version.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a light, fluffy texture; make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; sea salt or kosher salt are great alternatives.
• Large Egg – Binds the ingredients and contributes richness; you can substitute with a flax egg if you’re vegan.
• Unsalted Butter (chilled, cubed) – Creates those flaky layers you love; cold coconut oil works well for a dairy-free option.
• Whole Milk – Adds necessary moisture; any milk or milk alternative like almond milk can be used.
• Lemon Zest – Imparts a refreshing citrus flavor; feel free to add more zest for extra zing!
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the flavor; you can swap it for lemon extract for an even stronger lemon profile.
For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze and gives it that smooth consistency you crave.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Provides tartness to balance the sweetness; adjust the amount for your desired tartness level.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re one step closer to creating the most delightful lemon scones that will surely melt in your mouth!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Glazed Lemon Scones
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you prepare the baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. A hot oven is essential to achieve that perfectly baked, fluffy interior with a delightful crunchy exterior on your lemon scones.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a stand mixer bowl, combine 2 cups of unbleached flour, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix these dry ingredients on low speed until they are well integrated, which takes about 30 seconds. This blend creates the foundation for your scones, ensuring they rise beautifully in the oven.
Step 3: Add Butter
Next, add 1/4 cup of chilled, cubed unsalted butter into the dry mixture. Using the mixer on low speed, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with small pea-sized butter pieces, about 2 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that flaky texture we crave in lemon scones.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 3/4 cup whole milk, and the zest of 1 large lemon. Once well combined, gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will help maintain the light, airy texture of your lemon scones.
Step 5: Shape Dough
Transfer the sticky dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it holds together. Form the dough into a 1-inch thick circle and cut it into 8 equal wedges. Place the shaped lemon scones onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is some space between each piece for proper baking.
Step 6: Bake
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the tops have risen beautifully. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes for that perfect doneness. You’ll know they are ready when they emit a delightful lemony aroma that fills your kitchen.
Step 7: Cool
Once baked, remove the lemon scones from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process helps the scones maintain their texture, ensuring they are light and fluffy inside.
Step 8: Prepare Glaze
While your scones cool, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, the remaining lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency with a little more lemon juice or powdered sugar, if necessary. This sweet glaze will add a lovely finish to your delicious lemon scones.
Step 9: Glaze Scones
Once the scones have cooled slightly, dip the tops of each into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them back on the wire rack to let the glaze set for about 15 minutes. This final touch ensures your Glazed Lemon Scones not only taste fabulous but look absolutely irresistible too!
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Scones
Airtight Container: Store leftover lemon scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours to maintain their freshness and moisture.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the lemon scones for up to 3 days. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, place the lemon scones in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without glaze.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then gently warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore their delightful texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Glazed Lemon Scones are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the scone dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply shape the dough into wedges and refrigerate them (this helps maintain their flavor and texture). If you’d like, you can also bake them ahead of time and store the cooled scones at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When ready to serve, glaze the scones, allowing the icing to set for about 15 minutes. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade lemon scones ready to brighten your busy mornings or afternoon snacks without the rush!
Expert Tips for Perfect Lemon Scones
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Chill the Butter: Using cold butter helps achieve that flaky texture in lemon scones. Chill it in the freezer for a short time before mixing for best results.
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Don’t Overmix: To keep your scones light and fluffy, mix until just combined. Overmixing can create dense, tough scones instead of airy ones.
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Watch the Bake Time: Every oven is different; keep an eye on the lemon scones as they bake to prevent overbaking. Look for golden edges and a delicious aroma!
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Adjust the Zest: If you love a strong lemon flavor, feel free to add more lemon zest into the dough. It elevates the citrus notes beautifully!
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Glaze with Care: After dipping the scones in glaze, allow them to set on a wire rack. A brief cooling period will help the glaze adhere without sliding off.
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Store Wisely: Lemon scones are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. For longer storage, freeze them without the glaze!
Lemon Scones Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to indulge your creativity and customize these lemon scones with these fun variations!
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Extra Citrus: Replace some milk with lemon juice for a more intense lemon flavor that shines through each bite.
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Gourmet Twist: Swap vanilla extract for lemon extract to deepen the lemon essence in the scones, making them even more scrumptious.
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Half Vanilla Bean: Use half a teaspoon of vanilla bean paste instead of extract for delightful specks of vanilla that elevate the scone’s flavor.
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Fruit Add-ins: Toss in dried fruits like cranberries or blueberries for added flavor and texture, creating a beautiful burst in every scone.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing the taste you love.
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Healthy Sweetener: Try using coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a healthier alternative that still delivers the sweetness needed for these treats.
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Coconut Bliss: Swap out the unsalted butter for coconut oil for a dairy-free version that adds a lovely tropical hint to your scones.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger for an unexpected spicy twist that complements the citrus perfectly.
These delightful adaptations can bring new dimensions to your scones, making for delicious variations you’ll adore alongside a cup of tea or coffee. You might also enjoy pairing your scones with a refreshing tea or a light spread of lavender honey butter. Dive into the world of flavors and make your lemon scones uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Glazed Lemon Scones
Elevate your Glazed Lemon Scones experience with these delightful pairings that enhance their zesty flavor and cozy charm.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries and blueberries add a burst of natural sweetness and vibrant color, perfectly balancing the citrus notes.
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Clotted Cream: The rich, buttery texture of clotted cream creates a luxurious spread that pairs harmoniously with the scone’s airy crumb.
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Herbal Tea: A fragrant cup of chamomile or mint tea complements the lemony brightness, creating a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.
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Honey Butter: A light spread of honey butter adds a sweet and creamy touch, enhancing the scone’s lovely glaze while bringing a wellness vibe to the table.
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Lemonade Spritzer: The crisp, refreshing bubbles of a lemonade spritzer capture the essence of summer, making it a fun and zesty drink option.
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Lemon Curd: For the ultimate citrus lover, serve with a dollop of tangy lemon curd for double the lemony goodness in each bite!
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Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and fruits, this parfait provides a delightful texture contrast and a healthy addition to your scone experience.
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Iced Coffee: The rich flavor of iced coffee provides a perfect caffeine lift and contrasts nicely with the sweet citrus glaze.
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Shortbread Cookies: For an extra sweet treat, pair your scones with buttery shortbread cookies that share the same melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside warm scones creates a delightful dessert experience that’s indulgent and refreshing.
Glazed Lemon Scones Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe lemons for the best flavor?
Absolutely! When selecting lemons, look for those that are bright yellow and feel firm but slightly heavy for their size. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkled skins, which can indicate a lack of freshness. The zest from fresh, ripe lemons will provide a much more vibrant flavor for your scones.
What is the best way to store leftover lemon scones?
To store your lemon scones, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. If you want to keep them longer, I recommend refrigerating them for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are wrapped well to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze lemon scones and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze your lemon scones! First, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until they’re firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to glaze them after thawing for the best taste and texture!
What are some common issues I might encounter when baking lemon scones?
Very! One common issue is if the scones turn out too dense; this often happens from overmixing the dough. To avoid this, mix just until the ingredients are combined. Another potential problem is if they don’t rise well; make sure your baking powder is fresh since it’s crucial for that lovely fluffy texture.
Are lemon scones suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Certainly! For a vegan option, substitute the large egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed combined with 3 tablespoons water) and use non-dairy milk and butter alternatives. Always double-check ingredients for any allergens, especially if you have guests with specific dietary needs.
Lemon Scones That Melt in Your Mouth with Sweet Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix on low speed for about 30 seconds.
- Add chilled butter and blend on low until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, about 2 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, vanilla extract, milk, and lemon zest. Gradually mix with the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Transfer dough to a floured surface, knead lightly, shape into a circle, and cut into 8 wedges. Place on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them for perfect doneness.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Whisk together powdered sugar, the remaining lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth for the glaze.
- Dip the tops of the cooled scones in the glaze and set on a wire rack for 15 minutes to set.
