CHERRY ALMOND SCONES

Cherry Almond Scones: Buttery, Flaky, and Perfectly Sweet

If you’re looking for a bakery-style treat that’s elegant yet easy to make, Cherry Almond Scones are a perfect choice. These tender, flaky scones are filled with sweet cherries and enhanced with the delicate, nutty flavor of almond. Finished with a light glaze or a sprinkle of sliced almonds, they’re ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon tea treat.

With a golden, slightly crisp exterior and a soft, buttery interior, these scones strike the perfect balance between rich and refreshing. Whether served warm with a cup of tea or enjoyed as a grab-and-go snack, they’re sure to become a favorite in your baking collection.

Why You’ll Love Cherry Almond Scones

• Flaky and Tender: Classic scone texture with a buttery crumb

• Sweet and Nutty Flavor: Cherries and almond complement each other beautifully

• Perfect for Any Time: Great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert

• Easy to Make: Simple steps with impressive results

• Customizable: Use fresh, dried, or frozen cherries

Ingredients

For the Scones:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

• ½ cup dried cherries (or fresh, pitted and chopped)

• ¼ cup sliced almonds

• ¾ cup heavy cream

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon almond extract

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream

• ¼ teaspoon almond extract

Tip: Keep butter cold to ensure flaky layers in the scones.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

3. Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with small pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.

4. Add Cherries and Almonds

Stir in the dried cherries and sliced almonds, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

5. Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.

6. Form the Dough

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently mix until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix—this helps keep the scones tender.

7. Shape the Scones

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into 8 wedges (like a pizza) or use a round cutter for individual scones.

8. Bake

Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

9. Cool and Glaze

Allow the scones to cool slightly. If using glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract, then drizzle over the warm scones.

Tips for Perfect Scones

• Keep Ingredients Cold: Especially butter and cream for flaky texture

• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Leads to dense scones

• Use Fresh Baking Powder: Ensures proper rise

• Handle Gently: Light touch keeps scones soft

• Bake Immediately: Helps maintain structure and flakiness

Variations

• Fresh Cherry Version: Use fresh cherries for a juicier texture

• Chocolate Cherry Scones: Add mini chocolate chips

• Orange Cherry Almond: Add orange zest for a citrus twist

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend

• Vegan Version: Substitute butter with vegan butter and use plant-based cream

Serving Suggestions

Cherry Almond Scones are perfect when served:

• Warm with butter or clotted cream

• Alongside tea, coffee, or hot chocolate

• As part of a brunch spread

• With fresh fruit and yogurt

• As a light dessert with whipped cream

Nutritional Benefits

While scones are a treat, they provide:

• Energy: From carbohydrates and fats

• Healthy Fats: Almonds contribute beneficial fats

• Fiber: From cherries and nuts

• Protein: Eggs and cream add some protein

Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days

• Refrigeration: Keeps up to 5 days, though best fresh

• Freezing: Freeze baked scones or raw dough for up to 2 months

Tip: Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Warm Butter: Results in dense, flat scones

• Overmixing Dough: Makes scones tough

• Too Much Flour: Leads to dry texture

• Overbaking: Causes dryness—remove when just golden

Final Thoughts

Cherry Almond Scones are a delightful blend of flavors and textures—sweet cherries, nutty almonds, and a buttery, flaky base that melts in your mouth. They’re easy enough for everyday baking yet elegant enough for special occasions.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, enjoying a quiet morning, or baking for loved ones, these scones bring warmth and comfort to any moment. With their beautiful appearance and irresistible taste, they’re sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Treat yourself to these homemade Cherry Almond Scones and enjoy a bakery-quality experience right at home—simple, delicious, and truly satisfying.