lemon scones with lemon curd

Lemon

3 min read

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31-01-2025

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Forget everything you thought you knew about scones. These aren't your grandma's dry, crumbly biscuits. We're talking tender, melt-in-your-mouth lemon scones, bursting with bright citrus flavor and perfectly complemented by a luscious homemade lemon curd. This recipe elevates the classic scone to a whole new level of deliciousness, guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palate.

Why This Recipe is the Best

This recipe stands out for several reasons:

• Maximum Lemon Flavor: We're not shy with the lemon. Zest and juice are used generously in both the scones and the curd, ensuring a vibrant, zesty experience with every bite.
• Tender, Flaky Texture: The secret lies in the technique. We'll explore how to achieve that perfect balance of tenderness and flakiness, resulting in scones that are light and airy, not dense and heavy.
• Easy-to-Follow Instructions: Even novice bakers can confidently tackle this recipe. The steps are clearly explained, with helpful tips and tricks along the way.
• Homemade Lemon Curd: Making your own curd is surprisingly simple and infinitely rewarding. The flavor and quality far surpass store-bought options. Plus, it's incredibly versatile and can be used in countless other recipes.

Ingredients:

For the Lemon Scones:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 2 tbsp lemon juice

For the Lemon Curd:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
• 4 large eggs
• 6 tbsp (3 ounces) unsalted butter, cut into cubes

Instructions:

Making the Lemon Scones:

1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cut in Butter: Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
5. Combine: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Shape: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick circle.
7. Cut & Bake: Use a sharp knife or a biscuit cutter to cut the dough into 8 wedges. Place the scones onto the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Making the Lemon Curd:

1. Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the lemon juice and eggs until smooth.
3. Cook: Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the curd thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 8-10 minutes).
4. Remove from Heat: Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and smooth.
5. Strain (Optional): For a super-smooth curd, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve.
6. Cool: Let the curd cool completely before using.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the warm lemon scones with a generous dollop of the homemade lemon curd. A dusting of powdered sugar is a lovely finishing touch. Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for the perfect afternoon treat. These scones also make a delightful addition to a brunch spread.

Tips and Variations:

• For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of buttermilk.
• Add a handful of blueberries or raspberries to the scone dough for a delightful twist.
• Experiment with different citrus fruits, such as orange or lime, in both the scones and the curd.
• Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The lemon curd can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

This recipe is a testament to the simple pleasures of baking. The combination of tangy lemon, buttery scones, and creamy curd is a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to be amazed by the burst of sunshine this recipe brings to your kitchen and your taste buds.