Introduction to Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
As the holiday season approaches, I find myself craving the cozy flavors of peppermint and white chocolate. That’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for Peppermint White Chocolate Scones! These delightful treats are not just a quick solution for a busy day; they’re also a way to impress your loved ones with minimal effort. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked scones wafting through your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Whether it’s for a festive brunch or a sweet afternoon snack, these scones are sure to bring joy to your holiday celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
These Peppermint White Chocolate Scones are a holiday dream come true! They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy moms like us. In just 35 minutes, you can have a batch of warm, festive scones ready to share. The combination of creamy white chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a taste that feels like a warm hug. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients for Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Peppermint White Chocolate Scones. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of your scones, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve that lovely golden color.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent gives the scones their light and fluffy texture.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter: Cold and cubed, it creates those flaky layers we all love.
- White chocolate chips: These little morsels bring a creamy sweetness that pairs perfectly with peppermint.
- Peppermint extract: The star of the show! It infuses the scones with that refreshing holiday flavor.
- Heavy cream: Adds richness and moisture, making the scones tender.
- Large egg: Helps bind the ingredients together and adds a lovely richness.
- Crushed peppermint candies: For topping, these add a festive crunch and extra peppermint flavor.
For those looking to customize, you can swap in whole wheat flour for a heartier scone or use dairy-free butter and cream for a vegan version. If you can’t find peppermint extract, feel free to use peppermint oil, but use it sparingly! You’ll find the exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing.
How to Make Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Peppermint White Chocolate Scones! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of festive scones in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your scones bake evenly and rise beautifully. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This combination is the backbone of your scones. Make sure there are no lumps, as this will help create a light and fluffy texture. It’s like giving your scones a solid foundation!
Step 3: Incorporate Butter
Next, add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You want to see small bits of butter throughout. This is what creates those flaky layers we all love in a good scone!
Step 4: Add White Chocolate Chips
Now, stir in the white chocolate chips. These little gems add a creamy sweetness that perfectly complements the peppermint. It’s like a surprise party for your taste buds! Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, large egg, and peppermint extract. This mixture brings moisture and flavor to your scones. The peppermint extract is the star here, so don’t be shy—let it shine!
Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep that tender texture. It’s okay if there are a few floury spots—this is a scone, not a cake!
Step 7: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Just a few folds will do! You want to bring it together without overworking it. Think of it as giving your dough a little hug, not a wrestling match!
Step 8: Shape and Cut the Scones
Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Then, cut it into wedges. You can use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter for clean edges. Place the wedges on your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them. They’ll puff up beautifully in the oven!
Step 9: Prepare for Baking
Before baking, sprinkle the tops of the scones with crushed peppermint candies. This adds a festive crunch and a pop of color. It’s like dressing your scones in holiday cheer!
Step 10: Bake the Scones
Finally, bake your scones for 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as oven times can vary. You’ll know they’re done when they’re lightly browned on top and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool slightly before serving, and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen!
Tips for Success
- Use cold butter for flaky scones; it’s key to that perfect texture.
- Don’t overmix the dough; a few lumps are okay!
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dry ingredients.
- Let the scones cool slightly before serving to enhance their flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl for dry ingredients and a smaller one for wet ingredients.
- Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients; a fork works in a pinch!
- Pastry cutter: Great for cutting in butter; your fingers can do the job too.
- Baking sheet: A standard one lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Knife or pizza cutter: For cutting the scones into wedges.
Variations
- Chocolate Mint Scones: Swap out white chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these scones suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Vegan Version: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
- Spiced Scones: Incorporate a teaspoon of ground ginger or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Coffee: Enjoy these scones with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
- Festive Platter: Arrange scones on a decorative platter with fresh berries for a pop of color.
- Drizzle with Glaze: A simple white chocolate glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness.
- Serve with Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream makes for a delightful addition.
FAQs about Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
Can I make these scones ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just shape the scones and bake them when you’re ready. This is a great time-saver for busy mornings or holiday gatherings!
How do I store leftover scones?
To keep your Peppermint White Chocolate Scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I substitute the white chocolate chips?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of white chocolate, feel free to use dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips instead. You can also try adding dried cranberries or cherries for a fruity twist that pairs beautifully with peppermint.
What can I serve with these scones?
These scones are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience by pairing them with a warm cup of tea or coffee. A drizzle of white chocolate glaze or a dollop of whipped cream also makes for a lovely addition!
Can I make these scones gluten-free?
Definitely! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well. This way, everyone can enjoy the festive flavors of these Peppermint White Chocolate Scones!
Final Thoughts
Making Peppermint White Chocolate Scones is more than just baking; it’s about creating moments of joy during the holiday season. The delightful aroma that fills your kitchen, the smiles on your loved ones’ faces, and the warmth of sharing these treats together are what truly matter. Each bite is a reminder of the magic of the holidays, bringing comfort and cheer. So, whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee or sharing them at a festive gathering, these scones are sure to become a cherished tradition in your home. Happy baking!
Print
Peppermint White Chocolate Scones: A Holiday Delight!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones 1x
- Category: Baked Goods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously festive scones infused with peppermint and white chocolate, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the white chocolate chips.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and peppermint extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times.
- Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick and cut into wedges.
- Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a stronger peppermint flavor, increase the amount of peppermint extract.
- These scones are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Serve with a drizzle of white chocolate glaze for extra sweetness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
