Lemon blueberry scones can offer several health and nutritional benefits when prepared with wholesome ingredients. Here are some of the potential benefits:
1. Vitamins and Antioxidants: Blueberries are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants. These nutrients help boost your immune system, promote collagen formation, and protect against oxidative stress.
2. Fiber: Scones made with whole wheat or whole grain flour can provide dietary fiber. Fiber aids in digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness, which can be beneficial for weight management.
3. Healthy Fats: Scones made with sources of healthy fats, such as nuts or seeds, can offer essential fatty acids like omega-3s. These fats support brain health, reduce inflammation, and contribute to overall heart health.
4. Lemon Benefits: Lemons are a great source of vitamin C and contain compounds that may have antibacterial and antiviral properties. Lemon zest and juice used in the scones can add a refreshing flavor and potentially provide some immune-boosting effects.
5. Reduced Sugar: If the recipe includes a reduced amount of added sugars, it can help lower the overall sugar content of the scones. This can be beneficial for those looking to manage their blood sugar levels or reduce their overall sugar intake.
However, it’s important to note that the overall healthiness of the scones will depend on the specific recipe and ingredients used. Some recipes may include excessive amounts of sugar, refined flour, or unhealthy fats. To maximize the health benefits, consider using whole grains, reducing sugar, adding nuts or seeds, and incorporating fresh fruits like blueberries and lemon zest into your scones. Moderation is also key, as scones are still considered a treat and should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
LEMON BLUEBERRY SCONES
INGREDIENTS
◾️2 cups all purpose flour
◾️¼ cup granulated sugar
◾️2 tsp baking powder
◾️½ tsp table salt
◾️6 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
◾️1 cup blueberries
◾️3 tbsp lemon zest
◾️¾ cup cold heavy cream
◾️1 egg, large
◾️2 tsp vanilla extract
◾️1 tbsp cold heavy cream
◾️2 tbsp sanding sugar, optional
INSTRUCTIONS
◾️Preheat oven to 200°c.
◾️Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
◾️In a large bowl, whisk together flour sugar, baking powder and salt.
◾️Using a pastry cutter, cut the butter into the flour mixture until only a handful of small, pea-sized pieces of butter remain.
◾️Add blueberries and lemon zest and stir to combine, just until blueberries are coated with flour mixture.
◾️In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream, egg, and vanilla extract.
◾️Pour cream mixture into flour mixture and stir with a fork until just combined.
◾️Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat into a disc about 6 inches across.
◾️Use a large knife or bench scraper to cut into 6 wedges.
◾️Transfer to prepared baking sheet.
◾️Brush the tops of the scones with heavy cream.
◾️Sprinkle with sanding sugar if desired.
◾️Bake for 16 to 19 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, rotating baking sheet halfway through.
◾️Serve warm or room temperature.
◾️Store leftovers in an airtight container. Best enjoyed the day they are baked.
Certainly! Here are some tips to help you make delicious lemon blueberry scones:
1. Use Fresh Ingredients: When making lemon blueberry scones, use fresh blueberries, lemons, and other ingredients to ensure the best flavor.
2. Choose the Right Flour: Opt for a combination of all-purpose flour and whole wheat or whole grain flour for a healthier option. This will add some nuttiness and fiber to the scones.
3. Keep Ingredients Cold: To achieve a light and flaky texture, make sure your butter and other cold ingredients are kept chilled until you’re ready to use them. Cold butter helps create pockets of steam, which results in a tender scone.
4. Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix them just until they come together. Overmixing can lead to tough scones. It’s okay if there are a few dry patches left.
5. Incorporate Blueberries Carefully: Gently fold the blueberries into the dough to prevent them from breaking and bleeding into the dough too much. This will help maintain the scone’s appearance.
6. Zest and Juice: Incorporate both lemon zest and lemon juice into the scone dough to infuse it with bright citrus flavor. The zest contains essential oils that enhance the lemony taste.
7. Shape the Dough Properly: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a circle or rectangle. Use gentle handling and avoid pressing the dough too much to maintain a tender texture.
8. Chill Before Baking: Once you’ve cut the scones into their desired shape, place them in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. Chilling the scones before baking helps them retain their shape and rise better.
9. Brush with Egg Wash: Before baking, brush the tops of the scones with a beaten egg or milk. This gives them a lovely golden color and a shiny finish.
10. Serve Fresh: Lemon blueberry scones are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Allow them to cool slightly before serving, and serve them with a dollop of butter, lemon curd, or a drizzle of glaze if desired.
Remember to adjust the tips according to the specific recipe you are using. Enjoy your homemade lemon blueberry scones!