These tender scones combine juicy raspberries with creamy white chocolate for a delightful flavor contrast. Made with cold butter and lightly folded batter, they bake to a golden-brown finish with a tender crumb. Ideal for breakfast or a teatime treat, they balance sweet and tart notes, enhanced by a subtle vanilla flavor. Using fresh or frozen raspberries works well, and coarse sugar topping adds a crisp texture. Best served slightly warm with clotted cream or a light glaze for an indulgent bite.
My daughter picked raspberries with me last summer. We ended up eating more than we saved for baking. These scones became our favorite way to use whatever made it home.
Last spring, I made these for my mothers birthday brunch. She took one bite and asked for the recipe immediately. Now we make them together whenever she visits.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: The foundation that gives these scones their structure and rise
- Granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to complement the tart raspberries
- Baking powder: Essential for that tall, flaky texture we all love
- Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness
- Unsalted butter: Must be cold and cubed to create those flaky layers
- Heavy cream: Adds richness and helps achieve that tender crumb
- Egg: Provides structure and helps bind everything together
- Vanilla extract: A little warmth that rounds out all the flavors
- Fresh raspberries: Use fresh if you can find them, but frozen works too
- White chocolate: Creamy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the berries
Instructions
- Preheat your oven:
- Get it to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- Mix the dry ingredients:
- Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl until combined
- Cut in the butter:
- Work cold cubed butter into the flour with your fingers until coarse crumbs form
- Combine wet ingredients:
- Whisk cream, egg, and vanilla together, then pour over the flour mixture
- Gentle mixing is key:
- Stir until just combined, being careful not to overwork the dough
- Add the goodies:
- Fold in raspberries and white chocolate as lightly as possible
- Shape the dough:
- Pat into a 7inch round on a floured surface, about an inch thick
- Cut and place:
- Slice into 8 wedges and arrange on your prepared baking sheet
- Add the finishing touch:
- Brush tops with cream and sprinkle with coarse sugar for sparkle
- Bake until golden:
- Let them bake for 16 to 18 minutes until beautifully browned
My friend Sarah says these remind her of her grandmothers kitchen. Something about the smell of baking scones just makes everyone feel at home.
Choosing Your Berries
Fresh raspberries are wonderful when they are in season, but frozen berries work beautifully here too. Just do not thaw them first or they will release too much moisture into your dough. Blueberries or blackberries make excellent substitutes if you prefer.
The White Chocolate Factor
Quality white chocolate makes a noticeable difference here. I have learned that some brands do not melt well or can taste waxy. Chop a good white chocolate bar into small pieces instead of using chips for better distribution throughout each scone.
Serving Suggestions
These scones are best enjoyed warm from the oven or gently reheated. They are perfect on their own, but a little clotted cream or lemon glaze takes them over the top. Split and toast them the next day if you have leftovers.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
- Freeze unbaked scones and bake straight from frozen
- Reheat at 350°F for 5 minutes to refresh
There is something special about a homemade scone with your morning coffee. These have become a weekend tradition I cannot imagine giving up.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I ensure the scones stay tender?
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Use cold butter and handle the dough minimally to keep the texture light and tender.
- → Can I substitute the raspberries with other fruits?
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Yes, blueberries or blackberries work well as alternatives, offering a similar sweet-tart flavor.
- → What is the best way to incorporate white chocolate?
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Fold white chocolate chips gently into the dough to prevent melting and maintain distinct pockets of creaminess.
- → Should I brush the scones before baking?
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Brushing with a little extra cream before baking helps achieve a golden, glossy crust.
- → How long should I bake the scones for optimal texture?
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Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 16–18 minutes until golden brown and slightly firm to touch.
- → Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
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Yes, chilling the dough before baking can help maintain tenderness and ease shaping.