These Lemon Raspberry Scones are a delightful mix of buttery, flaky pastry infused with fresh raspberries and zesty lemon. The balance of tart and sweet creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience, while the golden-baked crust adds the perfect crunch. Each bite is rich in flavor, making it a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent afternoon snack.
The addition of a simple yet vibrant lemon glaze enhances the overall taste, giving the scones a beautiful glossy finish. These scones are easy to prepare and are best served fresh with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or just treating yourself, these Lemon Raspberry Scones will surely impress!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Gently fold in the raspberries.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and shape it into a disk about 1-inch thick. Cut into 8 wedges.
- Place scones on the baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let the scones cool before drizzling with the lemon glaze.
- To make the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Drizzle over cooled scones and serve.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 270 kcal | Servings: 8 scones
The Perfect Scone for Any Occasion
Few treats are as comforting as a freshly baked scone, warm from the oven with a golden crust and a soft, flaky interior. These Lemon Raspberry Scones take this classic pastry to the next level with a perfect balance of tart lemon zest and sweet raspberries, topped with a luscious lemon glaze. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon tea, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into what makes this scone recipe stand out, why you’ll love it, and how you can customize it to your liking.
What Makes These Lemon Raspberry Scones Special?
1. The Balance of Flavors
Scones can sometimes be a little dry or overly sweet, but this recipe achieves a perfect balance. The tartness of the fresh raspberries contrasts beautifully with the bright citrusy notes of lemon zest, creating a light and refreshing taste. The sweet glaze rounds out the flavors without overpowering them.
2. Buttery and Flaky Texture
A great scone must be tender and flaky, and the secret lies in using cold butter. When the butter melts in the oven, it creates steam pockets that give the scones a light, airy structure. This method ensures a delightful texture—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
3. Easy to Make
Many people think scones are difficult to make, but this recipe proves otherwise. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, even beginner bakers can achieve bakery-quality results at home.
4. Fresh and Natural Ingredients
Unlike store-bought scones that may contain preservatives and artificial flavors, this recipe uses natural ingredients like fresh raspberries, real lemon zest, and butter. This not only enhances the taste but also makes it a healthier option compared to processed alternatives.
5. Versatility
One of the best things about these scones is their versatility. You can enjoy them as a breakfast treat, a mid-day snack, or even a dessert. They pair perfectly with tea, coffee, or a refreshing glass of lemonade.
Health Benefits of Lemon Raspberry Scones
While scones are typically an indulgence, they do have some nutritional benefits when made with the right ingredients.
1. Antioxidant-Rich Raspberries
Raspberries are packed with antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and support heart health. They are also high in fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full for longer.
2. Vitamin C Boost from Lemons
Lemons are a great source of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and promotes healthy skin. The natural acidity in lemons also helps balance the sweetness of the scones, making them a lighter, more refreshing treat.
3. Source of Healthy Fats
While butter is often seen as an indulgence, it contains healthy fats that are essential for brain function and overall well-being. Using real butter instead of processed alternatives ensures you get a more natural source of these fats.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lemon Raspberry Scones
This recipe follows a simple, foolproof method to achieve perfect scones every time. Here’s a quick breakdown of the process:
- Preheat the Oven – Baking at the right temperature ensures a perfectly golden crust.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients – Flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest are combined to create a well-balanced base.
- Cut in the Butter – Cold, cubed butter is worked into the flour mixture to create a crumbly texture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients – Heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice are mixed separately to keep the dough tender.
- Gently Fold in Raspberries – Carefully incorporate fresh raspberries to avoid breaking them too much.
- Shape and Cut the Dough – Form a disc, cut it into wedges, and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake Until Golden Brown – 18-20 minutes is the perfect baking time for a light and flaky texture.
- Drizzle with Lemon Glaze – A simple powdered sugar and lemon juice glaze enhances the flavor and adds a beautiful finish.
Expert Tips for Perfect Scones
- Keep the butter cold – Cold butter is the key to achieving the perfect flaky texture. If needed, freeze the butter for 10 minutes before using it.
- Don’t overmix the dough – Overworking the dough will make the scones dense instead of light and fluffy. Mix until just combined.
- Use fresh raspberries – Frozen raspberries can work, but they tend to release more moisture, making the dough too wet. If using frozen berries, do not thaw them before adding.
- Chill the dough before baking – Letting the shaped scones rest in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before baking helps maintain their shape.
Serving Suggestions
Best Ways to Enjoy Lemon Raspberry Scones
- With Clotted Cream & Jam – A classic British-style serving option for a luxurious treat.
- Paired with Tea or Coffee – The lemon flavor complements black tea, green tea, or a rich espresso.
- With Fresh Whipped Cream – Adds an extra layer of indulgence.
- As a Dessert – Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious end to any meal.
Variations and Customization
While this Lemon Raspberry Scone recipe is already fantastic, you can customize it to suit your preferences. Here are some variations:
1. Make it Healthier
- Substitute whole wheat flour for part of the all-purpose flour for added fiber.
- Reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet scone.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter option.
2. Add a Crunch
- Sprinkle turbinado sugar on top before baking for a crispy crust.
- Mix in slivered almonds or chopped pecans for extra texture.
3. Try Different Fruits
- Swap raspberries for blueberries, blackberries, or chopped strawberries.
- Mix different berries for a unique flavor combination.
4. Go Dairy-Free
- Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter.
- Substitute almond milk or coconut cream for the heavy cream.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Compared to store-bought scones, this homemade Lemon Raspberry Scone recipe is:
✅ Fresher – You control the ingredients, ensuring no preservatives or artificial flavors.
✅ More Flavorful – Fresh raspberries and lemon zest provide an unmatched taste.
✅ Healthier – No unnecessary additives, and you can adjust sugar levels as needed.
✅ Budget-Friendly – Baking at home is more affordable than buying expensive bakery scones.
Final Thoughts
Lemon Raspberry Scones are a delightful treat that brings together the perfect blend of buttery goodness, tart lemon, and juicy raspberries. Whether you’re looking for a comforting breakfast, an elegant afternoon tea snack, or a thoughtful homemade gift, these scones are sure to impress.
Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to bake a batch and enjoy the magic of homemade scones!
Conclusion
Lemon Raspberry Scones are the perfect combination of buttery, flaky texture, zesty lemon flavor, and bursts of fresh raspberries, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a quick breakfast, a relaxing afternoon tea snack, or a homemade gift for loved ones, these scones bring a touch of elegance and comfort to your table.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and versatility—with just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a bakery-style treat right at home. The balance of tart and sweet flavors, enhanced by a light lemon glaze, ensures that every bite is as delicious as it is satisfying.
By following the tips and variations mentioned, you can easily customize these scones to suit your preferences, making them healthier, crunchier, or even dairy-free. Unlike store-bought options, homemade scones allow you to control the ingredients, ensuring a fresh, preservative-free, and wholesome indulgence.
So, why wait? Bake a batch of these irresistible Lemon Raspberry Scones today and enjoy a little slice of homemade happiness! Whether served warm with butter, paired with tea, or simply enjoyed on their own, these scones are sure to impress and become a favorite in your kitchen.