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Soft and Buttery Lemon Scones with Bright Lemon Glaze

A stack of four freshly baked lemon scones generously drizzled with a thick, bright yellow lemon glaze.

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This recipe produces tender, moist lemon scones with a simple, tangy glaze, perfect for breakfast or tea time.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for dough)
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Stir in the lemon zest.
  5. In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg, heavy cream (or buttermilk), and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
  6. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a fork until just combined; do not overmix. The dough will be slightly sticky.
  7. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat or roll the dough into a 3/4-inch thick circle or square.
  8. Cut the dough into 8 wedges or use a round cutter. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet.
  9. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden brown.
  10. While the scones cool slightly, whisk together the powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to make the glaze.
  11. Drizzle the glaze over the warm scones before serving.

Notes

  • For extra soft scones, avoid overworking the dough. Mix only until the ingredients come together.
  • If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, use Meyer lemons for zest and juice.
  • To make these Lemon Poppy Seed Scones, add 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds to the dry ingredients.

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