Chocolate Chip Scones: 5 Best Recipes for a Delightfully Decadent Treat

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked scones to brighten your day. And when those scones are studded with rich, melty chocolate chips, they become an irresistible indulgence. This guide will walk you through the art of making perfect Chocolate Chip Scones, ensuring a flaky, tender crumb every time. Whether you’re planning a sophisticated afternoon tea or simply craving a sweet snack, these delightful pastries pair wonderfully with a robust cup of English Breakfast Tea. Get ready to elevate your baking game!

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Quick Glance Summary

These Chocolate Chip Scones are a dream come true for any breakfast or afternoon tea spread. With a crisp exterior and a light, tender interior bursting with chocolate, they’re surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Perfect for a cozy morning or a special occasion.

What You’ll Need

Gather your simple ingredients to create these irresistible treats. The key to perfect scones lies in using cold butter and not overworking the dough, resulting in a light and flaky texture.

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, very cold and cut into small cubes
• 1 cup buttermilk, cold
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
• Optional: extra sugar for sprinkling

Preparation Instructions

Creating perfect Chocolate Chip Scones is a satisfying process that yields delicious results. Follow these steps carefully to achieve a light, fluffy texture that pairs wonderfully with your favorite hot beverage, perhaps a comforting cup of English Breakfast Tea.

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, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips, a pastry blender, or a food processor, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. This step is crucial for flaky scones.
4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cold buttermilk and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a fork or your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should still be a bit shaggy.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
7. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat the dough into a round disc about 1 inch thick. Avoid kneading too much, as this can make the scones tough.
8. Using a 2-inch round cutter, cut out the scones. Gather the scraps, gently re-pat, and cut out more scones until all dough is used.
9. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch between each.
10. In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and milk for the egg wash. Brush the tops of the scones with the egg wash and sprinkle with a little extra sugar, if desired.
11. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through.
12. Transfer the baked scones to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

• Orange Zest Delight: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh orange zest to the dry ingredients for a vibrant citrus note that perfectly complements the chocolate.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts along with the chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
• White Chocolate & Raspberry: Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips and add ½ cup of fresh or frozen raspberries (do not thaw) for a burst of fruity sweetness.
• Spiced Warmth: Incorporate ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a subtle, warming spice.
• Classic Cream Tea: Serve your scones warm with clotted cream, strawberry jam, and a pot of hot tea for an authentic English cream tea experience.

Reviews

• Sarah P. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: “These scones are absolutely divine! So easy to make and incredibly flaky. My family devoured them in minutes. This is my new go-to recipe!”
• Mark T. ⭐⭐⭐⭐: “A truly delightful recipe. The cold butter technique really makes a difference. I paired mine with some homemade lemon curd, and it was heavenly. A perfect treat with my morning coffee.”
• Jessica L. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: “I’ve tried many scone recipes, but this one truly stands out. The instructions were clear, and the result was perfectly golden, tender scones. I even added a bit of almond extract, which was a lovely touch!”

FAQ

Q: Can I make the scone dough ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the dough, cut the scones, and then place them on a baking sheet. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 12 hours, or freeze for up to 1 month. Bake directly from the fridge or freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time if frozen.

Q: Why is cold butter important for scones?

A: Cold butter creates pockets of steam as it melts in the hot oven, which contributes to the scones’ characteristic flaky, tender texture. If the butter is too warm, it will incorporate too much into the flour, resulting in a denser scone.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?

A: You can easily make a substitute for buttermilk. Add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup, then fill the rest of the cup with regular milk (dairy or non-dairy) until it reaches 1 cup. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles.

Q: Can I use different types of chocolate?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with milk chocolate chips, dark chocolate chunks, or even a mix of different chocolates to suit your taste.

Q: How should I store leftover scones?

A: Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave or oven for the best texture.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of baking Chocolate Chip Scones opens up a world of delightful possibilities for your breakfast table or afternoon tea. With their golden crust and tender, chocolate-studded interior, these scones are more than just a treat—they’re an experience. Whether you enjoy them plain, with jam and cream, or alongside a warm cup of robust English Breakfast Tea, you’ll find them utterly irresistible. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and prepare to bake some magic into your kitchen.

Recipe Note

For the flakiest scones, remember to handle the dough as little as possible. Overworking the dough develops the gluten, leading to a tougher texture. A light touch is key!