Looking for a festive treat to brighten your holiday season? These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Scones pack sweet chocolate and refreshing peppermint in every bite. They’re simple to make and perfect for a cozy gathering or a morning treat. Join me as we mix, shape, and bake these delightful scones. Your friends and family will love the taste of the holidays in each flaky, warm bite. Let’s get started!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Festive Flavor: The combination of peppermint and chocolate creates a delightful holiday treat that captures the spirit of the season.
- Easy to Make: This scone recipe is simple enough for bakers of all levels, making it a quick option for holiday gatherings.
- Perfect Texture: The addition of cold butter and heavy cream ensures that the scones are flaky and tender, providing a satisfying bite.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins or adjusting the level of peppermint for personal taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Scones
To make these tasty scones, gather these main ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies (plus extra for garnish)
– 1 large egg, for egg wash
Each ingredient plays a key role. The flour gives structure, while the butter makes them flaky. Sugar adds sweetness, and baking powder helps them rise. The cream adds moisture, and the extracts bring in the festive flavors. Chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies add a delightful crunch and taste.
Additional Garnish Recommendations
To make these scones extra special, consider these garnish ideas:
– Extra crushed peppermint candies for topping
– A dusting of powdered sugar
– A drizzle of white chocolate
These garnishes not only look great but also enhance the flavor. Extra peppermint gives a nice crunch and brightens the festive feel.
Ingredient Substitutions
Don’t have all the ingredients? Here are some easy swaps:
– Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
– Substitute buttermilk for heavy cream for a tangy twist.
– Swap in dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.
These substitutions can change the flavor, but they keep the scones delicious. Always remember to keep the main ratios similar for the best texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet
First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps with cleanup and keeps the scones from sticking.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a big bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Use a whisk to blend them well. This step ensures the baking powder spreads evenly.
Incorporating Butter and Forming Dough
Next, take 1/2 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter and add it to the dry mix. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to break the butter into the flour. You want it to look like coarse crumbs with some small bits of butter still visible. This makes the scones flaky.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to the scones.
Folding in Chocolate Chips and Peppermint
Make a well in the center of your flour mix and pour in the cream mixture. Use a spatula to stir gently until combined. Don’t mix too much, as this can make the scones tough. Then, fold in 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/4 cup of crushed peppermint candies.
Shaping and Cutting the Scones
Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Knead gently a few times until it holds together. Shape it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife to cut the circle into 8 wedges. Place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each scone.
Applying Egg Wash and Baking
In a small bowl, beat 1 large egg until frothy. Brush the egg wash over the tops of the scones for a nice golden color. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until lightly browned. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean. After baking, let the scones cool slightly on a wire rack.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get that perfect texture in your peppermint chocolate chip scones, focus on the butter. Use cold, cubed butter and blend it until it looks like coarse crumbs. This step is key. It makes your scones flaky and tender. Also, mix the dough gently. Overmixing can lead to tough scones. It’s best to stir just until everything is combined.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is not measuring ingredients correctly. Always measure flour and sugar with precision. Too much flour can make your scones dry. Another mistake is skipping the egg wash. This step adds a beautiful color to your scones. Lastly, don’t forget to check your oven temperature. An oven that’s too hot can burn the scones.
Storing Leftover Scones
If you have leftover scones, store them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for up to two days at room temperature. You can also freeze scones for longer storage. Place them in a freezer bag. When you want to enjoy them, just reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This restores their warmth and texture!
Pro Tips
- Chill the Dough: For even flakier scones, chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before baking. This helps the butter to firm up, resulting in a better texture.
- Customize the Flavor: Feel free to adjust the amount of peppermint extract according to your taste preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with less and add more if desired.
- Use a Sharp Knife: When cutting the scones, use a sharp knife to ensure clean edges. This helps the scones rise evenly and look more appealing.
- Store Properly: To keep your scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them and reheat when ready to serve.
Variations
Alternative Flavors to Try
You can switch up flavors for these scones. Try orange zest instead of peppermint. It gives a bright, fresh taste. Or use almond extract for a nutty twist. For a fruity touch, add dried cranberries or cherries. These flavors keep the spirit of the holiday alive while offering a new experience.
Gluten-Free Options
If you need gluten-free scones, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Look for one that contains xanthan gum. This helps with texture. You can also use almond flour or coconut flour. Just remember to adjust the liquid. Keep an eye on baking times, as they may vary.
Adding Different Mix-Ins
Mix in other tasty treats to your scone dough! Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts add crunch. For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips or white chocolate. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. Get creative and make these scones your own!
Storage Info
How to Store Peppermint Chocolate Chip Scones
To store your peppermint chocolate chip scones, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for about two days at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them.
Best Practices for Freezing Scones
For freezing, wrap each scone in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag or container. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, you can bake them straight from the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat scones, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes or until warm. You can also microwave them for about 20 seconds if you want a quicker option. Enjoy them fresh and warm!
FAQs
How to make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Scones more festive?
You can make these scones more festive by adding colorful sprinkles on top. Another great idea is to glaze them with a simple icing made of powdered sugar and milk. You might also try using red and green crushed peppermint candies for a holiday touch. Serving them on a festive platter adds a nice visual appeal too!
Can I use other types of chocolate?
Yes, you can use other types of chocolate! Dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even mint chocolate all work well. Each type adds a unique flavor to the scones. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite combination.
Are these scones suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! These scones freeze very well. You can freeze the unbaked scones before egg washing them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with Peppermint Chocolate Chip Scones?
These scones pair wonderfully with hot cocoa or spiced tea. You might also enjoy them with whipped cream or your favorite fruit preserves. A dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone also adds a nice touch!
How do I tell when scones are done baking?
To know when your scones are done, look for a light golden color on the tops. You can also insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the scones are ready. Keep an eye on them, especially towards the end of baking time!
Peppermint chocolate chip scones are a treat you can easily make at home. We covered the key ingredients, from basic items to fun garnishes. I shared step-by-step instructions to help you bake perfectly. Remember to watch out for common mistakes. You can also explore variations and storage tips for freshness. In the end, these scones can bring joy to any occasion. Enjoy baking and tasting your delicious creation
