There is something utterly irresistible about warm, flaky blueberry scones topped with a bright and tangy lemon glaze, and this Blueberry Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe captures just that magic. Perfectly tender on the inside with juicy bursts of fresh blueberries, complemented by the zing of lemon both in the dough and dripping glaze, these scones are a delightful way to start any morning or impress guests during brunch. They strike the ideal balance between sweet and refreshing, making each bite a comforting treat you’ll want to bake again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential, each playing a key role in achieving the perfect texture, flavor, and color of the scones. From the cold butter that creates that signature flakiness to the fresh lemon zest adding a subtle citrus note, every component is carefully chosen to elevate this Blueberry Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, providing structure and tenderness.
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to complement the blueberries and lemon.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures the scones rise beautifully and stay light.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the sweetness.
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed: The secret to flaky layers and rich buttery flavor.
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries: Bursts of juicy sweetness in every bite—frozen works perfectly without thawing.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Adds moisture and richness, making the scones tender.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to a golden crust.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Infuses the dough with fresh citrus brightness, enhancing the blueberry flavor.
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Provides a smooth, sweet base for the glaze.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Delivers tartness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest: Adds a punch of concentrated lemon flavor to finish the glaze.
How to Make Blueberry Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest. This combination sets the stage for the scones’ tender crumb and fresh lemon aroma.
Step 2: Cut in the Butter
Next, add the cold butter cubes to the dry mix. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the texture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized bits. This technique is essential for creating those wonderful flaky layers that make scones so delightful.
Step 3: Fold In the Blueberries
Gently fold the blueberries into the mixture, taking care not to crush them. Whether fresh or frozen, these juicy berries will add the perfect bursts of sweetness and moisture that bring life to your scones.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients and Mix
Whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined—hooking the dough together without overmixing preserves the scones’ tender crumb.
Step 5: Shape and Cut the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the dough into 8 equal wedges. Place these wedges on the prepared baking sheet, giving them enough space to rise and bake evenly.
Step 6: Brush and Bake
Brush the scone tops lightly with a little cream; this helps them develop a gorgeous golden brown finish. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the scones have risen and are golden on top. Let them cool slightly—just enough so they won’t melt the glaze.
Step 7: Prepare and Drizzle Lemon Glaze
While the scones cool, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Drizzle this bright, tangy glaze over the warm scones, allowing it to set lightly. This finishing touch ties the dish together and adds that irresistible lemony sweetness.
How to Serve Blueberry Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
To make these scones even more stunning, consider a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest or a few whole blueberries on top of the glaze. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate, snowy effect that’s perfect for a special brunch or afternoon tea.
Side Dishes
These scones pair beautifully with a steaming cup of Earl Grey tea or freshly brewed coffee. For a heartier spread, serve alongside creamy yogurt topped with honey and toasted almonds, or a fresh fruit salad to keep the flavors balanced and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, arrange the scones on a tiered stand accented with lemon slices and sprigs of fresh mint. You might also slice them horizontally and add a smear of whipped cream or tangy mascarpone for an elegant twist—almost like a tea-time sandwich that’s bursting with flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them tasting fresh, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain their lovely texture.
Freezing
These blueberry scones freeze beautifully. Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a sealed freezer bag. Frozen scones can be kept for up to 2 months, so you can enjoy a homemade treat anytime you like.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw scones at room temperature and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 to 7 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the texture gummy. You can also reapply a little fresh glaze for that original zing.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work wonderfully in this Blueberry Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe. Make sure not to thaw them before folding into the dough to prevent excess moisture from making the batter too wet.
What makes scones flaky?
The key to flakiness in scones is the cold butter. Cutting cold butter into the dry ingredients creates little pockets of fat that steam during baking, resulting in those tender, flaky layers. Handling the dough gently without overmixing also preserves the texture.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
While heavy cream adds richness, you can substitute it with whole milk or half-and-half if needed. Keep in mind this may slightly affect the tenderness and moisture of your scones, but they will still be delicious.
Is the lemon zest necessary in the glaze?
Yes, the lemon zest adds an extra depth of fresh lemon flavor and a bit of texture to the glaze. It really brightens and balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall zing of the Blueberry Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe.
How should I store leftover glaze?
Store any leftover lemon glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Stir well before using, as the glaze may thicken. You can thin it out with a bit of lemon juice or water as needed.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like biting into a warm, homemade scone brimming with juicy blueberries and kissed by a luscious lemon glaze. This Blueberry Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe is one of those delightful recipes that’s sure to become a treasured favorite in your kitchen. Whether for a weekend breakfast or a special occasion, these scones promise joy in every flaky, flavorful bite—so don’t wait, grab your ingredients and start baking!
Print
Blueberry Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Blueberry Scones with Lemon Glaze are a delightful breakfast or dessert treat featuring tender, buttery scones bursting with fresh blueberries and topped with a tangy lemon glaze. Perfectly golden and lightly sweetened, they offer a refreshing citrus twist that complements the juicy berries beautifully.
Ingredients
Scones
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- ½ cup heavy cream (plus more for brushing)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- zest of 1 lemon
Lemon Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest to evenly distribute the flavors and leavening agents.
- Incorporate Butter: Cut the cold, cubed unsalted butter into the dry mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs, ensuring the scones will be flaky and tender.
- Add Blueberries: Gently fold the fresh or frozen blueberries into the crumb mixture, taking care not to crush them.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.
- Form Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the scones light. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch-thick circle.
- Cut and Arrange Scones: Cut the dough into 8 equal wedges and place them spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with additional heavy cream for a golden finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and cooked through.
- Make Lemon Glaze: While the scones cool slightly, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl to create a smooth glaze.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm scones and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Frozen blueberries work well and do not need to be thawed before using, which helps prevent excess moisture.
- For an extra burst of lemon flavor, you can add a bit of lemon juice directly into the dough.
- These scones are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days without losing quality.
