Scones are a beloved classic that brings comfort and joy to any breakfast or afternoon tea. These raspberry white chocolate scones take the traditional scone recipe to the next level, combining the tartness of fresh raspberries with the sweet richness of white chocolate. The result is a light, flaky, and buttery scone with bursts of fruity sweetness and creamy chocolate in every bite. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch gathering, pairing them with your afternoon tea, or simply enjoying them with a cup of coffee, these scones are sure to impress.

With the option to swap the heavy cream for plant-based cream and the flexibility to choose between white or dark chocolate, this recipe can be customized to suit your dietary preferences and taste. They are easy to make, with simple ingredients and a straightforward process, so you can enjoy freshly baked scones in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect Balance of Flavors

The tartness of the fresh raspberries pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the white chocolate, creating a flavor combination that’s both indulgent and refreshing.

2. Light and Flaky Texture

These scones have a light, airy texture with a slightly crisp exterior, thanks to the use of cold butter and heavy cream, making each bite melt in your mouth.

3. Versatile for Different Diets

You can easily make these scones dairy-free by swapping the heavy cream with plant-based cream, and the white chocolate can be substituted with dark chocolate for those who prefer a richer flavor.

4. Easy to Make

This recipe is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a delicious homemade treat without spending too much time in the kitchen.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a special occasion, brunch, or just a regular day when you want to treat yourself, these scones are the ideal choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Scones:

All-purpose flour
Sugar
Baking powder
Salt
Cold unsalted butter (cubed)
Heavy cream (or plant-based cream for a dairy-free version)
Vanilla extract
Fresh raspberries
White chocolate chips (or dark chocolate chips for an alternative)

For Brushing:

Extra heavy cream (or plant-based cream)

For Dusting (Optional):

Powdered sugar

Variations

Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based cream (such as coconut cream or oat cream) to replace the heavy cream. Ensure that your butter is also dairy-free, or opt for a plant-based butter substitute.
Chocolate Substitutes: If you don’t prefer white chocolate, you can use dark chocolate chips, or even try a mix of both for a unique flavor profile.
Add Nuts: For an added crunch, consider mixing in some chopped nuts, like almonds or pistachios, to the dough.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend if you’re following a gluten-free diet, ensuring the texture remains light and fluffy.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the cubed cold butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter.

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients

Pour in the heavy cream (or plant-based cream) and vanilla extract. Stir gently with a spoon until the dough just begins to come together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.

Step 5: Fold in the Raspberries and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the fresh raspberries and white chocolate chips, being careful not to crush the raspberries.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a circle, about 1-inch thick. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 wedges, like a pizza.

Step 7: Bake the Scones

Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced slightly apart. Brush the tops with a bit of extra heavy cream (or plant-based cream) for a golden, glossy finish. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the scones to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired, before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Cold Butter: The key to achieving light and flaky scones is using cold butter. Make sure it’s cubed before adding it to the flour mixture.
Don’t Overwork the Dough: To keep the scones light and tender, mix the dough gently and avoid overworking it.
Frozen Raspberries: If using frozen raspberries, be sure to fold them into the dough while still frozen to prevent them from releasing too much liquid.
Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft to handle, chill it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before shaping and cutting.

How to Serve

Serve these raspberry white chocolate scones warm from the oven, with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. They are perfect for a weekend brunch or a cozy afternoon treat. You can also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of raspberry jam for an added indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked scones by placing them on a baking sheet and freezing them until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, place them directly on a baking sheet and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To reheat scones, place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen raspberries in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries, but be sure to fold them into the dough while still frozen to prevent them from releasing excess moisture into the batter.

2. Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Absolutely! If you don’t like white chocolate, you can substitute dark chocolate chips, or even mix both white and dark chocolate together for a unique flavor.

3. How can I make these scones dairy-free?

You can substitute the heavy cream with plant-based cream, such as coconut cream or oat cream. Ensure that you also use dairy-free butter in the dough.

4. How do I prevent the scones from becoming too dry?

Be careful not to overwork the dough and ensure that you don’t bake them for too long. Overbaking can dry out the scones, so keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time.

5. Can I add other fruits to the scones?

Yes, you can add other fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or blackberries in place of or in addition to the raspberries.

6. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply shape the dough and proceed with the recipe.

7. Can I freeze baked scones?

Yes, you can freeze baked scones. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they will stay fresh for up to 2-3 months. Reheat them in the oven before serving.

8. How should I store leftover scones?

Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or refrigerate them for up to 5 days.

9. Can I freeze unbaked scones?

Yes, you can freeze unbaked scones. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

10. What’s the best way to reheat scones?

To reheat scones, place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a few seconds if you’re in a hurry.

Conclusion

These raspberry white chocolate scones are a perfect treat for any occasion. Their combination of tart raspberries and sweet white chocolate, paired with a light and flaky texture, makes them a delicious and indulgent choice. Whether you’re making them for yourself or sharing with loved ones, these scones are sure to impress. Plus, they’re easy to customize for dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy them.