Almond-Ginger-Pear Scones

🧁 Almond-Ginger-Pear Scones 🍐

Almond-Ginger-Pear scones are a delightful and flavorful variation of traditional scones. They combine the earthy sweetness of pears, the warmth of ginger, and the nuttiness of almonds to create a scrumptious treat. Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know:

📜 History:
Scones have a long history that can be traced back to Scotland in the 16th century. Originally, they were round and flat, baked on a griddle, and made with oats. Over time, scones evolved into the triangular-shaped, oven-baked treats that we know today. The addition of various ingredients like fruits, nuts, and spices has led to a wide array of flavor combinations, including the Almond-Ginger-Pear version.

🥘 Components:

• 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 sliced almonds
• 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and diced
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

👩‍🍳 Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.

3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Stir in the sliced almonds, diced pears, and ground ginger, making sure they are evenly distributed in the mixture.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract.

6. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently stir until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until the ingredients come together.

7. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick.

8. Use a sharp knife to cut the circle into 8 triangular scones.

9. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

11. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes.

12. Serve your delicious Almond-Ginger-Pear scones warm with a side of clotted cream or your favorite jam.

⏱️ Time Needed:
The preparation and baking of Almond-Ginger-Pear scones will take approximately 30-40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a relatively quick and rewarding baking project, perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea. Enjoy your homemade scones! 🍽️😊

Certainly, here’s some nutrition and health information for Almond-Ginger-Pear Scones:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Total Fat: 18-20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10-12g
• Cholesterol: 60-70mg
• Sodium: 300-350mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45-50g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2-3g
  • Sugars: 15-18g
• Protein: 5-6g

Health Information:

1. Caloric Content: Almond-Ginger-Pear Scones are moderately calorie-dense due to the butter, cream, and sugar. Enjoy them in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.

2. Fats: They contain a moderate amount of fat, with a significant portion being saturated fat from the butter. Saturated fats should be consumed in limited quantities for a heart-healthy diet.

3. Sugar: The sugar content in these scones is relatively high, primarily from the added sugar and the natural sugars in pears. Consuming too much added sugar can contribute to various health issues, so it’s advisable to monitor your sugar intake.

4. Protein and Fiber: These scones provide a small amount of protein and dietary fiber. Adding some fiber-rich foods to your meal can help with satiety and digestive health.

5. Vitamins and Minerals: While they may contain some vitamins and minerals from the pears and almonds, the overall nutrient density of these scones is relatively low.

6. Moderation: Almond-Ginger-Pear Scones are a tasty treat but are best enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet. Consider incorporating whole grains, fruits, and nuts into your regular meals for better overall nutrition.

Remember that specific nutritional values may vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. If you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions, it’s a good idea to consult with a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalized advice.