Almond Poppy Seed Scones

🥐 Almond Poppy Seed Scones 🥐

Almond Poppy Seed Scones are delightful baked treats that combine the nutty flavor of almonds with the subtle crunch and aroma of poppy seeds. They are a popular choice for breakfast or brunch and pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. Here’s everything you need to know about them:

📜 History:
The exact origin of Almond Poppy Seed Scones is a bit unclear, but scones, in general, have been a part of British and Irish cuisine for centuries. Scones likely evolved from a Scottish quick bread called “bannock.” The addition of almonds and poppy seeds to scones is a creative twist that has gained popularity in more recent times, adding a unique texture and flavor to the classic recipe.

🧁 Components:
To make Almond Poppy Seed Scones, you’ll need the following 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 cut into small cubes)
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• Zest of one lemon (optional)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

👩‍🍳 Steps to Prepare:

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

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Add Almonds and Poppy Seeds: Gently fold in the sliced almonds and poppy seeds until evenly distributed in the mixture.

4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, almond extract, and lemon zest (if using).

5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be crumbly.

6. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut the circle into 8 wedges.

7. Bake: Place the wedges onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

8. Cool and Serve: Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, you can dust them with powdered sugar for a sweet touch if desired.

🕒 Time Needed:

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Baking: 15-18 minutes
• Cooling: 10 minutes

In approximately 40-45 minutes, you can have these scrumptious Almond Poppy Seed Scones ready to enjoy. They are perfect for a leisurely breakfast or as a delightful snack any time of day. 😋👌🍽️

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Almond Poppy Seed Scones (per serving, assuming the recipe yields 8 scones):

• Calories: Approximately 280 calories
• Total Fat: About 17 grams
  • Saturated Fat: Approximately 8 grams
  • Trans Fat: 0 grams
• Cholesterol: Around 55 milligrams
• Sodium: About 320 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 27 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: Around 2 grams
  • Sugars: Approximately 6 grams
• Protein: About 5 grams

Health Information:

1. Moderation: Almond Poppy Seed Scones are a delicious treat but should be enjoyed in moderation due to their calorie and fat content.

2. Good Source of Healthy Fats: Almonds provide healthy monounsaturated fats which can be beneficial for heart health when consumed in moderation.

3. Carbohydrates: Scones are carbohydrate-rich, which can provide a quick source of energy, but they may lead to blood sugar spikes in large quantities.

4. Fiber: The scones contain a small amount of dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion and help you feel fuller for longer.

5. Protein: The scones offer a modest amount of protein, which is essential for tissue repair and overall body function.

6. Sodium: The sodium content should be monitored, especially if you have high blood pressure. You can reduce the salt content by using less salt or opting for a low-sodium alternative.

7. Customization: You can make these scones healthier by using whole wheat flour, reducing sugar, and incorporating more almonds for added nutrition.

Remember that the nutritional values provided are approximate and can vary depending on specific ingredients and serving sizes. Enjoy Almond Poppy Seed Scones as an occasional treat, and consider pairing them with fresh fruits and a balanced diet for a well-rounded meal.