ππ₯ Apple Cream Scones π₯π
Apple Cream Scones are a delightful and comforting baked treat that combines the goodness of apples and the richness of cream. These scones are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack with a cup of tea or coffee. Let’s dive into the history, components, preparation steps, and estimated time required for making these scrumptious scones.
π History:
Scones, in general, have Scottish origins and have been enjoyed for centuries. They started as a simple type of bread cooked on a griddle. Over time, variations like these Apple Cream Scones have emerged as people experimented with different ingredients and flavors.
π₯ Components:
To make Apple Cream Scones, you will 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 (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup finely diced apples (about 1 medium-sized apple)
- Optional: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or apple pie spice for extra flavor
π©βπ³ Preparation Steps:
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and any optional spices you’d like to add.
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Incorporate Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
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Add Apples: Gently fold in the finely diced apples.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
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Form Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.
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Shape Scones: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick circle. Cut it into 8 wedges.
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Bake: Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown on the edges and cooked through.
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Cool: Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.
π Time Estimate:
The preparation time for Apple Cream Scones will typically take around 30 minutes, including mixing the ingredients and shaping the scones. Baking them will add an additional 15-18 minutes, so in total, you can expect to enjoy these delicious scones in approximately 45-50 minutes from start to finish.
Now you’re ready to savor the delightful combination of tender scone texture and the sweet, tart flavor of apples in your Apple Cream Scones. Enjoy! ππ₯π
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Apple Cream Scones (per serving, assuming the recipe makes 8 scones):
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Calories: Approximately 300-350 calories per scone, depending on the size and specific ingredients used.
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Total Fat: About 15-20 grams per scone, primarily from butter and heavy cream. This contributes to the richness and flavor of the scone.
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Saturated Fat: Approximately 10-12 grams per scone. Saturated fat should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
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Cholesterol: Around 60-80 milligrams per scone due to the use of egg and butter. It’s essential to watch your cholesterol intake, especially if you have dietary restrictions.
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Sodium: Roughly 300-400 milligrams per scone, mostly from the added salt. Be mindful of your sodium intake if you have hypertension or other sodium-related health concerns.
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Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40 grams per scone, primarily from flour and sugar. Carbohydrates provide energy but should be consumed in moderation, especially for those monitoring their carb intake.
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Fiber: Typically low, around 1-2 grams per scone. You can increase fiber content by using whole wheat flour or adding oats.
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Sugar: About 10-15 grams per scone, depending on the sweetness level. Excessive sugar intake should be avoided for a balanced diet.
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Protein: Around 3-4 grams per scone, primarily from the flour, egg, and cream. Protein is essential for various bodily functions.
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Vitamins and Minerals: Scones may provide small amounts of essential nutrients such as calcium, iron, and vitamin A from ingredients like butter and eggs.
Health Information:
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Apple Cream Scones can be enjoyed as an occasional treat but should not be a regular part of a daily diet due to their relatively high calorie, fat, and sugar content.
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It’s advisable to pair scones with a balanced meal to ensure you’re meeting your nutritional needs.
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To make them slightly healthier, you can consider using whole wheat flour for added fiber or reducing sugar and butter content.
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Individuals with specific dietary restrictions or health conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, should consume scones in moderation or explore healthier alternatives.
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Always consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice based on your specific health goals and requirements.
Remember that while Apple Cream Scones are a delightful treat, they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet to maintain overall health and well-being.