These easy homemade fig scones are a tasty treat! They have sweet bits of fig mixed into a soft, buttery dough that’s baked to golden perfection.
Perfect with a cup of tea, they are great for breakfast or a snack. I love how fast they come together—you can be munching in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect for scones, giving them a nice structure. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use whole wheat flour, but it may make them a bit denser.
Dried Figs: Dried figs add natural sweetness and a chewy texture. If figs are hard to find, try using dates or raisins instead. They will offer a different flavor but still work well.
Butter: Unsalted butter contributes to the rich, buttery taste. You could substitute it with coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free option, though the texture might be slightly different.
Heavy Cream: This keeps the scones tender and moist. If you want to make it lighter, you can use half-and-half or a milk alternative; just know it may alter the final texture a bit.
How Do I Create Perfectly Flaky Scones?
Achieving that flaky texture is all about how you handle the dough. Here are some essential steps:
- Keep the butter cold. This is crucial for a flaky scone. If it starts melting, chill it in the fridge for a few minutes.
- Don’t overmix the dough. Mix just until combined; this keeps the scones light and tender.
- Pat the dough gently into a circle rather than rolling it out. Rolling can develop gluten, making scones tough.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the wedges without squishing the dough.
Following these steps will help you make light, fluffy scones every time!
Easy Homemade Fig Scones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 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 diced
- 3/4 cup dried figs, chopped
- 3/4 cup heavy cream (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 18-22 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes until you can enjoy delicious homemade fig scones!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper so that your scones won’t stick when they bake.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well mixed. This helps ensure even distribution of the baking powder for a nice rise.
3. Cut in the Butter:
Add the cold, diced butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Trying to keep it cold is key to flaky scones!
4. Add the Figs:
Gently stir in the chopped dried figs, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. This will add moisture and flavor to your scones.
6. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your scones light and airy!
7. Shape the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a couple of times to form a cohesive dough. Pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick, roughly 7-8 inches in diameter.
8. Cut and Arrange:
Using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, cut the dough into 8 wedges. Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
9. Brush and Bake:
Brush the tops of the scones with a little extra heavy cream to help them brown nicely. Now, pop them in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Enjoy them warm with butter or jam for a delightful treat!
Enjoy your homemade fig scones while they are fresh and warm!
Can I Use Fresh Figs Instead of Dried Figs?
Yes, you can use fresh figs, but you’ll need to adjust the quantity. Use about 1 cup of chopped fresh figs, as they have a higher moisture content. Be mindful that this may slightly change the texture of the scones, making them softer.
Can I Make These Scones Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter. For the heavy cream, use almond milk, coconut milk, or any dairy-free cream substitute. Keep in mind that this may alter the final texture a bit.
How Should I Store Leftover Scones?
Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To revive them, simply warm them up in the oven or microwave for a few seconds.
Can I Freeze the Dough for Later Use?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked scone dough! Shape the wedges, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time while still frozen.
