Strawberry Brown Butter Scones

There's something magical about the moment butter transforms into liquid gold, releasing its nutty, caramelized aroma into your kitchen. These Strawberry Brown Butter Scones with Almond Slices capture that magic in every tender, flaky bite. Bursting with juicy fresh strawberries and crowned with toasted almond slices, they strike the perfect balance between rustic charm and elegant indulgence. Whether you're hosting a sophisticated teatime gathering or simply treating yourself to a cozy morning ritual, these scones bring warmth and joy to any occasion.

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The secret to these exceptional scones lies in the careful preparation of the brown butter. By cooking the butter until it reaches that perfect golden-brown stage, you unlock complex flavors that complement the sweetness of fresh strawberries beautifully. The cold cream and gentle handling ensure a tender, flaky texture that melts in your mouth, while the almond slices add both visual appeal and a satisfying crunch. This recipe honors traditional scone-making techniques while introducing bold, contemporary flavors that make each bite memorable.

Ingredients

• For the Scones:
• 115 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter
• 250 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 50 g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
• 120 ml (1/2 cup) cold heavy cream, plus more for brushing
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 120 g (1 cup) fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
• 40 g (1/3 cup) sliced almonds
• Topping:
• 2 tbsp sliced almonds
• 1 tbsp coarse sugar (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

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

Step 2: Brown the Butter

Place the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, swirling occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 5–7 minutes. Transfer the browned butter to a bowl and chill until just firm but still soft, about 15 minutes.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Cut in the Brown Butter

Add the chilled brown butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour over the flour mixture and gently mix until just combined.

Step 6: Add Strawberries and Almonds

Fold in the diced strawberries and 1/3 cup sliced almonds, taking care not to overmix.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 2.5 cm (1-inch) thick disk. Cut into 8 wedges.

Step 8: Top and Prepare for Baking

Transfer scones to the prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with a little cream, sprinkle with remaining sliced almonds and optional coarse sugar.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until scones are golden brown and cooked through. Let cool slightly before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For best results, use very cold ingredients and handle the dough gently to keep scones tender. The key to achieving that perfect flaky texture is minimal handling—overworking the dough will result in tough, dense scones. When browning the butter, watch it carefully during the final moments as it can quickly go from golden to burnt. The butter is ready when it smells nutty and has amber-colored specks at the bottom of the pan. Make sure to chill the browned butter until it firms up slightly but remains spreadable, as this helps create the ideal crumbly texture when cut into the flour.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Substitute strawberries with raspberries or blueberries if desired for a different flavor profile. Fresh or frozen berries work equally well, though if using frozen, do not thaw them first to prevent excess moisture. You can also experiment with other nuts such as pecans or hazelnuts in place of almonds. For a more indulgent version, add white chocolate chips along with the strawberries. If you prefer a lighter scone, substitute half of the heavy cream with buttermilk for a subtle tang that complements the brown butter beautifully.

Serviervorschläge

Serve warm with clotted cream or a drizzle of honey for an authentic British tea experience. These scones pair beautifully with a light-bodied tea or sparkling wine, making them perfect for brunch gatherings or afternoon celebrations. For a more decadent presentation, serve alongside lemon curd or strawberry preserves. Fresh whipped cream flavored with vanilla also makes an excellent accompaniment. The scones are best enjoyed the day they're baked, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days and gently rewarmed in the oven before serving.

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These Strawberry Brown Butter Scones with Almond Slices are more than just a breakfast pastry—they're a celebration of simple ingredients transformed through careful technique into something truly special. With 265 calories per scone and a balanced mix of 15g fat, 29g carbohydrates, and 5g protein, they offer both satisfaction and flavor in every bite. Whether you're a seasoned baker or trying scones for the first time, this medium-difficulty recipe rewards your effort with tender, buttery results that will have everyone asking for seconds. Gather your baking sheet, mixing bowls, and whisk, and let the aroma of brown butter and fresh strawberries fill your kitchen with pure comfort.