The scent of freshly baked goodies wafts through the air, teasing my senses and pulling me into the kitchen. The holidays are a magical time, and what better way to start Christmas morning than with a batch of delectable Christmas Morning Scones? These Vanilla Bean, Nutmeg, and Rosemary treats are not only easy to whip up but also a feast for the eyes and soul. Imagine serving warm, golden scones that are crisp on the outside yet soft inside, bringing a touch of elegance to your festive breakfast table. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, allowing you to enjoy their delightful aroma any time during the holiday season. Are you ready to elevate your holiday breakfasts and fill your home with warmth and cheer? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why Are These Scones a Must-Try?
Irresistible Aroma: As these scones bake, the warm scent of nutmeg and rosemary will fill your kitchen, creating a festive atmosphere that’s perfect for Christmas morning.
Easily Customizable: Feel free to switch up the flavors! Try making a Christmas Eve Scone using zesty citrus or spiced apples; the possibilities are endless.
Time-Saving Delight: Make the dough in advance and simply pop them in the oven on Christmas morning. This way, you’ll have more time to enjoy the holiday magic with your loved ones.
Crowd-Pleaser: Their scrumptious blend of sweet and savory flavors guarantees that everyone at the table will be reaching for seconds.
Perfect Pairings: Serve with clotted cream or jam for an elegant touch, or enjoy them plain with a cup of hot cocoa. They can elevate your breakfast spread just like my homemade Gingerbread Cupcakes Christmas.
These scones truly embody the spirit of the season and will leave you eager for every festive meal to come!
Christmas Morning Scones Ingredients
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For the Scones
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and a tender crumb; substitute with a gluten-free blend if desired.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; brown sugar can give a richer flavor profile.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for fluffiness; always check for freshness for the best rise.
• Salt – Enhances other flavors; use sea salt or kosher salt for subtle variation.
• Fresh-Grated Nutmeg – Offers a warm, aromatic flavor; ground nutmeg can be used in a pinch.
• Unsweetened Dried Cranberries – Adds tartness and chewiness; sweetened cranberries can enhance sweetness.
• Fresh Minced Rosemary – Contributes a unique piney aroma; thyme can be a lovely alternative herb.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; plant-based butter is a great dairy-free substitute.
• Half and Half or Heavy Cream – Provides fat for a rich texture; whole milk works for a lighter option.
• Vanilla Bean Paste – Imparts intense vanilla flavor with pretty specks; vanilla extract can also be used.
• Whole Milk – Brush over the tops before baking to enhance color; almond milk is a suitable dairy-free alternative. -
For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Creates a sweet topping for finishing; swap with maple syrup for a healthier option.
• Water – Mixes with the powdered sugar to achieve desired glaze consistency.
• Nutmeg – The secret touch in the glaze brings a delightful festive note; just a sprinkle will do!
These Christmas Morning Scones are sure to add warmth and flavor to your holiday celebrations!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Morning Scones
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your Christmas Morning Scones will bake evenly and achieve that golden-brown perfection. While the oven heats, you can gather and prepare your ingredients, setting the stage for a delightful baking experience.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, freshly grated nutmeg, dried cranberries, and minced rosemary. Whisk together until well-blended, allowing the warm spices to mingle. This step ensures that every bite of your Christmas Morning Scones will be bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Cut in Butter
Using a fork or pastry cutter, cut in the unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs; this should take about 2-3 minutes. Look for pea-sized bits of butter mixed in with the dry ingredients, as this will help create a tender texture in your scones.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Gently stir in the half and half along with the vanilla bean paste, mixing just until everything comes together. Avoid overmixing; the goal is to maintain the scones’ tender crumb. The dough will be slightly sticky, which is perfect for yielding fluffy Christmas Morning Scones.
Step 5: Shape the Scones
Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it. Gently pat the dough into a rectangle about 1-inch thick. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into triangles or desired shapes, then carefully transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 6: Bake the Scones
Brush the tops of the scones with whole milk to give them a lovely, glossy finish. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The enticing aroma of Christmas Morning Scones will fill your kitchen!
Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While the scones bake, mix together powdered sugar, a pinch of nutmeg, and water in a small bowl to create your glaze. Whisk until you achieve your desired consistency—slightly runny yet thick enough to drizzle. This sweet glaze will add a festive touch to your warm scones.
Step 8: Glaze the Scones
Once the scones have baked and cooled for a few minutes, drizzle the prepared glaze over the tops. Allow them to cool slightly more before serving. The glaze will add a delightful sweetness, balancing perfectly with the spices in your Christmas Morning Scones.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Morning Scones
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Christmas Morning Scones fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature, stored in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Fridge: If you need to store them longer, keep the scones in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked dough in individual portions for up to 3 months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for deliciously fresh scones.
Reheating: To reheat scones, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 8-10 minutes. This will keep them soft and bring back that delightful aroma of your Christmas Morning Scones!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Morning Scones are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the holiday chaos! You can prepare the scone dough up to 3 days in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This way, you can bake them fresh on Christmas morning, ensuring they remain just as delicious and tender. If you prefer, you can also freeze the shaped scones for up to 1 month; just bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. When it’s time to enjoy, just brush with milk and pop them in the oven for a delightful festive treat that will fill your home with warmth and cheer!
Christmas Morning Scones: Flavor Twists Await!
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these delightful Christmas Morning Scones to suit your taste buds!
- Vegan Replacement: Swap unsalted butter for plant-based butter and use dairy-free milk for a wholesome vegan treat.
- Sweet Delight: Replace dried cranberries with diced apples or figs for a sweeter, juicy burst in every bite.
- Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one orange or lemon into the dough for a refreshing, zesty twist that brightens up the spices.
- Spice Variation: Instead of nutmeg, consider using cinnamon or a mix of ginger and cloves for a warm, festive flavor.
- Herb Change: Use minced thyme or dill instead of rosemary for a unique, yet delightful flavor twist that pairs lovely with the sweetness.
- Almond Joy: Fold in some slivered almonds for added crunch and a nutty flavor. They’re fantastic when combined with cranberries or figs!
- Spiced Glaze: Enhance your glaze by adding a dash of maple syrup or vanilla extract for extra depth of flavor that will make everyone ask for your secret!
- Cheesy Goodness: Consider adding in some cheddar cheese or crumbled goat cheese for a rich, savory spin that complements the sweetness beautifully.
If you find yourself craving more delightful recipes, don’t miss my Easy and Fluffy Breakfast Rolls Recipe that pairs perfectly with these scones for a festive brunch!
Expert Tips for Christmas Morning Scones
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Check Freshness: Always use fresh baking powder to ensure your Christmas Morning Scones rise beautifully. Old powder can lead to dense scones.
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Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the dough; this keeps the scones tender. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
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Proper Cooling: Allow scones to cool slightly before glazing. This prevents the glaze from melting and helps it adhere better.
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Chill Dough for Flavor: If time permits, chill your dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This enhances the flavors and improves the texture.
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Freeze for Later: These scones freeze beautifully! Shape and freeze unbaked scones, then bake from frozen, adjusting the time as needed for fresh treats during the holidays.
What to Serve with Christmas Morning Scones
These delightful scones are not just a treat on their own; enhancing your holiday breakfast spread makes them even more memorable!
- Clotted Cream: This rich, velvety cream adds an indulgent touch, perfectly complementing the warm spices in the scones.
- Homemade Jam: Sweet and tangy jams, like cranberry or apricot, bring a fruity balance that brightens each bite.
- Spiced Orange Mimosa: A light, bubbly drink infused with orange juice and a hint of cinnamon brings a festive cheer to your morning gathering.
- Herbal Tea: A calming chamomile or mint tea pairs marvelously, adding warmth and comfort to your holiday breakfast feast.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh, seasonal fruits provide a refreshing contrast to the buttery scones, adding a burst of bright flavor and color to the table.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and berries, this treat offers crunch and creaminess, making for a delightful combination alongside the scones.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzle some over the scones for a sweet twist, enhancing their sugary glaze and creating an irresistible harmony of flavors.
- Eggnog: For a cozy winter drink, serve eggnog warmed or chilled; its rich, spiced flavor pairs beautifully with your festive scones.
- Chocolate Ganache: For an indulgent dessert option, consider serving a warm chocolate ganache for dipping or drizzling, creating a sweet harmony with the herbs in the scones.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Spreading a light layer on top adds a creamy tang that beautifully balances the scones’ sweetness and spice.
Christmas Morning Scones Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cranberries?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use unsweetened dried cranberries. They should be plump and have a slightly chewy texture. If you find sweetened cranberries, they can also work well to add extra sweetness to your scones. Just ensure they’re not overly sticky.
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How should I store my Christmas Morning Scones?
Great question! Store your Christmas Morning Scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them fresh. If you’re looking to store them longer, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Just remember, they taste best when enjoyed fresh!
Can I freeze the scone dough for later use?
Yes, you can! To freeze, shape your scone dough into individual portions or triangles and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flash freeze them for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer the frozen scones into an airtight freezer bag. They’ll last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What should I do if my scone dough is too sticky?
No worries! If your scone dough becomes too sticky, lightly flour your working surface and your hands while shaping them. Alternatively, you can sprinkle a little flour directly onto the dough while mixing. Just be careful not to add too much flour as this can lead to denser scones; the aim is to maintain a soft and tender texture.
Are these scones pet-friendly?
Unfortunately, these scones are not ideal for pets, particularly dogs. They contain ingredients like nutmeg and raisins (if using sweetened cranberries) that can be harmful to them. Always make sure to keep your baked goods safely away from your furry friends!
Can I make these scones dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make your Christmas Morning Scones dairy-free, simply substitute unsalted butter for a plant-based butter and use almond milk or another dairy-free milk in place of whole milk and half and half. These swaps will still yield deliciously tender and fluffy scones!
Christmas Morning Scones: Warm Spices for Holiday Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, freshly grated nutmeg, dried cranberries, and minced rosemary. Whisk together until well-blended.
- Using a fork or pastry cutter, cut in the unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gently stir in the half and half along with the vanilla bean paste, mixing until just combined.
- Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it. Pat the dough into a rectangle about 1-inch thick and cut into triangles.
- Brush the tops of the scones with whole milk and bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the scones bake, mix together powdered sugar, a pinch of nutmeg, and water to create the glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm scones after they have cooled slightly.
