Chocolate Chip Pecan Scones

Scones are one of those delightful baked goods that can turn an ordinary morning into something special. Imagine biting into a warm, flaky Chocolate Chip Pecan Scone, the rich chocolate melting in your mouth, paired with the crunch of toasted pecans. These scones don’t just bring comfort; they’re a celebration of flavors and textures! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon tea, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Reasons to Love Chocolate Chip Pecan Scones

There are many reasons to adore these Chocolate Chip Pecan Scones, and here are just a few:

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet chocolate complements the nutty pecans beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying treat.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.
• Perfect Texture: The combination of cold butter and heavy cream ensures a tender, flaky scone that isn’t dry.
• Versatile: Enjoy them plain, with butter, or alongside your favorite jam or cream.
• Great for Sharing: These scones are perfect for gatherings, making them an ideal choice for brunch with friends or family.

What to Buy

Before you dive into baking, make sure you have these essential ingredients on hand:

• 2 and 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter, VERY cold and cut into tiny pieces
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 12-ounce bag of chocolate chips
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 teaspoon milk or water (for egg wash)
• 2 tablespoons confectioners sugar, for sprinkling

Cook’s Kit

Having the right tools can make the baking process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients.
• Whisk: To ensure everything is well blended.
• Pastry Cutter or Fork: For cutting in the cold butter.
• Baking Sheet: To bake your scones on.
• Parchment Paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Cooling Rack: To let the scones cool properly after baking.

From Start to Finish: Chocolate Chip Pecan Scones

Ready to make your own Chocolate Chip Pecan Scones? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the scones.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or fork, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chips and Pecans

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut the circle into 8 wedges or use a round cutter for individual scones.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking

Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and milk or water. Brush this mixture over the tops of the scones for a beautiful golden finish.

Step 9: Bake

Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Let the scones cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar for that extra touch of sweetness!

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

If you have specific dietary needs, here are some helpful substitutions:

• Gluten-Free Flour: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
• Nut-Free: Omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
• Egg-Free: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) to replace the egg.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

To ensure your scones turn out perfectly, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

• Using Warm Butter: Make sure your butter is very cold; this is key to flaky scones.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mix just until combined to avoid tough scones.
• Skipping the Egg Wash: This gives your scones a lovely golden color and shine.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.

Save It for Later

If you find yourself with leftover Chocolate Chip Pecan Scones, here’s how to store them:

Store the cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warm.

Your Top Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time, shape it into scones, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Can I use different nuts or chocolate?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds, and you can also swap in white chocolate or dark chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.

Why are my scones dense?

Dense scones often result from overmixing the dough or using warm butter. Be sure to mix just until combined and use cold butter for the best texture.

How do I know when my scones are done?

Your scones are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. They should also feel firm to the touch.

You Might Also Like

• Blueberry Scones
• Almond Croissants
• Banana Bread
• Cheddar Scones

In Closing

Baking these Chocolate Chip Pecan Scones is not just about creating a delicious treat; it’s also about the experience of mixing, shaping, and sharing with loved ones. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or with a cup of tea later in the day, these scones are bound to bring smiles to faces. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s create some magic in the kitchen! Enjoy your baking adventure!