Delicious Lemon Glazed Scones

There’s something undeniably uplifting about the bright, zesty flavor of lemon paired with a tender, flaky scone. These Delicious Lemon Glazed Scones are exactly what you need to brighten up your breakfast, afternoon tea, or anytime snack. With a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, the lemon glaze adds that extra touch of decadence that will make these scones your new favorite treat. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and yields consistently delightful results.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

These Delicious Lemon Glazed Scones stand out because of their light, flaky texture combined with the fresh, vibrant lemon flavor that’s not overwhelming but just right. Unlike many scone recipes that can be dry or crumbly, this one uses cold butter and just the right amount of milk to create a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. The lemon zest and juice in both the dough and glaze intensify the citrus notes, making every bite refreshing and flavorful.

If you love citrus desserts, you will adore how easily these scones come together and how versatile they are. They’re perfect for a weekend brunch, a picnic, or even as a gift to a friend. Plus, if you’re interested in exploring other lemon-inspired baked goods, you might enjoy trying Lemon Blueberry Cookies for a delightful twist on lemon treats.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 2/3 cup milk (whole or 2% works best)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 large lemon)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze)

How To Make Delicious Lemon Glazed Scones

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients create the perfect base for a fluffy scone.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for flaky scones, so don’t rush it!

Step 4: Add Lemon Zest, Juice, and Milk

In a small bowl, combine the milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Pour this liquid mixture into the flour and butter mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing; it’s okay if the dough is a bit shaggy.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times to bring it together. Pat the dough into a 7-inch circle about 3/4-inch thick. Using a sharp knife, cut the circle into 8 equal wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the scones for 18-20 minutes or until they are golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 7: Prepare the Lemon Glaze

While the scones are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 8: Glaze the Scones

Once the scones have cooled slightly but are still warm, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. The warmth will help the glaze set beautifully, creating a shiny, tangy topping that complements the scones perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using warm butter: Make sure your butter is cold. Warm butter will not create the flaky texture that makes scones so delightful.
• Overmixing the dough: Stir just until combined. Overworking the dough will develop gluten, resulting in tough scones.
• Skipping the glaze: The lemon glaze is what sets these scones apart. Don’t leave it out or use a glaze that’s too runny or too thick.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid dense scones.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Baking at too low a temperature will cause the scones to spread and lose their shape.

Variations and Customizations

• Add fresh berries: Fold in 1/2 cup of blueberries or raspberries into the dough for a burst of fruity flavor.
• Swap lemon for orange: Use orange zest and juice instead of lemon for a sweeter citrus profile.
• Drizzle with white chocolate: For an indulgent twist, drizzle melted white chocolate over the glaze once it sets.
• Add poppy seeds: Mix a tablespoon of poppy seeds into the dough for extra crunch and texture.
• Try savory add-ins: For a savory version, omit the sugar and lemon glaze and add herbs like thyme or rosemary with grated cheese.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover Delicious Lemon Glazed Scones, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them fresh longer, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to refresh their texture.

FAQ

Can I use buttermilk instead of milk?

Absolutely! Buttermilk adds a lovely tang and can make the scones even more tender. Reduce the lemon juice slightly if you use buttermilk to balance the acidity.

Can I make these scones dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the unsalted butter with a cold dairy-free butter alternative and use your favorite plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. The scones will still be deliciously tender.

How do I get my scones to be extra flaky?

The key is to keep your butter cold and cut it into small pieces that remain visible in the dough. Also, handle the dough gently and avoid overmixing to keep layers intact.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough, shape it into a circle, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, slice and bake as directed. This can help develop flavor and save time on baking day.

Conclusion

These Delicious Lemon Glazed Scones are a bright and buttery treat that effortlessly combines tangy lemon flavor with a tender, flaky crumb. Their simplicity and freshness make them a standout addition to any brunch table or snack platter. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why lemon scones are a beloved classic—and you might even be inspired to explore other citrus-inspired delights like Cranberry Orange Scones or Mini Lemon Curd Tartlets to keep the zest flowing in your kitchen. Happy baking!

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