Easy Lemon Raspberry Scones Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that feels like a sunny burst of freshness with each bite, you’ve just found your new favorite. These Easy Lemon Raspberry Scones combine zesty lemon brightness with juicy raspberries folded right into tender, flaky scones. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up, they’re surprisingly straightforward to make yet impressively delicious. You’ll love how the sweetness and tartness play off each other in a soft, buttery crumb that practically melts in your mouth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting great results starts with simple, high-quality ingredients that each play a specific role, making these scones a crowd-pleaser. From the rich butter to fresh raspberries, everything works together harmoniously to create that irresistible flavor and texture.

• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds moisture and richness, contributing to the tender crumb.
• 8 tablespoons butter: Melted butter enriches the dough, creating a soft, flaky scone.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the scones their structure and heartiness.
• 6 tablespoons sugar: Sweetens just enough to balance the tart lemons and raspberries.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: The key leavening agent that helps scones rise perfectly.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for lift and a slight browning touch.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and counterbalances the sweetness.
• Zest of 1 medium-size lemon: Delivers a fresh citrus aroma and zing throughout.
• 1/2 cup fresh raspberries: Bursts of juicy fruit add color, tartness, and delightful texture.

How to Make Easy Lemon Raspberry Scones

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it’s hot enough to crisp the scones beautifully. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper so your scones slide off easily once baked. Chill the heavy cream in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes to help with the dough’s texture, and melt the butter so it’s ready to mix in smoothly.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, lemon zest, and salt in a medium bowl. This step is crucial because evenly combining the dry components helps the scones rise consistently and infuses every bite with the bright lemon flavor. The lemon zest especially adds that irresistibly fresh, citrusy note that lifts the whole recipe.

Step 3: Combine Cream and Butter

Take the chilled heavy cream and pour in the melted butter, stirring gently just until the butter forms little clumps. This small detail might seem trivial, but it’s what gives the dough a perfect moistness and richness without becoming greasy or heavy.

Step 4: Bring the Dough Together

Add the butter and cream mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until the flour is just incorporated; don’t overmix here! Overworking the dough can make scones tough rather than soft and tender, so a light touch yields the best texture. Then, gently fold in the halved fresh raspberries, being careful to keep them mostly intact for those juicy surprises in each bite.

Step 5: Chill and Bake

Using a spoon or scoop, drop mounds of the batter onto your parchment-lined baking sheet. Pop the tray in the fridge for at least 15 minutes—this resting time helps the scones hold their shape and bake up fluffy and golden. Finally, bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until the tops have a lovely golden hue. Let them cool on a wire rack before slicing, and if you’re feeling fancy, place a raspberry atop each slice for a pretty, inviting touch.

How to Serve Easy Lemon Raspberry Scones

Garnishes

To elevate these scones even more, consider dusting them lightly with powdered sugar or drizzling a bit of lemon glaze on top. A dollop of clotted cream or whipped cream adds a luxurious, creamy contrast that partners beautifully with the zesty raspberries.

Side Dishes

Simple is often best—serve these scones alongside fresh fruit salad or a cup of hot tea for a classic afternoon break. For a heartier spread, add scrambled eggs or smoked salmon, balancing the sweet-tart flavors for a well-rounded brunch experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking scones in a tiered tray for a charming tea party display or slice them in half and sandwich in lemon curd and whipped cream for a playful twist. These scones are versatile enough to be the star at any gathering or a cozy weekend treat all on their own.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover scones tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps their texture soft and fresh, perfect for a quick snack or breakfast.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze scones individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months, and you’ll always have your Easy Lemon Raspberry Scones on hand whenever a craving strikes.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or room-temperature scones in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5-7 minutes until warm and crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them gummy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

While fresh raspberries yield the best texture and appearance, frozen raspberries can work too. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid extra moisture making the dough soggy.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream, full-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt can be substituted for a tangy twist, but this might slightly alter the texture and flavor.

How do I make scones less dry?

The key is not overmixing the dough and ensuring enough liquid fat, like butter and cream, is included. Also, chilling the dough before baking helps retain moisture.

Can I add other fruits or flavorings?

Absolutely! Blueberries, chopped strawberries, or even dried cranberries would work well. You can also experiment with different zest like orange or add spices like cinnamon for a unique spin.

Are these scones sweet enough for dessert?

Yes, they have a pleasant balance of sweetness and tartness, making them a lovely light dessert, especially when paired with whipped cream or a lemon glaze.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to bake these Easy Lemon Raspberry Scones as I am to share them! They’re truly a joy to make and to eat, bringing a little burst of sunshine to any table. Give this recipe a try, and soon you’ll be reaching for scone-making as your go-to for delightful, homemade treats.