Chocolate Chip Scones are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate chip cookies with the light, flaky texture of scones. They are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re enjoying a cozy breakfast at home, hosting a brunch with friends, or treating yourself to dessert. With their buttery goodness and sweet chocolate bursts, these scones are sure to impress everyone at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those busy mornings.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy Chocolate Chip Scones for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack any time of day.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate or freeze it for later baking.
- Customizable Flavors: Feel free to swap in different types of chocolate chips or add nuts for extra crunch.
- Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch and share them with friends and family; they make great gifts too!
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making these delicious scones, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Baking pans
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients without spills.
- Pastry cutter or fork: Helps to properly cut in butter, achieving that flaky texture.
- Baking pans: Provide even heat distribution for perfectly baked scones.
Ingredients
For the Scone Base
- 3 cups (381 grams) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (50 grams) lightly packed light brown sugar
- 1 ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 10-ounce bag (283 grams) mini semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 ½ sticks (170 grams) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 cup (237 grams) buttermilk, cold
- 2 large eggs, divided
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For Garnish
- Coarse sugar, optional for topping
How to Make Chocolate Chip Scones
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Adjust the oven rack to the center position and preheat to 400°F. Line two baking pans with parchment paper.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugars, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and chocolate chips.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold butter cubes to the mixture. Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut until the butter resembles large peas.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the cold buttermilk, one egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Make a well in the center of the dry mixture and pour in the liquid mixture. Stir gently until just combined; avoid over-mixing.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Transfer dough to a floured surface. Shape it into a rectangle. Fold it like a letter twice to create layers without overworking it.
Step 7: Cut into Wedges
Divide the dough into two equal parts. Press each part into a round about 1 ½ inches tall. Cut each round into six wedges and place them on prepared pans.
Step 8: Chill if Needed
If at any point your dough feels warm, place it in the freezer for about 10-20 minutes before continuing.
Step 9: Make Ahead Option
You can refrigerate unbaked scones overnight or seal them in an airtight container and freeze for up to one month. If baking from frozen, add an additional two minutes to your baking time.
Step 10: Prepare for Baking
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining egg with one teaspoon of water. Brush this mixture over each scone and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
Step 11: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Step 12: Cool & Serve
Let them sit for about 30-60 minutes before serving. These scones are best enjoyed warm but can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Scones
Chocolate Chip Scones are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert, these scones will surely impress your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions:
With Fresh Fruit
- Berries – Serve with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate.
- Sliced Bananas – Pair with sliced bananas for a naturally sweet addition that complements the scone perfectly.
With Cream and Jam
- Clotted Cream – Spread clotted cream on warm scones for a luxurious touch that enhances their flavor.
- Fruit Jam – Offer a variety of jams like strawberry or raspberry for guests to customize their scone experience.
As Part of a Brunch Spread
- Coffee and Tea – Provide freshly brewed coffee or tea to accompany your scones for a cozy brunch setting.
- Savory Items – Include some savory options like quiche or mini sandwiches for a balanced brunch menu.
How to Perfect Chocolate Chip Scones
Creating the perfect Chocolate Chip Scones is an art that requires attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to ensure your scones turn out delicious every time:
- Use Cold Ingredients – Cold butter and buttermilk help create flaky layers in your scones.
- Don’t Overmix – Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough scones.
- Chill Your Dough – If the dough gets warm, chill it in the freezer briefly to maintain its structure during baking.
- Cut Evenly – Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut uniform wedges for even baking.
- Brush with Egg Wash – An egg wash gives your scones a beautiful golden color and shine.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Chip Scones
While Chocolate Chip Scones are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
- Greek Yogurt – Creamy yogurt adds tanginess and pairs well with sweet scones.
- Fruit Salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruit offers freshness and balance.
- Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and make for a hearty brunch option.
- Crispy Bacon – The salty crunch of bacon contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the scone.
- Cheese Platter – Include assorted cheeses like brie or cheddar for a savory touch alongside sweet treats.
- Herbal Tea – A soothing cup of herbal tea complements the flavors in the scone while adding warmth to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chocolate Chip Scones can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some tips to ensure your scones turn out delicious every time.
- Overmixing the dough: This can make your scones tough instead of flaky. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
- Using warm ingredients: Warm butter or buttermilk can lead to flat scones. Always use cold ingredients to maintain the right consistency.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can dry out your scones. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
- Skipping the chill time: If your dough gets warm, it won’t rise properly in the oven. Chill the dough if it becomes too soft during handling.
- Baking on a cold pan: A cold baking sheet can affect how evenly your scones bake. Always preheat your pans with parchment paper before placing the scones.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chocolate Chip Scones in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Chocolate Chip Scones
- Place unbaked scones on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 1 month without losing quality.
Reheating Chocolate Chip Scones
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat one scone at a time on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Chocolate Chip Scones from scratch?
To make Chocolate Chip Scones from scratch, combine flour, sugars, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and chocolate chips. Cut in cold butter, add wet ingredients, and mix until just combined.
Can I freeze Chocolate Chip Scones?
Yes! You can freeze unbaked Chocolate Chip Scones for up to 1 month. Just bake them straight from the freezer by adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What makes these Chocolate Chip Scones so special?
These scones combine the rich flavors of chocolate chip cookies with a flaky, buttery texture that is perfect for breakfast or dessert.
How do I store leftover Chocolate Chip Scones?
Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Final Thoughts
Chocolate Chip Scones are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy them as part of breakfast or as an afternoon treat, this recipe is sure to impress. Feel free to customize your scones by adding nuts, dried fruits, or varying the type of chocolate chips used. Give this recipe a try and savor every bite!
Chocolate Chip Scones
Indulge in the heavenly delight of Chocolate Chip Scones, a perfect blend of rich chocolate chip cookie flavor and the light, flaky texture of traditional scones. Ideal for any occasion—be it a cozy breakfast at home, an elegant brunch with friends, or a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings—these scones are sure to impress. With buttery goodness and bursts of sweet chocolate in every bite, they are versatile enough to be enjoyed anytime.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 scones 1x
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 1 ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 10 ounces mini semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 ½ sticks unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 1 cup cold buttermilk
- 2 large eggs (divided)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line two baking pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugars, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and chocolate chips.
- Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles large peas.
- In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, one egg, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
- Shape the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle and fold it like a letter twice.
- Divide dough into two rounds about 1½ inches tall and cut each round into six wedges.
- Chill if necessary before brushing with an egg wash (remaining egg mixed with one teaspoon of water) and sprinkling with coarse sugar.
- Bake for about 18-20 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 248
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 143mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 34mg
Keywords: Use cold butter and buttermilk for flaky layers. Customize by adding different types of chocolate chips or nuts for added texture.
