Name: Lemon Cheese Scones
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-487687H54M31S
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 20 g lemon zest (about 2 lemons); 320 g cake flour; 7 g baking powder; 50 g milk; 75 g granulated sugar; 60 g unsalted butter; 240 g cream cheese; 30 g granulated sugar; 10 g lemon zest (about 1 lemon); 10 g lemon juice (half of a lemon)

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Lemon Cheese Scones are the perfect balance of zesty citrus and creamy cheese, all nestled inside a light, buttery scone. With a layer of lemon-infused cream cheese at the heart of each scone, this treat is a refreshing twist on a classic favorite. They are easy to make and ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack with your favorite tea or coffee.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Lemon Cheese Scones are bursting with fresh lemon flavor. The combination of tangy lemon zest in both the dough and the cream cheese filling makes each bite a burst of citrus goodness. The scone dough itself is light and flaky, with the cream cheese providing a creamy, slightly sweet filling. These scones are perfect for anyone who loves the bright taste of lemon paired with the richness of cream cheese, all wrapped up in a buttery scone.

Ingredients

For the Scone:

20 g lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
320 g cake flour
7 g baking powder
50 g milk
75 g granulated sugar
60 g unsalted butter

For the Lemon Cheese:

240 g cream cheese
30 g granulated sugar
10 g lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
10 g lemon juice (half of a lemon)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Dough:

Mix the dry ingredients: In a clean bowl, combine the lemon zest, sugar, baking powder, cake flour, and butter. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture resembles a crumbly texture.
Form the dough: Add the milk and mix until the dough begins to come together. Divide the dough into two parts, stack them, and flatten. Repeat the stacking and flattening process 5-6 times to create layers. This will help create a flakier texture.
Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for 1 hour to allow it to firm up.

Prepare the Lemon Cheese Filling:

Mix the cream cheese: In a clean bowl, beat together the lemon zest, lemon juice, and cream cheese until smooth and even. Chill in the fridge for 1 hour to firm up.

Assemble the Scones:

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 170°C (338°F).
Shape the scones: After the dough has chilled, divide it into 10 equal pieces and flatten each piece into a disc.
Stuff the scones: Divide the chilled cream cheese mixture into 10 equal portions and roll each portion into a ball. Wrap each flattened dough piece around about 3/4 of the cream cheese ball, sealing it tightly around the filling.
Bake: Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool and serve: Let the scones cool slightly on a rack before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Variations

Add blueberries: Add a handful of fresh or frozen blueberries to the dough for a fruity twist.
Glaze: For extra sweetness, drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the top of the scones once they’ve cooled.
Gluten-Free: Replace the cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend if you need a gluten-free version of these scones.
Herb-infused: Add a little fresh thyme or rosemary to the dough for a herby undertone that complements the lemon.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freezing: These scones freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular flour instead of cake flour?

While cake flour gives these scones a lighter, more tender texture, you can substitute with all-purpose flour. The scones might be slightly denser, but they will still taste delicious.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and the cream cheese filling ahead of time, then assemble and bake the scones when you’re ready to serve them.

3. Can I use other types of cheese for the filling?

While cream cheese is the best choice for its smooth texture, you can experiment with mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a slightly different flavor.

4. How do I know when the scones are done?

The scones are done when they are golden brown on the top and slightly firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of one to check that the dough is fully cooked.

5. Can I add more lemon zest to the dough?

Yes, if you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, feel free to increase the amount of lemon zest in the dough.

6. Can I use a stand mixer for the dough?

Yes, a stand mixer with a paddle attachment can be used to mix the dough. Just be careful not to overmix, as this could result in tougher scones.

7. Can I make these scones without the cream cheese filling?

Absolutely! You can skip the cream cheese filling and simply shape the dough into scones. You could even add a little lemon zest or lemon juice to the dough to keep the citrus flavor.

8. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon?

Fresh lemon juice is always best for flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be substituted in a pinch. Keep in mind the taste might be slightly different.

9. How can I make these scones sweeter?

If you prefer sweeter scones, you can add an extra tablespoon or two of sugar to the dough or drizzle a glaze on top after baking.

10. Can I add nuts to the scones?

Yes, adding chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds to the dough will give the scones a lovely crunch and additional flavor.

Conclusion

Lemon Cheese Scones are a delightful treat that combines the refreshing zing of lemon with a rich, creamy cheese filling. Whether enjoyed as a snack or served with tea, these scones are sure to become a favorite. With their tender, flaky texture and bright citrus flavor, they offer the perfect balance of sweetness and tang in every bite. Enjoy these delicious homemade scones with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra indulgent touch!