Cherry-Chip Oat Scones are a delightful treat that combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the sweetness of cherries and chocolate chips. These scones are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, offering a satisfying texture and delicious flavor. They are quick to make and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Ingredients List

For the Scones:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup milk (or buttermilk)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup dried cherries (or fresh, pitted cherries, chopped)
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)

For Topping (Optional):

• 1 tablespoon milk (for brushing)
• Extra sugar for sprinkling

Timing

Preparing Cherry-Chip Oat Scones takes about 15 minutes for prep and 15-20 minutes for baking, totaling approximately 30-35 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, rolled oats, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

1. Add Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture.
2. Cut in Butter: Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Mix Together: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
2. Fold in Add-ins: Gently fold in the dried cherries and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Shape the Scones

1. Form Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together.
2. Shape the Dough: Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges (like a pizza) or use a biscuit cutter to make rounds.

Step 7: Bake the Scones

1. Transfer to Baking Sheet: Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Brush with Milk: If desired, brush the tops with a little milk and sprinkle with extra sugar.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

1. Cool: Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.
2. Enjoy: Serve warm or at room temperature, plain or with butter.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Cherry-Chip Oat Scones (per scone, assuming 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Scone
Calories	180
Protein	3g
Fat	8g
Carbohydrates	26g
Fiber	2g

Tips for Customization

• Fruit Variations: Substitute dried cherries with other dried fruits like cranberries, blueberries, or raisins.
• Nut Options: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth.

Serving Suggestions

Cherry-Chip Oat Scones pair well with:

• A cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
• A drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Dough: Mix just until combined to ensure tender scones; overmixing can lead to tough texture.
2. Using Warm Butter: Ensure the butter is cold for flaky scones.
3. Not Preheating the Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to achieve the best rise and color.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Cherry-Chip Oat Scones can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the scones individually wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

In about 30-35 minutes, you can enjoy delicious Cherry-Chip Oat Scones that are perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. These scones are easy to make and offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures!

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and shape the scones, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze the scones before baking?

Absolutely! You can freeze the shaped scones and bake them directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What if I want to make them healthier?

You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar slightly for a healthier option.

Can I customize the recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to adjust the ingredients and flavors to suit your preferences.