Introduction

Rhubarb custard scones are a delightful fusion of tangy rhubarb and creamy custard, resulting in a unique and tasty treat. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, these scones are light, flaky, and packed with flavor. The balance of sweet and tart makes them an irresistible choice for pastry lovers.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Rhubarb – 1 cup, chopped
All-purpose flour – 2 cups
Granulated sugar – 1/4 cup
Baking powder – 1 tablespoon
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
Butter – 1/2 cup, chilled and cubed
Heavy cream – 1/2 cup
Egg – 1 large
Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
Custard powder – 2 tablespoons

Prep Time

The preparation time for these delicious rhubarb custard scones is approximately 15 minutes. This quick prep allows you to enjoy freshly baked scones in no time.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time for the scones is around 20 minutes. In total, you can expect to spend about 35 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields approximately 8 scones, making it a perfect batch for sharing or enjoying throughout the week.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the scones will bake evenly.

Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the scones from sticking.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.

Add Butter

Cut cold butter into small cubes and add it to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in Rhubarb

Gently fold the diced rhubarb into the flour and butter mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream and egg until combined.

Combine Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Form the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently a few times to bring it together. Flatten it into a circle about 1 inch thick.

Cut the Scones

Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice the dough into wedges (like a pizza) or use a round cutter to create individual scones.

Transfer to Baking Sheet

Place the cut scones onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.

Brush with Cream

Brush the tops of the scones with additional cream for a golden finish.

Bake the Scones

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool Before Serving

Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute frozen rhubarb if fresh is not available; just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture first.

Adjusting Sweetness

Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference for sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

These scones are great served warm with butter, clotted cream, or a dollop of jam.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.

Cook techniques

Mixing the Dough

To achieve a fluffy texture in your scones, mix the dry ingredients thoroughly before adding the wet ingredients. This ensures even distribution of the baking powder and sugar, resulting in a better rise during baking.

Cutting in Butter

When incorporating cold butter into the dry mixture, use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to break the butter into small pieces. This technique creates a flaky texture by allowing the butter to remain in small chunks.

Folding in Ingredients

Gently fold in the rhubarb with a spatula to avoid breaking it apart. This helps maintain the texture of the scones while ensuring the fruit is evenly distributed.

Chilling the Dough

Chill the scone dough before baking for about 30 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and texture by allowing the butter to firm up, which leads to a lighter scone.

Preheating the Oven

Always preheat the oven to the correct temperature before placing the scones inside. This helps them to rise properly and achieve a golden-brown crust.

FAQ

Can I use frozen rhubarb instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen rhubarb. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess liquid before incorporating it into the scone mixture.

How can I tell when the scones are done baking?

The scones are ready when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Can I replace the rhubarb with another fruit?

Absolutely! You can substitute rhubarb with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or apples, but adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the fruit.

What should I do if the dough is too sticky?

If the dough is too sticky to handle, sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface and your hands while shaping the scones.

How should I store leftover scones?

Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness. You can also freeze them for later use.

Conclusion

The rhubarb custard scones are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the creamy sweetness of custard. Their unique flavor profile makes them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack. Incorporating seasonal ingredients, these scones not only satisfy the taste buds but also bring a touch of elegance to any table setting.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Raspberry Almond Scones

Try substituting the rhubarb for fresh raspberries and adding a hint of almond extract for a fruity variation.

Lemon Blueberry Scones

Incorporate lemon zest and fresh blueberries for a refreshing and zesty twist on traditional scones.

Cranberry Orange Scones

Add dried cranberries and orange zest for a festive flavor that is particularly delightful during the holidays.

Chocolate Chip Scones

For a sweeter option, mix in chocolate chips to satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.

Spiced Apple Scones

Combine diced apples with cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm and comforting flavor reminiscent of fall.

Matcha Green Tea Scones

Introduce matcha powder for a unique twist, paired with white chocolate chips for sweetness.