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There is nothing quite like a warm, tender scone to start your morning or accompany your afternoon tea. These Double Chocolate Chip Scones take that experience to a whole new level. Rich, crumbly, and packed with decadent chocolate flavor, they are a true treat for any chocolate lover who appreciates a bakery-style snack at home.

Unlike traditional scones that can sometimes be dry, these are incredibly moist thanks to the addition of heavy cream and a touch of cocoa powder. They strike the perfect balance between a biscuit and a cake, making them an ideal indulgence for breakfast, a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or a simple dessert.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Medium

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 395 kcal
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 21g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 210mg

Why Make This Double Chocolate Chip Scones

If you are looking for a recipe that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to pull off, this is it. The combination of a deep cocoa base and melty chocolate chips creates a double layer of chocolate that satisfies even the strongest cravings. They look beautiful on a brunch table and fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma while they bake.

One of the best things about these scones is their texture. The cold butter creates flaky layers, while the cream keeps the center soft and tender. Plus, they aren’t overly sweet, which allows the rich chocolate flavor to really shine through without being overwhelming, making them perfect for pairing with coffee or tea.

How to Make Double Chocolate Chip Scones

Making bakery-quality scones at home is all about handling the dough with care and keeping your ingredients cold. Follow these simple steps to achieve that perfect crumbly texture and rich chocolate finish every time.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
2/3 cup heavy cream (plus a little extra for brushing)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Ensure the cocoa powder is well-distributed and there are no large lumps.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. This is the secret to a flaky texture!

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and the egg is fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a fork or spatula until just moistened. Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, being careful not to overwork the dough.

Step 6: Shape and Cut

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it very gently just 3 or 4 times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife to cut the disc into 8 even wedges.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. Brush the tops lightly with a little extra heavy cream. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the edges are set. Let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack.

How to Serve Double Chocolate Chip Scones

These scones are at their absolute best when served warm, shortly after they come out of the oven. You can enjoy them plain to appreciate the deep chocolate flavor, or spread a little salted butter on them for a savory contrast. For a truly decadent treat, serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh strawberries and raspberries.

How to Store Double Chocolate Chip Scones

To keep your scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These also freeze beautifully; simply wrap each cooled scone tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F to restore that freshly-baked crunch.

Expert Tips for Perfect Double Chocolate Chip Scones

The most important rule for scones is to use cold ingredients. Make sure your butter and cream are chilled right until the moment you use them. If your kitchen is very warm, you can even chill the flour and cocoa powder. Also, avoid over-mixing the dough; once the flour disappears, stop stirring. A few lumps are perfectly fine and help create a lighter scone.

Delicious Variations

Feel free to get creative with your mix-ins! Swap the semi-sweet chips for white chocolate chips for a beautiful color contrast, or use dark chocolate chunks for a more intense flavor. You can also add a half-cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch. For a holiday twist, add a teaspoon of peppermint extract instead of vanilla.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are my scones hard and dense?

This usually happens if the dough was overworked. Over-mixing develops the gluten in the flour, which makes the scones tough. Handle the dough as little as possible for the best results.

Q: Can I use buttermilk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, buttermilk works well and adds a slight tang. However, because buttermilk is thinner than heavy cream, you may need to use slightly less to ensure the dough doesn’t become too sticky.

Q: Do I have to use cold butter?

Yes! Cold butter is essential. When the cold bits of butter hit the hot oven, they create steam, which is what gives scones their characteristic lift and flaky layers.

Q: Can I make these smaller?

Absolutely. You can cut the dough into smaller circles or more wedges to make mini-scones. Just be sure to reduce the baking time to about 10-12 minutes.

Q: How do I know when chocolate scones are done?

Because they are dark in color, you can’t rely on browning. Instead, touch the top of a scone; it should feel firm and set rather than soft or doughy, and the edges should look dry.

Conclusion

Double Chocolate Chip Scones are the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves the combination of a tender pastry and rich cocoa. They are simple to prepare and far more delicious than anything you would find at a coffee shop. Give this recipe a try for your next breakfast or special occasion, and enjoy the blissful taste of homemade chocolate goodness!