Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, chilled (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup fresh strawberries or grapes (for the bento box)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or a hard-boiled egg (for the bento box)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the scones from sticking and to ensure even browning.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Ensure there are no lumps so the leavening agent is distributed evenly throughout the flour.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work 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 scone.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. This liquid mixture will bind the dough and add richness to the pastry.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a fork until just moistened. Fold in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips. Be careful not to overmix, as this will make the scones tough.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently 3 or 4 times. Pat the dough into an 8-inch circle about 1 inch thick. Cut the circle into 8 wedges. Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet, brush the tops with a little extra heavy cream, and bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow the scones to cool completely on a wire rack. Place one or two scones in the main compartment of your bento box. Fill the smaller compartments with fresh fruit and a source of protein like yogurt or a hard-boiled egg to complete the meal.
- Cook Time: 38 minutes