Mini Strawberry Shortcake Scones for Valentine’s Day

Ah, Valentine’s Day! A day filled with love, chocolates, and heart-shaped everything. This year, I’ve got something a little extra special that’ll make your loved ones swoon—a batch of Mini Strawberry Shortcake Scones. These delightful treats remind me of sunny picnics with friends, where laughter and sweet bites filled the air. I remember the first time I made them; the whole house smelled like buttery goodness, and my friends couldn’t get enough.

Not only are these scones adorably mini and perfect for sharing, but they’re also incredibly easy to whip up. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like telling the person you adore that you made something just for them. So let’s dive into these scrumptious scones that are sure to win over hearts.

What’s in Mini Strawberry Shortcake Scones?

All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of any scone, it gives them their lovely structure. I love using unbleached flour for a more wholesome taste.

Baking Powder: This leavening agent is what makes our scones rise and become fluffy. Always check the expiration date to ensure they work their magic!

Salt: Just a tiny pinch, but it really elevates the sweetness of the scones.

Sugar: Sweetness is essential! I usually opt for granulated sugar, but feel free to experiment with coconut or brown sugar for a twist.

Unsalted Butter: Cold butter is a must to achieve that flaky texture. I can’t stress enough how important it is to keep it cold until you mix it into the flour!

Heavy Cream: This ingredient makes the scones rich and creamy. You could substitute with half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

Fresh Strawberries: The star of the show! Sweet, juicy strawberries add freshness and a pop of color. Make sure you choose ripe ones for the best flavor.

Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavor beautifully, giving the scones a nice warmth.

Is Mini Strawberry Shortcake Scones Good for You?

Oh, the proverbial question! So let’s break it down.

All-Purpose Flour: While not the most nutrient-dense flour option, it provides the base for hearty carbohydrates you need for energy.

Strawberries: These vibrant berries are rich in Vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. So go ahead, feel good about loading these scones with fruit!

Butter and Cream: While used in moderation, these provide a delightful richness and flavor. Just keep in mind the importance of balance; enjoy your treat but be mindful of other fats in your daily meals—they can add up!

The takeaway here? Enjoy your sweet scones in moderation as part of a balanced diet—homemade treats can definitely be a part of a healthy lifestyle!

Ingredients

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 3/4 cup heavy cream (plus more for brushing)
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

This recipe makes about 12 mini scones.

How to Make Mini Strawberry Shortcake Scones?

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze!

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.

3. Add the cold, cubed butter. Using your hands or a pastry cutter, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Stir in the chopped strawberries gently, so they don’t get mushy.

5. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined. The dough will be slightly sticky; that’s perfect!

6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and pat it into an about 1-inch thick circle. Use a floured biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out small rounds and place them on your prepared baking sheet.

7. Brush the tops with a little heavy cream for that golden, shiny finish.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

9. Once done, let them cool slightly before serving.

Sweet Suggestions to Take Them Over the Top!

– Serve with a drizzle of honey or a light glaze of powdered sugar mixed with a bit of water or milk.
– Pair these scones with whipped cream for those extra indulgent moments.
– If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can make a berry compote to drizzle on top.

Each bite is like a hug for your taste buds! Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these Mini Strawberry Shortcake Scones will be a lovely addition to your Valentine’s Day celebration.

I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and watch your loved ones light up with delight! Let me know how they turn out or if you have any fun twist ideas—I’d love to hear from you! Happy baking!