Lemon Cream Cheese Scones

There’s something undeniably special about the first bite of a freshly baked Lemon Cream Cheese Scones. I remember the first time I made these delightful treats; the bright aroma of lemon filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. It was a sunny spring morning, and I was craving something sweet yet tangy to accompany my coffee. As I mixed the ingredients, I could already envision myself enjoying these scones with a dollop of cream cheese on top, savoring each bite. They turned out beautifully golden, and the glaze added just the right touch of sweetness. It’s amazing how a simple recipe can transform an ordinary day into a delightful experience.

Whenever I make Lemon Cream Cheese Scones, I feel like I’m inviting a little bit of sunshine into my home. The combination of creamy cheese and zesty lemon offers a perfect balance of flavors. These scones are not just a treat; they’re an experience to share, whether it’s with family during brunch or with friends over afternoon tea. There’s something comforting about baking and sharing food, and these scones are a testament to that joy.

One of my favorite moments is watching people take their first bite and see their eyes light up with delight. The texture is fluffy yet crumbly, making them oh-so-satisfying. Each scone is like a little hug on a plate. With a little bit of practice and love, you too can master the art of making these scones, and I promise they’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

Shopping List for Lemon Cream Cheese Scones

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for creating delicious Lemon Cream Cheese Scones. Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the brightness of the lemons to the richness of the cream cheese, these ingredients work together harmoniously to create a delightful treat.

• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with caramelization for a lovely golden crust.
• Lemon Zest: Provides intense lemon flavor that enhances the overall brightness of the scone.
• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of any scone, giving it structure and texture.
• Baking Powder: The leavening agent that helps the scones rise, resulting in a fluffy interior.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Cream Cheese: Adds richness and moisture, making the scones tender and delightful.
• Unsalted Butter: Contributes to the scone’s rich flavor and flaky texture.
• Eggs: Provide structure and moisture, helping to bind the ingredients together.
• Whole Milk: Adds richness and helps create a soft dough.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Enhances the lemon flavor and adds acidity to balance the sweetness.
• Powdered Sugar: Used for the glaze, adding sweetness and a smooth texture.

Lemon Cream Cheese Scones Instructions

Making these Lemon Cream Cheese Scones is a simple process that brings joy with every step. You’ll love how quickly they come together, and the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake will be irresistible!

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). While the oven is heating, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set it aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine granulated sugar and lemon zest. Use your fingers to rub the mixture together until fragrant, releasing the oils from the zest. This step infuses the sugar with a vibrant lemon flavor that will shine in your scones.
3. Add all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to the bowl. Whisk everything together until well combined, ensuring there are no lumps. Set this dry mixture aside.
4. In a food processor, combine the cold cream cheese, unsalted butter, and eggs. Pulse the mixture together about 6 to 8 times until the ingredients are blended but still slightly chunky. This will create a rich and creamy mixture that adds tenderness to your scones.
5. Next, scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the dry ingredients you set aside earlier, along with whole milk and fresh lemon juice. Pulse the food processor an additional 3 times. Scrape down the bowl again, and pulse a few more times until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix; you want a slightly sticky dough.
6. Remove the dough from the food processor and place it on a lightly floured surface. Gently fold the dough over itself a few times, just enough to bring it together and smooth it out. Be cautious not to overwork the dough, as this can make your scones tough.
7. Divide the dough into 2 equal pieces. Form each piece into a disk that’s about 6 inches in diameter. Using a bench scraper or sharp knife, cut each disk into triangles. This creates those classic scone shapes that are perfect for serving.
8. Arrange the cut scones on your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each for expansion. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until they are beautifully risen and golden brown.
9. Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. As they cool, you can prepare the glaze.
10. To make the lemon glaze, combine powdered sugar and lemon juice in a medium bowl. Whisk until it’s smooth and pourable.
11. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled scones. This final touch adds sweetness and a beautiful presentation. Serve and enjoy your freshly made Lemon Cream Cheese Scones.

How to Switch It Up

Experimenting with your Lemon Cream Cheese Scones can lead to delightful variations! Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:

• Add Berries: Mix in some fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the dough for added texture.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different citrus zest such as lime or orange for a unique flavor profile.
• Glaze Options: Try using a different type of glaze, like a chocolate drizzle or an almond glaze for a creative touch.
• Spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to your scones.
• Chocolate Chips: Swirl in some dark chocolate chips for a decadent dessert version.

What Goes Well With This Lemon Cream Cheese Scones

Serving your Lemon Cream Cheese Scones is just as delightful as making them. Here are some ideas to enhance your experience:

• With Tea or Coffee: These scones pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. They make for the perfect afternoon snack.
• Brunch Delight: Serve them up during brunch alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and jams for a beautiful spread.
• Picnic Treat: Pack them for a picnic or outdoor gathering; they transport well and are sure to impress.
• Seasonal Events: These scones are perfect for spring celebrations, including Easter brunch or Mother’s Day gatherings.
• Storage Tips: Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for later enjoyment.
• Garnish Options: Consider serving with a dollop of whipped cream or clotted cream for added indulgence.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Lemon Cream Cheese Scones are truly a delightful treat that marries the tangy brightness of lemon with the creamy richness of cheese, resulting in a perfectly balanced flavor. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s simple enough for any skill level and sure to impress your family and friends. You’ll love the warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake, and there’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm scone with a cup of tea or coffee.

Lemon Cream Cheese Scones

The perfect combination of sweet and tangy, Lemon Cream Cheese Scones are fluffy, rich, and drizzled with a luscious lemon glaze. Ideal for brunch or an afternoon treat, these scones will satisfy your cravings and are easy to make. Try them today!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 245

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar
• 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest
• 3 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 tablespoon Baking Powder
• 3/4 teaspoon Salt
• 4 ounces Cream Cheese cold and cut into pieces
• 6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter cold and cut into pieces
• 2 large Eggs cold
• 1/3 cup Whole Milk cold
• 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice
• 1 cup Powdered Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest
• 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Whisk
• Food Processor

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). While the oven is heating, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set it aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine granulated sugar and lemon zest. Use your fingers to rub the mixture together until fragrant, releasing the oils from the zest. This step infuses the sugar with a vibrant lemon flavor that will shine in your scones.
3. Add all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to the bowl. Whisk everything together until well combined, ensuring there are no lumps. Set this dry mixture aside.
4. In a food processor, combine the cold cream cheese, unsalted butter, and eggs. Pulse the mixture together about 6 to 8 times until the ingredients are blended but still slightly chunky. This will create a rich and creamy mixture that adds tenderness to your scones.
5. Next, scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the dry ingredients you set aside earlier, along with whole milk and fresh lemon juice. Pulse the food processor an additional 3 times. Scrape down the bowl again, and pulse a few more times until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix; you want a slightly sticky dough.
6. Remove the dough from the food processor and place it on a lightly floured surface. Gently fold the dough over itself a few times, just enough to bring it together and smooth it out. Be cautious not to overwork the dough, as this can make your scones tough.
7. Divide the dough into 2 equal pieces. Form each piece into a disk that’s about 6 inches in diameter. Using a bench scraper or sharp knife, cut each disk into triangles. This creates those classic scone shapes that are perfect for serving.
8. Arrange the cut scones on your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each for expansion. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until they are beautifully risen and golden brown.
9. Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. As they cool, you can prepare the glaze.
10. To make the lemon glaze, combine powdered sugar and lemon juice in a medium bowl. Whisk until it’s smooth and pourable.
11. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled scones. This final touch adds sweetness and a beautiful presentation. Serve and enjoy your freshly made Lemon Cream Cheese Scones.

Notes

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold ingredients helps create a flakier scone. Ensure your butter and cream cheese are straight from the fridge.
• Don’t Overmix: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough scones. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
• Chill Your Dough: If time allows, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can enhance the scone's flavor and texture.
• Customize Your Add-Ins: Feel free to add in blueberries, cranberries, or even nuts for extra flavor and texture.

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Meet Blaire Holloway

Taking traditional feast recipes and giving them a modern, vibrant twist is what drives me. I want to keep your menu exciting and fresh. I handled the cooking and photography for this recipe, working to bridge the gap between classic comfort and contemporary flavor for your table.