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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. As they cool, you can prepare the glaze.
To make the lemon glaze, combine powdered sugar and lemon juice in a medium bowl. Whisk until it’s smooth and pourable.
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.
