Introduction to Chocolate Peppermint Scones
As the holiday season approaches, I find myself craving the cozy flavors of winter. That’s where these delightful Chocolate Peppermint Scones come in! They’re not just a treat; they’re a warm hug on a chilly day. Perfect for busy moms like us, these scones are quick to whip up and will impress your loved ones. Imagine serving them fresh from the oven, filling your home with that irresistible aroma of chocolate and peppermint. Trust me, these scones will become a festive favorite in your household!
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Peppermint Scones
These Chocolate Peppermint Scones are a dream come true for busy schedules. They come together in just 35 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute holiday treat. The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a flavor explosion that will delight your taste buds. Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve at breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for Chocolate Peppermint Scones
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Chocolate Peppermint Scones. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This is the base of your scones, providing structure and a light texture.
- Granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness that balances the rich chocolate and mint flavors.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the scones rise, giving them that fluffy texture we all love.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the overall flavor, making the sweet notes pop.
- Unsalted butter: Cold and cubed, it adds richness and flakiness to the scones.
- Chocolate chips: Choose semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a decadent touch that melts beautifully.
- Peppermint extract: This is the star ingredient, infusing your scones with that refreshing holiday flavor.
- Heavy cream: It adds moisture and richness, making the scones tender and delicious.
- Egg: This binds the ingredients together and adds a lovely golden color to the baked scones.
For an extra festive touch, consider adding crushed peppermint candies on top before baking. You can find all the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Scones
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these Chocolate Peppermint Scones! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of warm, delicious scones in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your scones bake evenly. A hot oven helps them rise beautifully, giving you that perfect fluffy texture. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step is essential for achieving the best texture. Whisking aerates the flour, ensuring your scones are light and tender. Make sure there are no lumps; a smooth mixture is key!
Step 3: Incorporate Butter
Next, add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This is where the magic happens! The cold butter creates those flaky layers we all love in scones. Don’t overmix; you want to see some small butter pieces for that perfect texture.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips
Now, it’s time to stir in the chocolate chips. I recommend using semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the peppermint. The chocolate will melt slightly during baking, creating gooey pockets of deliciousness in every bite. Yum!
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and peppermint extract. This mixture adds moisture and that delightful holiday flavor to your scones. Make sure everything is well combined; you want a smooth, creamy consistency.
Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough; this can lead to tough scones. You want to see a few floury bits; it’s okay! The dough will come together as you shape it.
Step 7: Shape the Dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it gently a few times. Shape it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Don’t worry about perfection; rustic is charming! The key is to handle the dough as little as possible to keep it tender.
Step 8: Cut into Wedges
Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into wedges. Aim for eight equal pieces for even baking. If you prefer, you can use a round cutter for a more traditional scone shape. Just remember, the more you handle the dough, the tougher it may become!
Step 9: Bake the Scones
Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden brown. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!
Tips for Success
- Use cold butter for flaky scones; it makes all the difference!
- Don’t overmix the dough; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top before baking.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary.
- Serve warm for the best taste; they’re delightful fresh out of the oven!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl for dry ingredients and a smaller one for wet ingredients.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing; a fork works in a pinch!
- Pastry cutter or fork: For incorporating butter; your hands can do the job too.
- Baking sheet: A standard one will do; line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Sharp knife: For cutting the scones; a pizza cutter can also work!
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
- Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based cream for a vegan-friendly version.
- Mint Chocolate Chip: Add a handful of mint chocolate chips for an extra burst of minty flavor.
- Orange Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist that complements the chocolate and peppermint.
- Nutty Addition: Toss in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Chocolate Peppermint Scones with a warm cup of cocoa or peppermint tea for a cozy treat.
- Serve them alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a spread of butter for extra indulgence.
- For a festive touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
FAQs about Chocolate Peppermint Scones
Can I make Chocolate Peppermint Scones ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just shape the scones and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This way, you can enjoy fresh scones with minimal effort!
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. Just keep in mind that the scones may be slightly less rich. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or a plant-based milk alternative mixed with a bit of oil.
How should I store leftover scones?
Store any leftover Chocolate Peppermint Scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
Can I add other flavors to the scones?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different extracts like vanilla or almond. You can also mix in dried fruits or nuts for added texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless!
What’s the best way to reheat scones?
The best way to reheat scones is in the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and warm the scones for about 5-10 minutes. This will help restore their flaky texture and delicious flavor!
Final Thoughts
Making Chocolate Peppermint Scones is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The joy of pulling a warm batch from the oven fills your home with festive cheer. Each bite is a delightful blend of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you enjoy them at breakfast or as a sweet afternoon treat, these scones bring a touch of magic to your holiday season. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the holiday spirit, and let these scones become a cherished tradition in your home. Happy baking!
Print
Chocolate Peppermint Scones: A Festive Treat You’ll Love!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously festive chocolate peppermint scones perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in chocolate chips.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream, egg, and peppermint extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently.
- Shape the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick and cut into wedges.
- Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add crushed peppermint candies on top before baking.
- Serve warm with butter or cream.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Chocolate Peppermint Scones, Holiday Treats, Festive Baking



