Earl Grey Scones with Lavender Glaze

For a unique and memorable scone recipe, look no further than these flaky, buttery Earl Grey scones with a fragrant lavender glaze. Delicious on their own with a nice cup of hot tea, they’re not too sweet to spread with clotted cream or homemade lemon curd! You can make these start to finish in about 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These scones come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for unexpected guests or an afternoon treat.
• Unique Flavor: The combination of Earl Grey tea and lavender creates a sophisticated taste that elevates ordinary scones to something special.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them plain, with clotted cream, or paired with lemon curd for a delightful twist at breakfast or tea time.
• Impressive Presentation: The lavender glaze adds a beautiful touch, making these scones perfect for entertaining or special occasions.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this delightful recipe.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience and ensure you don’t miss any steps.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Speeds up the mixing process, ensuring a smooth and well-blended dough.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients separately before merging them.
• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for even baking; make sure to line it for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups flour
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 bags Earl Grey tea leaves (about 1 tbsp)

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (diced)

Additional Ingredients for Glaze

• 2 teaspoons culinary lavender
• 2 tablespoons boiling water
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons heavy cream
• 2 drops red and 1 drop blue food coloring (optional)

How to Make Earl Grey Scones with Lavender Glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Mixture

In the bowl of a food processor:
Mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and Earl Grey tea leaves.
Pulse until blended.

Step 3: Incorporate Butter

Add cold butter cubes:
Pulse until the mixture resembles damp sand.
Ensure some butter pieces remain about the size of a pea. If you don’t have a food processor, use a handheld pastry blender or your fingertips to cut in the butter.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl or liquid measuring cup:
1. Beat together the egg, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
2. Pour this mixture into the flour mixture and mix until just combined. Avoid overworking the dough to keep your scones tender.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

On a lightly floured surface:
Pat the mixture into a ball.
Shape it into a 7-inch square.
Cut it into a 9-square grid, then cut each square diagonally to form 18 triangle-shaped mini scones. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Brush the tops of the scones:
Use additional heavy cream to brush on top.
Sprinkle liberally with coarse sanding sugar.

Step 7: Bake

Place in the oven:
Bake for 12–17 minutes until you see golden brown around the bottoms of the scones.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Earl Grey scones with lavender glaze! Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s an afternoon tea party or just a cozy morning at home.

How to Serve Earl Grey Scones with Lavender Glaze

Earl Grey scones with lavender glaze are a delightful treat that can elevate any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon tea or a festive gathering, serving these scones with the right accompaniments can enhance their flavors and presentation.

Pair with Tea

• Earl Grey Tea: Complement the scones with a classic cup of Earl Grey tea. The bergamot flavor will harmonize beautifully.
• Green Tea: A soothing cup of green tea can balance the sweetness of the scones and add a refreshing note.

Add Spreads

• Clotted Cream: Spread rich clotted cream on warm scones for a luxurious texture and taste.
• Homemade Lemon Curd: The tangy flavor of lemon curd pairs wonderfully with the floral notes in the scones.

Garnish Options

• Fresh Berries: Serve with fresh strawberries or blueberries for a pop of color and natural sweetness.
• Edible Flowers: Decorate your serving plate with edible flowers to enhance the aesthetic appeal.

How to Perfect Earl Grey Scones with Lavender Glaze

Making perfect Earl Grey scones is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your scones turn out flaky and delicious.

• Keep Ingredients Cold: Use cold butter and heavy cream for a flakier texture. This helps create air pockets in the dough.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid tough scones. Overworking the dough can lead to dense results.
• Chill Before Baking: Chill the shaped scones for 10-15 minutes before baking. This helps them retain their shape and rise better in the oven.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality Earl Grey tea and culinary lavender for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients make a significant difference.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for extra texture and taste. Just be sure not to overload the dough.

Best Side Dishes for Earl Grey Scones with Lavender Glaze

Pairing side dishes with your Earl Grey scones can create a well-rounded meal or snack experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and complements the scone’s flavors beautifully.
2. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an earthy balance against the sweet glaze.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for added texture and nutrition alongside your scones.
4. Savory Quiche: A light quiche filled with vegetables is an excellent way to provide savory contrast to the sweet scone.
5. Vegetable Crudités: Crisp, fresh vegetables served with a light dip offer crunch and freshness that pair well with tea time treats.
6. Mini Sandwiches: Simple cucumber or smoked salmon sandwiches can add heartiness, making for a more filling meal option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Earl Grey scones with lavender glaze can be simple, but beginners often make mistakes that affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overworking the dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough scones. Mix until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Ignoring butter temperature: Using warm butter instead of cold will change the texture. Ensure your butter is cold for flaky layers.
• Skipping the cream brush: Not brushing the tops with cream can lead to dull scones. This step adds a beautiful golden finish.
• Not measuring ingredients precisely: Improper measurements can ruin your scone texture. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy when possible.
• Baking on an unprepared sheet: If you bake directly on a sheet without parchment, scones may stick. Always line your baking sheet for easy removal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover scones in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Earl Grey Scones with Lavender Glaze

• Place cooled scones in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Earl Grey Scones with Lavender Glaze

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place scones on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual scones on high for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Cover scones in a pan over low heat for about 5 minutes, checking occasionally to prevent burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Earl Grey scones with lavender glaze.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Earl Grey Scones with Lavender Glaze?

You can enhance the flavor by adding extra tea leaves or infusing the cream with more lavender before mixing it into the dough.

Can I use different types of tea for this recipe?

Yes! While Earl Grey is traditional, you can experiment with other flavored teas like chai or jasmine for unique variations.

How should I serve Earl Grey Scones with Lavender Glaze?

These scones are perfect with clotted cream, lemon curd, or even fresh fruit jam alongside your favorite tea.

What can I substitute if I don’t have culinary lavender?

If you cannot find culinary lavender, you may use dried chamomile or omit it entirely; however, this will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Are there any gluten-free options for Earl Grey Scones with Lavender Glaze?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Adjust liquid ingredients as needed based on your mix.

Final Thoughts

Earl Grey scones with lavender glaze make a delightful treat that pairs beautifully with afternoon tea or breakfast. Their flaky texture and subtle floral notes make them versatile enough for various occasions. Feel free to customize these scones by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even different teas for a unique twist. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delicious scones at home!