As the aroma of freshly baked scones wafts through my kitchen, I can't help but feel a surge of joy. These Peppermint White Chocolate Scones aren’t just a delightful treat; they’re the perfect way to elevate your morning or afternoon tea. With just 35 minutes of your time, you’ll have tender, fluffy scones that are a breeze to whip up and guaranteed to impress friends and family alike. The added bonus? They’re wonderfully festive, making them a seasonal crowd-pleaser that adds a sprinkle of holiday magic to any gathering. Imagine serving these deliciously drizzled delights at your next brunch, or even enjoying one with a cozy cup of cocoa as the winter chill sets in. Ready to spark some sweet inspiration in your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why Are These Scones Irresistible?
Deliciously Flavored: The unique blend of peppermint and white chocolate transforms ordinary scones into a festive treat that tantalizes your taste buds.
Quick and Easy: In just 35 minutes, you can create freshly baked scones that look and taste like they're from a bakery—perfect for anyone with a busy schedule.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether at brunch or dessert, they bring smiles to the table, making them ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Seasonal Appeal: Their cheerful peppermint twist captures the holiday spirit, adding a special touch to your festivities.
Versatile Enjoyment: Serve them warm with cocoa, or enjoy them plain; these scones fit any occasion!
Peppermint White Chocolate Scone Ingredients
For the Scone Base
• All-purpose flour – this forms the backbone of the scones, providing structure and fluffiness.
• Sugar – adds sweetness, balancing the richness of the white chocolate.
• Baking powder – this gives scones their lift, making them airy and light.
• Salt – enhances the flavors and keeps them well-rounded.
• Cold butter – creates that tender, flaky texture we all love in scones.
• Half-and-half – adds creaminess to the dough for a rich taste.
• Vanilla extract – infuses warmth and depth of flavor.
• Peppermint extract – brings the festive essence, making these Peppermint White Chocolate Scones truly special.
For the Topping
• Granulated sugar – for sprinkling, adds a delightful crunch and extra sweetness on top.
• Crushed peppermint candies – a colorful and festive touch that adds a minty crunch.
• White chocolate wafers – perfect for drizzling, these add a luxurious finish to your scones.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This is an essential first step to ensure your Peppermint White Chocolate Scones will bake perfectly without burning.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 5 tablespoons of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt until well combined. This mixture is the foundation of your scones, providing structure and flavor. You should see a light, fluffy consistency, ready for the buttery goodness to come.
Step 3: Cut in Butter
Using a pastry blender or two knives, cut in 6 tablespoons of cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with small pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. This process creates the signature flaky texture of scones. Set the bowl aside, and it's time to add some moisture to this dry mixture, bringing it to life.
Step 4: Mix in Wet Ingredients
Pour in ⅔ cup of half-and-half, ¼ cup of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until just combined, ensuring the dough is slightly sticky yet cohesive. Avoid overmixing; you want tender scones! This step infuses your Peppermint White Chocolate Scones with delightful flavor.
Step 5: Knead the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, turn out the dough and gently knead it 5 to 10 times until it comes together. Pat it into a round disc about 1 inch thick. This brief kneading helps to develop some structure while maintaining the scone’s tenderness. Let’s cut those delectable shapes!
Step 6: Cut the Scones
Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 even wedges, spacing them evenly on your prepared baking sheet. For a rustic look, don’t worry about making them perfect. These wedges will transform into delightful Peppermint White Chocolate Scones with a golden crust as they bake.
Step 7: Add a Topping
Brush the tops of the scones with a little half-and-half, then sprinkle granulated sugar generously over them. This will create a delightful sweet crust, adding both texture and flavor to your finished scones.
Step 8: Bake the Scones
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and fragrant. You'll know they are done when their tops are nicely browned, and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Decorate
Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. As they cool, melt some white chocolate wafers for drizzling. Once slightly cooled, drizzle the melted chocolate over each scone and top with crushed peppermint candies for that festive finish.
Expert Tips for Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
Chill Your Butter: Using cold butter is crucial for flaky scones. It creates steam during baking, resulting in that delightful texture we all love.
Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to tough scones. The dough should be slightly sticky for perfect Peppermint White Chocolate Scones.
Adjust for Altitude: If you’re baking at a high elevation, you may need to slightly reduce sugar and baking powder to prevent overspreading of your scones.
Use Fresh Peppermint: For an extra burst of flavor, consider using crushed fresh peppermint candies instead of store-bought. It adds a homemade touch!
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your scones toward the end of the baking time; they should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch.
Let Cool: Allowing your scones to cool slightly before drizzling with white chocolate ensures the chocolate doesn't melt completely away, creating a beautiful presentation.
What to Serve with Peppermint White Chocolate Scones?
As the delightful scent of your freshly baked scones fills the air, consider these perfect pairings to elevate your serving experience.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: Nothing enhances the festive flavors like a rich, velvety hot chocolate—its warmth complements the scones perfectly.
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Sparkling Water with Mint: Refreshing and light, sparkling water infused with mint adds a bubbly contrast to the sweet scones, making each bite even more enjoyable.
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Fruit Salad Medley: A vibrant mix of citrus and berries brightens up the table, balancing the sweetness of the peppermint and white chocolate beautifully.
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Ginger Tea: The warming spices in ginger tea create a cozy atmosphere, perfectly matching the comforting flavors of the scones for a delightful pairing.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a luscious texture that melts away in your mouth, elevating the scone’s festive charm.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: Drizzling warm maple syrup over your scones introduces a lovely caramel note that harmonizes with the peppermint, creating a mouthwatering experience.
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Holiday Fruit Punch: A sweet and tangy holiday punch adds a cheerful touch to your spread, with its fruity notes accentuating the festive peppermint flavors.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For those with an extra sweet tooth, pairing these with peppermint chocolate chip cookies can create a delightful dessert platter.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy cheeses like brie or mascarpone offers a rich counterpart to the sweet scones, providing a lovely contrast of flavors and textures.
Peppermint White Chocolate Scones Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful scones and make them your own!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or almond milk instead of half-and-half, and swap butter for vegan butter. These adjustments maintain the scone's richness while keeping it plant-based.
- Extra Minty: Boost the peppermint flavor by adding a bit of crushed peppermint leaves to the dough, enhancing that refreshing taste. Just remember, a little goes a long way!
- Chocolate Chip: Mix in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips alongside the white chocolate drizzle for a delightful chocolatey surprise. It's a chocolate lover's dream come true!
- Cranberry Twist: Incorporate dried cranberries or cherries into the dough for a tart contrast that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
- Spiced Up: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry mixture for a warm, spicy flavor to complement the peppermint. Picture the cozy aroma wafting through your kitchen!
- Holiday Icing: Instead of drizzling white chocolate, top your cooled scones with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a beautiful finish that adds sweetness without the chocolate.
- Savory Variation: Shift gears entirely by omitting the sugar and peppermint, adding crumbled feta or goat cheese with fresh herbs for a unique savory scone. Perfect for brunch with a twist!
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
Room Temperature: Keep uneaten scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps retain their soft texture and delicious flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer to extend their freshness, store the scones in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap them tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the scones in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: Warm scones in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-8 minutes, or until heated through. This will revive that fresh-baked taste for your Peppermint White Chocolate Scones!
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint White Chocolate Scones are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the scone dough up to 24 hours in advance, simply mixing all the dry ingredients, cutting in the cold butter, and adding the wet ingredients as usual. After gently kneading, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. To maintain their lovely texture, avoid rolling out and cutting the dough until you're ready to bake. When you're set to enjoy these festive scones, cut the dough into wedges, brush with half-and-half, sprinkle with sugar, and bake as directed. You'll have fresh, warm scones with minimal effort!
Peppermint White Chocolate Scones Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right peppermint extract?
To ensure your Peppermint White Chocolate Scones have that festive flavor, opt for high-quality peppermint extract. Look for pure extracts rather than imitation ones, as they will yield a more vibrant and authentic taste. I often recommend brands that list only peppermint oil and alcohol as ingredients for the best quality!
What’s the best way to store leftover scones?
Keep those delicious scones fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their life, move them to the fridge, where they can last up to 5 days. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to maintain their softness—they deserve to stay cozy!
Can I freeze Peppermint White Chocolate Scones?
Absolutely! To freeze your Peppermint White Chocolate Scones, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid (about 2 hours), transfer them to a zip-top bag and store them for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-8 minutes.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky or too dry?
If your dough ends up too sticky, sprinkle in a little flour—about a tablespoon at a time—until it reaches that perfect consistency. If it’s too dry, add in a splash of half-and-half until it comes together. Remember, a little patience goes a long way, and adjusting the texture as needed is a common part of the baking journey!
Are these scones suitable for pets or anyone with allergies?
These Peppermint White Chocolate Scones contain ingredients such as sugar, butter, and baking powder, which may not be suitable for pets. For those with food allergies, keep in mind that they contain gluten (from all-purpose flour) and dairy. To make them gluten-free, consider using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and for dairy-free, substitute the butter with plant-based alternatives and use almond milk or oat milk instead of half-and-half.
What’s the best way to tell when my scones are done baking?
You'll know your scones are perfect when they turn a beautiful golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking, as they can go from perfect to overdone quickly. Enjoy that delicious, aromatic moment when they fill your kitchen!
Indulgent Peppermint White Chocolate Scones to Sweeten Your Day
Equipment
- Oven
- mixing bowl
- baking sheet
- pastry blender
- parchment paper
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
For the Scone Base
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons cold butter cut into small pieces
- ⅔ cup half-and-half cold
- ¼ cup vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
For the Topping
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar for sprinkling
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies
- 1 cup white chocolate wafers for drizzling
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 5 tablespoons of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt until well combined.
- Cut in 6 tablespoons of cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Mix in ⅔ cup of half-and-half, ¼ cup of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract until just combined.
- Gently knead the dough 5 to 10 times on a floured surface and shape it into a round disc about 1 inch thick.
- Cut the dough into 8 wedges and space them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with half-and-half and sprinkle granulated sugar on top.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
- Cool on a wire rack, then drizzle melted white chocolate and top with crushed peppermint candies.
