Walnut Scones

Looking for a delightful treat to enjoy with your morning coffee or afternoon tea? These Walnut Scones are the perfect combination of buttery, crumbly goodness with a hint of nutty flavor. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a cozy moment at home, these scones are sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into this recipe and get baking!

**Walnut Scones**

**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2/3 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)

**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the cold butter pieces to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs and there are no large butter pieces remaining.
4. Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. In a separate bowl, mix the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Gradually pour this mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently a few times until it holds together. Shape the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick.
7. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough circle into 8 equal wedges.
8. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Brush the tops of the scones with the beaten egg wash.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and cooked through.
10. Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.

These Walnut Scones are best enjoyed warm, either on their own or with a dollop of clotted cream and your favorite jam. The buttery crumble of the scone pairs perfectly with the crunchy texture of the walnuts, creating a delightful contrast of flavors. Prepare a fresh pot of tea or a steaming cup of coffee to accompany these scones for a truly indulgent experience. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or simply treating yourself to a quiet morning, these scones are sure to bring a touch of homemade comfort to your day. So, go ahead, whip up a batch of these Walnut Scones and savor the simple pleasure of a freshly baked treat!