Introduction to Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
With the holiday fast approaching, nothing, they say, is as tantalizing as the scent of just-baked Peppermint White Chocolate Scones. If you are anything like me, your days are full with work, kids and all the preparations to be festive. And these scones pack more than just a yummy punch; surprisingly, they’re easy to make too! Think of handing out warm, crumbly scones to your most loved ones as you create warm moments…Any family breakfast or gathering with friends over brunch will be greeted with smiles because of these scones.
Why You’ll Love This Peppermint White Chocolate Scone Recipe
You’ll adore how easy these Peppermint White Chocolate Scones come together! In just 35 minutes, you can treat your family to something truly special. The taste is a heavenly blend—sweet white chocolate paired with the refreshing bite of peppermint. Plus, they make your kitchen smell like a holiday dream! Perfect for busy mornings or festive gatherings, this recipe is your secret weapon for delighting everyone around the table.
Ingredients for Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
Gathering your ingredients can be half the fun of baking these delicious Peppermint White Chocolate Scones. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: A staple for scones, providing structure and a light texture.
- Granulated sugar: This sweetener not only adds flavor but helps with browning.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent is crucial for fluffy scones, giving them a nice rise.
- Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, making each bite a little more special.
- Peppermint extract: The star flavor that brings holiday cheer; adjust to your taste!
- Chilled butter: Helps create that flaky texture we all love in a scone. The colder, the better!
- Half-and-half: This creamy addition keeps the scones moist and tender.
- White chocolate melting wafers: A decadent topping that melts beautifully, adding sweetness.
- Mini peppermint candy canes: Crushed for a festive crunch and visually appealing garnish.
If you’re looking for options, you can use whole wheat flour for a hearty twist or substitute the half-and-half with milk for a lighter version. You’ll find the specific ingredient measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for your printing convenience!
How to Make Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
Preheat and Prepare the Oven
First things first: preheating your oven is crucial. Set your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is key to those perfectly baked Peppermint White Chocolate Scones. A hot oven ensures they rise beautifully and develop that lovely golden color. While it’s heating up, you can line your baking sheet with parchment paper—an easy cleanup step that makes all the difference later. Trust me, impatience here can lead to uneven baking, so let’s avoid that!
Mix Dry Ingredients
Next, let’s whip together our dry ingredients for these delightful scones. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Whisking these together well is essential; it helps incorporate air, which will lighten the scones. Aim for a fine and even blend. This little moment of mixing is an easy way to make sure your scones fluff up nicely—so don’t rush through it! Your hard work will pay off in delicious bites.
Incorporate Butter
Now, it’s time to cut in the butter. Using a pastry blender or a couple of knives, slice into the chilled butter and flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. You want little pea-sized pieces of butter throughout; this is what gives your scones that crispy exterior. Don’t overmix, though! Once you see those crumbs forming, it’s time to move on. Trust the process—you’ll know you’re ready when it looks just right!
Add the Wet Ingredients
With your dry mixture ready, let’s bring in the wet ingredients! Pour in the half-and-half, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Gently stir until everything is just moistened. Be careful not to overmix, as we want to maintain that fluffy texture. The goal here is a slightly sticky dough, full of flavor and holiday cheer. That fragrance of peppermint wafting up is just a delicious preview of what’s to come!
Form the Dough
Now comes the fun part—forming the dough! On a lightly floured surface, gently knead the dough just 5 to 10 times. This step is important for bringing everything together. Pat it down into a round disc about 1 inch thick. Avoid too much pressure; we don’t want the scones to be tough. Think of it like a cozy gathering, bringing those ingredients to a warm embrace without crushing them!
Shape and Cut the Scones
Now that your dough is formed, it’s time to cut those scones! Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice the dough into 8 wedges. Try to keep them evenly sized so they bake uniformly. Arrange the wedges on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between them. This space allows them the room to puff and rise. Visualize them all golden and inviting, just waiting to be enjoyed!
Brush and Bake
Before sending your scones into the oven, let’s brush the tops with a bit of half-and-half. This will help achieve that beautiful golden glaze we all adore. Then sprinkle a little granulated sugar over the top for an extra sweet finish. Bake in your preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as ovens can be quirky! They’re done when they have that gorgeous golden color and a delightful aroma fills the air.
Cool and Drizzle
Once baked, let your scones cool on a wire rack—this step prevents them from getting soggy. After they’ve cooled slightly, it’s time for the fun final touch! Melt the white chocolate wafers according to package directions, and using a teaspoon, drizzle the melted chocolate over each scone. Top them off with those vibrant crushed peppermint candies for a splash of color and crunch. The finish brings everything together, presenting a beautiful treat for your loved ones!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your butter is chilled for flaky scones.
- Don’t overmix the dough; a few gentle folds are all you need.
- Use a sharp knife for clean cuts when shaping the scones.
- Experiment with the amount of peppermint extract to suit your taste.
- Enjoy the scones warm for the best texture and flavor!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients; any size works.
- Whisk: For blending dry ingredients; a fork can also do the job.
- Pastry blender: Ideal for cutting in butter; two knives can work too.
- Baking sheet: A standard one will suffice; line with parchment for easy cleanup.
- Wire rack: Great for cooling scones; a plate can be a temporary stand.
Variations of Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
- Chocolate Chip Mint Scones: Replace white chocolate with dark chocolate chips for a rich twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for accommodating dietary needs.
- Vegan Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk in place of half-and-half for a dairy-free delight.
- Nutty Flavor: Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture and earthy taste.
- Fruit Infusion: Incorporate dried cranberries or cherries for a pop of tartness that complements the sweetness perfectly.
Serving Suggestions for Your Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
- Pair with Hot Cocoa: Enjoy with a warm cup of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream for a cozy treat.
- Festive Fruit Platter: Serve alongside a vibrant fruit platter to balance the sweetness with fresh flavors.
- Elegant Presentation: Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with mint leaves for a classy look.
- Perfect for Brunch: These scones make an inviting addition to any holiday brunch spread.
FAQs about Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
Can I use different types of chocolate in this recipe?
Absolutely! While white chocolate is a classic choice, feel free to swap in dark or semi-sweet chocolate for a deliciously rich flavor. Just make sure the melting point is compatible for easy drizzling.
How do I store leftover Peppermint White Chocolate Scones?
To keep your scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delightful for up to two days. For longer storage, pop them in the fridge or freeze them—just remember to warm them up before enjoying!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! If you’re prepping for a busy day, you can make the dough a few hours in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready, shape, cut, and bake as usual—the scones will still come out beautifully!
What’s the best way to serve these scones?
Serving them warm is the way to go! Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea, or even hot cocoa for a cozy treat. They can also be part of a festive brunch spread, adding that special festive touch.
Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
Sure thing! You can cut back on the sugar without compromising too much on flavor. Just remember that sugar not only sweetens but also contributes to the texture, so try reducing by a tablespoon or two to start!
Final Thoughts on the Joy of Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
Every bite of these Peppermint White Chocolate Scones is like a warm hug on a chilly day. The winning combination of sweet and minty brings joy that talks back to festive memories and family gatherings. Whether enjoyed during a quiet moment with a cup of tea or as part of a lively holiday brunch, these scones create a delightful atmosphere. They’re more than just baked goods; they’re tokens of love, warmth, and happiness. So, let the aroma fill your kitchen, and savor the smiles they bring to everyone around your table!
Print
Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Peppermint White Chocolate Scones are the perfect treat for the holiday season, combining the refreshing flavor of peppermint with rich white chocolate.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 5 Tablespoons granulated sugar, plus 1 teaspoon
- 1 Tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 6 Tablespoons chilled butter, cut into small pieces
- 2/3 cup Half-and-half, plus 1 tablespoon
- 1/4 cup white chocolate melting wafers
- 2–3 mini peppermint candy canes, crushed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Cut in butter with a pastry blender or two butter knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in 2/3 cup half-and-half, vanilla, and peppermint extract until just moistened.
- On a lightly floured surface, knead dough gently 5 to 10 times.
- Pat into a 1-inch-thick round.
- Cut into 8 wedges; place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, 2 inches apart.
- Brush tops with 1 teaspoon half-and-half, then sprinkle each scone top with sugar.
- Bake until golden brown, 12 to 15 minutes.
- Cool on wire rack.
- Add peppermint candy in a small plastic bag and crush it with the back of a spoon or rolling pin. Set aside candy.
- In a small bowl, add 1/4 cup of white wafers and follow the directions on the package of melting wafers.
- With a teaspoon drizzle melted chocolate over the top of each scone and top with a generous pinch of peppermint bits.
Notes
- For the best flavor and consistency, use Ghirardelli melting wafers.
- Adjust the amount of peppermint extract according to your preference.
- Store any leftover scones in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
