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As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of zesty lemons filled the air, taking me back to sun-drenched afternoons spent enjoying tea with friends. I couldn’t wait to share my Gluten Free Lemon Poppyseed Scones with you! These delightful treats are not only quick to whip up but also perfect for elevating any breakfast or afternoon snack moment. With flaky textures and a perfect balance of sweetness and citrus tang, they are bound to win over anyone looking for a satisfying, homemade indulgence. Plus, they’re gluten-free, ensuring even those with dietary restrictions can enjoy a slice of happiness. Ready to bring a little sunshine to your baking? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe together!
Why will you love these scones?
Delightful Zest: Each bite bursts with bright lemon flavor, making these scones a refreshing treat perfect for any time of day.
Flaky Perfection: Achieve that ideal crumbly texture by following the simple folding technique—no tough kneading required!
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Quick & Easy: Whip them up in no time! These scones come together quickly, letting you enjoy homemade goodness without hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Variations: Substitute poppyseeds for chocolate chips or explore other citrus zests to create your own twist.
Diet-Friendly: Cater to gluten-free diets without sacrificing taste—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for brunch or a cozy afternoon, these scones are sure to impress your family and friends, just like my delightful Lemon Sweet Rolls or Lemon Raspberry Cookie Sandwiches.
Gluten Free Lemon Scone Ingredients
• Perfectly crafted for your next baking adventure!
For the Dough
- Zest from 2 medium lemons – Provides a bright, citrusy flavor for these gluten free lemon scones.
- 100 grams granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and balances the tartness of the lemons.
- 300 grams gluten-free multipurpose flour – Forms the structure of the scone; essential for that crumbly texture.
- 14 grams baking powder (1 tablespoon) – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure the scones rise beautifully.
- 9 grams poppyseeds (1 tablespoon) – Adds a nutty flavor and visual appeal; feel free to omit if desired.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors throughout the scone.
- 113 grams unsalted butter, cold – Creates a flaky texture in the scones; use dairy-free butter for a vegan option.
- 125 grams kefir (or buttermilk) – Adds moisture and flavor, keeping scones tender.
- 1 large egg – Acts as a binder to hold everything together; swap in a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
- 25 grams lemon juice, fresh squeezed – Provides additional acidity for delightful flavor.
For Topping
- Raw Sugar – For a sparkling crunch on top before baking; coarse sugar works as a substitute.
- Extra Kefir or Buttermilk – For brushing on scones before baking, enhancing that golden finish.
For the Glaze
- 50 grams powdered sugar – This adds delightful sweetness to the glaze; adjust to your liking!
- 10-20 grams lemon juice – To thin the glaze to the desired consistency, use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
Get ready to enjoy the sunny flavor of these gluten free lemon scones with every bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gluten Free Lemon Poppyseed Scones
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures that your Gluten Free Lemon Poppyseed Scones have the ideal environment to rise and develop a beautiful golden color while baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free multipurpose flour, baking powder, poppyseeds, and kosher salt. This uniform mix creates a solid foundation for your scones, enhancing their texture. Set this bowl aside as you prepare to combine the wet ingredients next.
Step 3: Combine Sugar and Zest
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and lemon zest by rubbing them together between your fingers. This releases the fragrant oils from the zest, creating a citrusy aroma that adds depth of flavor to the scones. Once mixed, you can move on to combine with the dry ingredients.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Add the flour mixture into the sugar-zest bowl, stirring to combine well. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cold butter cubes with the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This is crucial for creating flaky layers in your Gluten Free Lemon Scones.
Step 5: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the kefir, egg, and fresh lemon juice until the mixture is frothy. This step incorporates air and moisture into your dough. Once frothy, pour this mixture into your dry ingredients and gently stir until a shaggy dough forms, being careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Turn the shaggy dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a rectangle. Avoid kneading; instead, fold the dough several times to create layers without developing gluten. This folding technique is essential for achieving that tender, flaky texture that makes these scones irresistible.
Step 7: Chill the Dough
Form the dough into a 6-inch disk and wrap it in plastic wrap, placing it in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes. Chilling the dough helps retain the butter’s solidity, which is key for achieving flaky scones when baked.
Step 8: Cut and Prepare for Baking
After chilling, remove the dough and cut it into eight equal wedges. Place the scones on your prepared baking sheet, brushing the tops with extra kefir or buttermilk to encourage browning. Sprinkle raw sugar on top to add a delightful crunch when baked.
Step 9: Bake the Scones
Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 22-26 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are fragrant throughout your kitchen. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent overbaking, as you want them to remain soft and tender inside.
Step 10: Cool and Glaze
Once baked, remove your Gluten Free Lemon Poppyseed Scones from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the scones and let it set before serving.
Expert Tips for Gluten Free Lemon Scones
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lemons and ensure your baking powder is active for the best rise and flavor in your scones.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently stir the dough until just combined to keep your gluten free lemon scones light and flaky; overmixing can lead to toughness.
Chill the Dough: Always refrigerate the shaped dough for at least 10 minutes before baking to help the scones rise and stay flaky.
Accurate Measurements: Use a digital scale for precise measurements; this can significantly improve texture and flavor, especially in gluten-free baking.
Variations Welcome: Don’t hesitate to substitute poppyseeds with chocolate chips or different citrus zest to create your personalized twist on these delightful scones.
Storage Tips: Enjoy your gluten free lemon scones fresh out of the oven, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Make Ahead Options
These Gluten Free Lemon Poppyseed Scones are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy mornings! You can prepare the scone dough up to 24 hours in advance by shaping it into a disk and wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked scones for up to 1 month. Just make sure to brush them with kefir or buttermilk and sprinkle with raw sugar right before putting them in the oven. When ready to bake, you can pop them directly from the freeze into the oven, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you’ll enjoy homemade deliciousness without the fuss!
What to Serve with Gluten Free Lemon Poppyseed Scones
Elevate your breakfast or afternoon tea experience with delightful pairings that enhance the zesty flavors of your scones.
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Fresh Berry Medley: A colorful assortment of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a refreshing burst of sweetness and contrast beautifully with the lemon’s brightness.
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Herbal Tea Selection: Enjoy a warm cup of chamomile or mint tea, whose calming flavors perfectly complement the zesty notes of lemon in the scones.
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Devonshire Cream: This rich and creamy topping adds a luxurious touch, transforming each bite into a delightful indulgence that balances the tartness of the lemon.
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Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey over the scones introduces a hint of sweetness, enhancing the existing flavors without overwhelming their citrusy goodness.
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Fruit-Infused Sparkling Water: Refresh yourself with a glass of sparkling water infused with lemon or cucumber, acting as a palate cleanser between bites and keeping the experience light.
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Mini Quiches: For a savory complement, serve mini quiches alongside your scones; their fluffy and cheesy goodness creates a delightful contrast against the flaky, sweet scones.
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Sweet Lemonade: A chilled glass of fresh lemonade ties in perfectly with the scones, making for a refreshing and cohesive flavor experience at your brunch table.
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Creamy Yogurt: Top plain Greek yogurt with a sprinkle of lemon zest and a hint of honey—a creamy counterpart that adds texture and balances the scone’s crumbly nature.
Variations & Substitutions for Gluten Free Lemon Scones
Get creative with these delightful lemon scones and tailor them to suit your taste or dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or dairy-free butter for a vegan-friendly option.
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Flour Alternatives: Experiment with almond flour or a gluten-free oat flour mix to enhance flavor and texture. Just remember, the ratio may vary for perfect results.
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Sweetener Switch: Try using honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a natural sweetness that brings a different depth of flavor.
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Citrus Twist: Replace lemon zest with the zest of orange or lime for a fun twist on the classic recipe. Each gives a fresh flair to your scones!
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or almonds for a delightful crunch. The nutty flavor will complement the lemon beautifully.
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Chocolate Lovers: Swap poppyseeds for mini chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks, creating a sweet and citrusy surprise with every bite.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of ground ginger or cardamom to the dry ingredients for a warming spice that layers in extra flavor.
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Herb-Infused: Mix in some fresh chopped rosemary or thyme for a fragrant, savory twist that pairs excellently with the lemon.
Enjoy the endless possibilities with these variations and personalize your Gluten Free Lemon Scones! For even more delightful lemon-infused recipes, check out my Healthy Baked Lemon chicken or indulge in some scrumptious Lemon Raspberry Cookie Sandwiches. Happy baking!
How to Store and Freeze Gluten Free Lemon Scones
Room Temperature: Store cooled scones in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Enjoy them at their best on the day they are baked!
Fridge: For longer storage, keep scones in the fridge, where they can last up to a week. Make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked scone dough for up to 1 month. Shape the dough into wedges, wrap tightly, and bake from frozen when craving a warm treat!
Reheating: To reheat, warm baked scones in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds until just warm. This helps restore their delightful flakiness.
Gluten Free Lemon Poppyseed Scones Recipe FAQs
How can I choose the right lemons for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Look for firm lemons that are heavy for their size; they should have a vibrant yellow color without dark spots. Organic lemons are ideal as they are usually fresher and have more essential oils in their zest, enhancing the scone’s flavor.
What is the best way to store leftover scones?
For optimal freshness, store your cooled Gluten Free Lemon Poppyseed Scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you expect to have leftovers, refrigerating them can extend their shelf life up to a week, but ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze the scone dough for future use?
Yes, you can! Shape the scone dough into individual wedges and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to bake, you can bake them directly from the freezer—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time!
What can I do if my scones come out dense?
No worries! Dense scones often result from overmixing the dough or not using fresh leavening agents. To avoid this, mix until just combined, and ensure your baking powder is within its expiration date. For a flakier texture, remember to avoid kneading and instead fold the dough gently.
Are these scones safe for everyone to enjoy, including pets?
While these Gluten Free Lemon Poppyseed Scones are a delightful treat for your family and friends, it’s best to keep them away from pets. Ingredients like lemon and butter can be harmful to dogs and some other animals, so it’s wise to enjoy these scones yourself and spare your furry friends.
How can I achieve a golden finish on my scones?
To ensure a beautiful golden crust, brush the tops of the scones with extra kefir or buttermilk before baking. This added layer not only helps with browning but also enriches the flavor. Coarse sugar on top adds an extra crunch and visual appeal!
Gluten Free Lemon Scones: A Zesty Treat for Any Occasion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free multipurpose flour, baking powder, poppyseeds, and kosher salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and lemon zest by rubbing them together.
- Add the flour mixture into the sugar-zest bowl, stirring to combine well.
- In another bowl, whisk together the kefir, egg, and fresh lemon juice until frothy.
- Turn the shaggy dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a rectangle.
- Form the dough into a 6-inch disk and wrap it in plastic wrap; chill for at least 10 minutes.
- Remove the dough and cut it into eight equal wedges; place on the baking sheet.
- Bake the scones for 22-26 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let the scones cool for 10 minutes and prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice.
