Apple Cinnamon Scones

Ingredients

• 240 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour, sifted if lumpy
• 60 g (2/3 cup) rolled oats
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for a cosy warmth)
• 115 g (1/2 cup) cold butter, cubed
• 1 large apple, peeled and finely chopped
• 120 ml (1/2 cup) milk, cold (whole milk or 2% for best texture)
• 60 ml (1/4 cup) honey

Instructions

1. Prep and Measure: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Measure all ingredients before you start, especially as the butter needs to stay cold.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg. Use a whisk to evenly blend these dry ingredients, breaking up any lumps.
3. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter, two knives, or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces.
4. Add the Apple: Toss in the chopped apple, coating it with the flour mixture. This step helps prevent the apple pieces from sinking to the bottom of the dough.
5. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and honey until smooth. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients.
6. Bring It Together: Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon, folding the ingredients just until combined. Avoid overmixing—scones should be light, not tough. The dough will be sticky but should hold together.
7. Shape the Dough: Lightly flour a clean surface, then turn out the dough. Pat it into a rough circle about 2.5 cm (1 inch) thick. Cut into 8 wedges or use a round cutter to shape individual scones.
8. Bake: Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
9. Cool and Enjoy: Allow the scones to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or a pat of butter.

Tips and Optional Enhancements

• For Fluffier Scones: Chill the shaped scones in the freezer for 10 minutes before baking. Cold butter in the dough creates steam pockets, making the scones rise better.
• Add a Glaze: Mix 60 g (1/2 cup) powdered sugar with 1–2 tsp milk and a pinch of cinnamon for a light drizzle on top.
• Substitute Honey: For a different flavour, try maple syrup instead of honey. Just as delicious with a hint of maple warmth!