Growing up, I always looked forward to the weekends when my grandma would whip up a batch of her famous lemon ricotta scones. The aroma of fresh-baked pastries and the tangy zing of lemon would fill the air, beckoning me into the kitchen. As I’d watch her carefully fold the dough and shape the scones, I knew I was in for a special treat.
Lemon ricotta scones were more than just a baked good – they were a cherished family tradition, a moment of pure comfort and joy. Whether we enjoyed them with a hot cup of tea or as a special breakfast, those flaky, tender scones always brought a smile to our faces. There was just something about the perfect balance of tart lemon and creamy ricotta that made them an irresistible delight.
Why This Lemon Ricotta Scones Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Lemon Ricotta Scones
When it comes to lemon ricotta scones, this recipe is truly the cream of the crop. What sets it apart is the careful attention to detail and the use of high-quality ingredients. By incorporating cold, cubed unsalted butter, we create a flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s simply unbeatable. The addition of whole-milk ricotta cheese not only lends a luxurious creaminess but also helps to keep the scones incredibly tender.
One of the key secrets to this recipe is the use of heavy cream. While you might be tempted to swap it out for a lower-fat alternative, the heavy cream is what gives these scones their rich, indulgent character. It binds the dough together seamlessly and adds a delightful richness that perfectly complements the bright, citrusy lemon zest.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This provides the sturdy base for the scones, ensuring they hold their shape and have a satisfying texture.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the tartness of the lemon and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: This is the leavening agent that helps the scones rise and achieve their signature fluffy interior.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: A small amount of salt brings out the natural flavors and prevents the scones from tasting flat.
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed: Cold butter is essential for creating the flaky layers that make scones so irresistible.
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese: This rich and creamy ingredient adds moisture and a delightful creaminess to the scones.
- 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest: The bright, aromatic lemon zest is the star of the show, infusing the scones with a refreshing citrus flavor.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream, plus more for brushing: Heavy cream is the secret to achieving a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step-by-Step Lemon Ricotta Scones Instructions
Preparing Your Lemon Ricotta Scones
Prep time for these lemon ricotta scones is just 20 minutes, and the baking time is a quick 15 minutes, for a total time of 35 minutes from start to finish. To get started, you’ll need a large mixing bowl, a pastry cutter or two forks, a baking sheet, and a few common kitchen tools.
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 all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3- Using a pastry cutter or two forks, cut in the cold, cubed unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4- Gently fold in the whole-milk ricotta cheese and the grated lemon zest until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5- Pour in the heavy cream and stir just until a soft, shaggy dough forms.
6- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times, then pat it into a round, about 3/4-inch thick. Cut the dough into 8 equal wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Brush the tops with a bit of additional heavy cream.
Pro Tips for Success
- Keep the butter cold: Chilled butter is the key to achieving those irresistible flaky layers, so be sure to work quickly and handle the dough as little as possible.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough, dense scones. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined.
- Chill the dough: For extra-tender scones, place the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes before cutting and baking.
- Use a light touch: When shaping the dough, be gentle and avoid pressing down too firmly, which can compromise the delicate texture.
- Brush with cream: Brushing the tops of the scones with a bit of heavy cream before baking gives them a beautiful golden-brown color and a touch of extra richness.
Serving and Storing Your Lemon Ricotta Scones
Perfect Pairings for Lemon Ricotta Scones
These lemon ricotta scones are the perfect accompaniment to a variety of occasions. Serve them alongside a steaming cup of earl grey tea or a frothy latte for a delightful breakfast or mid-morning snack. They also make a lovely addition to a afternoon tea party, complementing the flavors of fresh berries, clotted cream, and preserves.
For a special brunch, pair the scones with a fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon, and a pitcher of mimosas. And don’t forget about the dessert course – these scones are equally at home as a sweet ending to a meal, perhaps with a drizzle of lemon glaze or a dollop of whipped cream.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Lemon ricotta scones are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but you can easily make them ahead of time. Once baked and cooled, store the scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked scones. Simply place the uncooked wedges on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen scones on a prepared baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
To reheat leftover scones, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crisp on the outside.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Lemon Ricotta Scones
Creative Lemon Ricotta Scones Variations
While this classic lemon ricotta scones recipe is a true delight, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it:
- Lemon Blueberry Scones: Fold in a handful of fresh or frozen blueberries for a burst of juicy sweetness.
- Lemon Poppy Seed Scones: Add 1-2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the dough for a delightful crunch.
- Lemon Rosemary Scones: Finely chop a tablespoon of fresh rosemary and incorporate it into the dough.
- Lemon Lavender Scones: Infuse the scones with the aromatic notes of dried lavender buds.
Making Lemon Ricotta Scones Diet-Friendly
For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your needs:
- Gluten-Free Lemon Ricotta Scones: Swap the all-purpose flour for a high-quality gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan Lemon Ricotta Scones: Replace the ricotta cheese with a plant-based alternative, such as almond or coconut-based ricotta. Use plant-based milk and butter substitutes as well.
- Low-Carb Lemon Ricotta Scones: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a low-carb flour, such as almond or coconut flour, and reduce the sugar content.
No matter which variation you choose, these lemon ricotta scones are sure to delight your taste buds and become a new family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute the ricotta cheese with another ingredient?
A: While ricotta cheese is the star of this recipe, you can substitute it with full-fat cottage cheese or even cream cheese if needed. Just be sure to adjust the texture accordingly.
Q: How long do the scones take to bake?
A: The total baking time for these lemon ricotta scones is 15 minutes. Be sure to keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can make the dough up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply shape and bake the scones as directed.
Q: How many scones does this recipe yield?
A: This recipe makes 8 delicious lemon ricotta scones, perfect for serving a small group or enjoying throughout the week.
Q: What if my scones come out dry or crumbly?
A: If your scones turn out dry or crumbly, it’s likely due to overbaking or over-mixing the dough. Make sure to handle the dough gently and keep a close eye on the baking time.
Lemon Ricotta Scones
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 8 scones
Description
These tender, flaky lemon ricotta scones are a delightful treat that come together in just 20 minutes. Bursting with bright citrus flavor and a delicate crumb, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup heavy cream, plus more for brushing
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the ricotta cheese and lemon zest until just combined.
5. Add the heavy cream and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together.
7. Pat the dough into a 6-inch circle, about 3/4-inch thick.
8. Cut the circle into 8 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Brush the tops of the scones with a little heavy cream.
10. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Allow the scones to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a sweeter scone, you can increase the sugar to 1/3 cup. For a more intense lemon flavor, add an extra teaspoon of lemon zest. The scones can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
These lemon ricotta scones are a true delight, blending the tangy brightness of lemon with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese. Whether you’re serving them for a special brunch or enjoying them as an afternoon treat, they’re sure to bring a smile to your face and a burst of sunshine to your day.
I hope this recipe becomes a new favorite in your household, just as it has been in mine for so many years. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try out the various variations – the possibilities are endless! And be sure to let me know how your lemon ricotta scones turn out. I’d love to hear all about your baking adventures.
