There’s something captivating about the soft, warm scent of freshly baked cherry scones that instantly brightens even the cloudiest of mornings. I recall the first time I took a bite: the delicate flakiness of the dough paired with juicy bursts of sweet cherries was pure bliss. This delightful combination is perfect for breakfast, a cozy brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up with a steaming cup of tea.

What sets these cherry scones apart is the hint of almond essence that subtly enhances their flavor, making them feel both comforting and special. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to whip up, allowing you to bring the sun-kissed flavors of summer straight to your kitchen any time of year. Forget the mundane fast food—these cherry scones are sure to delight your taste buds and impress your loved ones! Let’s dive into this simple yet rewarding recipe that transforms basic ingredients into a scrumptious treat.

Why are Cherry Scones a must-bake?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of juicy cherries and sweet almond essence creates a taste experience that’s both comforting and refined.

Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a delightful treat ready in no time, skipping the long wait associated with elaborate desserts.

Versatile Option: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon snack, these scones fit seamlessly into any occasion, making them crowd-pleasers.

Flaky Perfection: The secret to their incredible texture lies in the cold butter, resulting in a flaky, tender scone that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.

Make Ahead: You can store them for up to two days or freeze for later, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness whenever cravings strike.

For more incredible baked goods that bring joy, check out our amazing biscuit recipes!

Cherry Scone Ingredients

For the Batter
• Eggs – Adds moisture and richness to the dough.
• Heavy Cream – Provides a tender texture due to its fat content; could substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
• Almond Extract – Adds a sweet, nutty flavor that beautifully complements the cherries; can replace with vanilla extract if preferred.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the scones; a gluten-free flour blend may be an alternative for gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Sugar – Sweetens the savory flavors; coconut sugar can be used for a lower glycemic index.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to create the desired rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Salt – Enhances flavor balance; a fine sea salt is recommended.
• Cold Butter – Creates flakiness in the scone; use unsalted for better control of the scone’s saltiness; margarine can be a substitute, though results may vary slightly.
• Cherries – Provides juiciness and natural sweetness; fresh, in-season cherries are best, but frozen cherries can work if thawed and drained.

These cherry scones are a fabulous homemade alternative to store-bought snacks!

How to Make Cherry Scones

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). This ensures the scones bake evenly, transforming into golden-brown delights.
Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and almond extract until smooth. This mixture adds both richness and a lovely hint of almond flavor.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Give it a good stir to evenly distribute these essential dry ingredients.
Cut in the Butter: For the Batter: Add cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. This is what makes your scones flaky!
Incorporate Wet and Cherries: Make a well in the dry mixture. Pour in the wet ingredients and fold in the cherries gently until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; the dough will be sticky.
Shape the Dough: Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out. Gently shape it into a circle about 1 ½ inches high. This step creates the perfect thickness for baking.
Slice Triangles: Cut the dough into 8 triangles with a sharp knife. This gives each scone its lovely shape, allowing for even baking.
Bake: Place the triangles on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-22 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown.

Optional: Serve warm with butter or clotted cream for a decadent treat.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Cherry Scones

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cherry scones for up to 3 months. Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the frozen scones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes. This restores their flakiness and warmth, making them taste freshly baked.

Check for Freshness: Always ensure the scones are completely cool before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess, preserving the delightful texture of your cherry scones.

What to Serve with Cherry Scones?

There’s nothing like a fresh batch of flaky cherry scones to brighten your day and elevate any gathering. Pair them with these delicious accompaniments to create a memorable experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing crunch and complement the sweet cherries perfectly.
Clotted Cream: The rich, creamy texture serves as an indulgent topping for your scones, enhancing their buttery goodness.
Honey or Jam: A drizzle of honey or a dollop of your favorite jam adds an extra layer of sweetness, making each bite more delightful.
Herbal Tea: Enjoy with a soothing cup of chamomile or mint tea, which harmonizes beautifully with the almond flavor in the scones.
Crisp Salad: A light, crisp salad with a citrus vinaigrette can balance the richness of the scones, creating an ideal brunch dish.
Sparkling Lemonade: The bright and bubbly nature of sparkling lemonade is a fantastic refreshment that cuts through the sweetness of the scones.
Cheese Platter: Pair with a selection of soft cheeses, such as goat or cream cheese, that contrast the scones’ sweetness while offering creamy textures.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, serve warm scones with a scoop of vanilla ice cream; the contrast of temperatures is delightful!
Coffee: A steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee beautifully complements the sweet and fruity flavors, enhancing your morning treat.
Chocolate Ganache: A drizzle of rich chocolate offers a decadent twist, perfect for those with a sweet tooth looking to elevate their afternoon snack.

Make Ahead Options

These cherry scones are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the scone dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt) and then adding the cold, cubed butter. Refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply whisk together the wet ingredients and fold in the cherries before shaping and cutting the dough. For optimal freshness, it’s best to bake the scones the same day. Alternatively, you can freeze the shaped scones for up to 3 months; bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Enjoy the convenience of getting a delicious homemade treat on the table with minimal effort!

Cherry Scones Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your creativity into this classic cherry scone recipe—each twist brings a delightful surprise!

Berry Bliss: Swap out cherries for blueberries or raspberries for a vibrant twist that bursts with freshness. Each bite will sing of summer.
Chocolate Delight: Add in semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for a rich and indulgent treat. Imagine the melty chocolate contrasting with the flakiness of the scone!
Nuts Galore: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and nuttiness. This variation adds a lovely texture that brings each scone to life.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the dough for a bright, fragrant twist. The citrus notes will elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
Savory Scones: For a savory spin, omit the sugar and cherries, and add finely chopped herbs like chives or rosemary instead. These make fantastic pairings with soups or salads!
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-sensitive friends and family. You won’t sacrifice flavor, and everyone can enjoy these treats!
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream and butter with coconut cream and coconut oil for a delicious dairy-free option. Embrace those tropical vibes!
Spice it Up: For a hint of warmth, add ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. It creates a cozy flavor perfect for those chilly mornings.

Expert Tips for Cherry Scones

Keep Butter Cold: Use cold butter to ensure flaky layers. Avoid letting it sit out too long before incorporating.
Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the dough until just mixed. Overmixing can lead to tough scones—just embrace those imperfect lumps!
Fresh Ingredients Count: Use fresh baking powder and ripe cherries for the best flavor. Stale ingredients can affect the rise and taste of your cherry scones.
Space Them Out: Place scones evenly on the baking sheet to promote uniform baking, preventing sogginess or uneven browning.
Serve Warm: Enjoy these delectable cherry scones straight from the oven for an irresistible warmth that enhances their flavor.

Cherry Scones Recipe FAQs

How should I select my cherries for cherry scones?
Absolutely! Fresh, in-season cherries are always the best choice for cherry scones due to their juicy sweetness and vibrant flavor. Look for cherries that are firm, plump, and free from dark spots or blemishes. If you can’t find fresh cherries, frozen ones work well too; just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding them to your dough.

What is the best way to store cherry scones?
For optimal freshness, store your cherry scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to 3 months. Just wrap each scone in plastic wrap, and pop them in a freezer-safe bag for easy access!

How do I reheat frozen cherry scones?
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cherry scones, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-12 minutes. This simple reheating method will restore their delightful flakiness and warmth, making them taste as if they were just freshly baked!

What can I do if my cherry scone dough is too sticky?
Very! If your dough is too sticky during the mixing process, it might be due to humidity or using too much liquid. Don’t worry, just dust your work surface with a bit of all-purpose flour as you shape the dough. You can also adjust by folding in a little extra flour, just be careful not to Overmix to maintain that tender texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for cherry scones?
Yes! If you’re concerned about gluten, you can use a gluten-free flour blend as an alternative for the all-purpose flour. Also, consider using coconut sugar instead of regular sugar for a lower glycemic option. If you know someone with allergies, remember that these cherry scones contain dairy (heavy cream and butter) and eggs, so you may want to inform them before serving.

Can I make cherry scones ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance. After mixing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before rolling out and cutting into triangles before baking. This makes for a quick and satisfying bake when you’re ready for a treat!