During yesterday’s bread class, we each got to choose whether we wanted to make a scone or a biscuit, as well as what we wanted to put in it. Being the crazy sugar lady that I am, I went the scone route, and added plenty of cinnamon and chocolate chips. The result was pretty freaking amazing, if I say so myself.

Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Scones

adapted from the Natural Gourmet Institute

Prep time: 15 minutes, cook time: 20 minutes, yields 8 scones

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole-wheat pastry flour
  • 1/3 cup maple crystals*
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 3 tablespoons chilled unsalted butter, cut into chunks
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons maple crystals
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon

* White sugar may be used instead

Procedure:

1. Preheat oven to 375*F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a Silpat liner.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, maple crystals/sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and sea salt.

3. Using your fingertips, cut butter into flour mixture. Continue mixing until large chunks are gone and mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add chocolate chips.

4. Gradually stir in in buttermilk and maple syrup a few tablespoons at a time, being careful not to overmix. Dough should be sticky but hold together; if it appears too dry, add a tablespoon of water.

5. On a lightly floured surface, form a disc out of the dough and use your fingers to press it into a 1 inch thickness. Cut into eight triangles and place on baking sheet.

6. In a small bowl, combine remaining maple crystals and cinnamon. Brush tops of scones with milk, then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.

7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops have turned golden brown and are firm to the touch (a toothpick inserted in center should come out clean. Cool on wire racks.

These scones have a spicy flavor from the cinnamon, paired with a sweet, chocolate taste from the chips. They’re particularly amazing still warm, though they cool down to a dense yet soft texture. Perfect with a cup of coffee…