Perfect Lemon Raspberry Scones Recipe with Zesty Glaze

Let me paint you a picture: the tangy aroma of freshly zested lemons mingling with the sweet, juicy scent of ripe raspberries, all wrapped up in the warmth of buttery, flaky scones fresh from the oven. It’s the kind of moment that makes you stop, take a deep breath, and just smile. The first time I made these Lemon Raspberry Scones was on a rainy Sunday morning, and I can still remember how my family couldn’t stop sneaking bites straight off the cooling rack. (I couldn’t blame them!)

There’s something about the combination of tart lemon and sweet raspberries that feels both indulgent and refreshing. These scones are pure comfort food, the kind that makes you feel cozy and happy with every bite. And that zesty glaze? Oh, it’s the cherry on top—or should I say, the lemon drizzle on top—that ties everything together beautifully.

This recipe has become a staple in my home, whether it’s for brunch gatherings, afternoon tea, or simply a midweek treat. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to bookmark this one. It’s the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, soft and crumbly, with just the right amount of buttery richness. Ready to whip up some magic in your kitchen? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: These scones come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings or last-minute entertaining.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have everything you need in your pantry and fridge—no fancy grocery trips required.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy brunch, a holiday breakfast, or a casual afternoon snack, these scones are always a hit.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids, adults, grandparents—everyone loves these! They’re a guaranteed show-stopper.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The texture is just right: soft and tender on the inside, with a slightly crisp exterior. Pair that with the fresh, vibrant flavors of lemon and raspberry, and you’ve got a treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity paired with the stunning flavor profile. The zesty lemon glaze adds an extra pop of brightness, elevating these scones from great to unforgettable. And the raspberries? They burst with fresh sweetness in every bite. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to time and time again—comforting, easy, and oh-so-satisfying.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour: The base for your scones. You can use gluten-free flour as a substitute if needed.
• Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
• Baking powder: Helps the scones rise beautifully.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• Unsalted butter, cold: The secret to those flaky layers! (You can use plant-based butter for a dairy-free option).
• Heavy cream: Creates a rich, tender crumb. Substitute with coconut cream for a non-dairy version.
• Egg: Adds structure and a hint of richness.
• Fresh raspberries: Juicy and sweet—make sure they’re firm to avoid them breaking apart while mixing.
• Lemon zest: Packed with vibrant, tangy flavor. Use organic lemons for the best zest.
• Powdered sugar: For the glaze—it creates that perfect sweet finish.
• Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed juice adds a bright contrast to the sweetness.

These ingredients come together to create scones that are soft, buttery, and bursting with fresh flavors. If you’re in a pinch, frozen raspberries can work too—just don’t thaw them before adding to the dough!

Equipment Needed

You don’t need any fancy gadgets to make these scones, which is a huge plus! Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls: A large one for the dry ingredients and a smaller one for the wet ingredients.
• Pastry cutter: Helps incorporate the butter into the flour. If you don’t have one, two forks or clean hands work just fine.
• Zester: For that fresh lemon zest—trust me, it makes all the difference.
• Baking sheet: Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Brush: Optional, but useful for spreading the glaze evenly.

If you don’t have a pastry cutter, don’t worry. Just use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs—it’s an oddly satisfying process!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar, 1 tbsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt.
3. Cut in the butter: Add 1/2 cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Prepare the wet ingredients: In a smaller bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream, 1 large egg, and the zest of 1 lemon.
5. Combine the mixtures: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—it’s okay if the dough looks slightly shaggy.
6. Fold in the raspberries: Gently fold in 1 cup (150g) fresh raspberries. Be gentle to avoid crushing them.
7. Shape the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut it into 8 wedges and transfer them to your prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake: Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges are set. Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
9. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar and 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over the warm scones.

And voila! You’ve got yourself a batch of perfect Lemon Raspberry Scones with Zesty Glaze that look as beautiful as they taste.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tried-and-true tips to guarantee your scones are bakery-worthy every single time:

• Keep everything cold: Cold butter is key to creating those flaky layers. Chill your butter and even your mixing bowl if needed.
• Don’t overwork the dough: Overmixing can make your scones dense instead of light and fluffy. Mix just until the dough comes together.
• Use fresh lemons: The flavor from fresh lemon juice and zest is irreplaceable. Don’t substitute with bottled juice!
• Be gentle with the raspberries: Fold them in carefully to avoid breaking them and creating a mushy dough.
• Chill the dough: If your kitchen is warm, pop the shaped scones into the fridge for 10 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.

By following these tips, you’ll be rewarded with scones that are tender, flaky, and bursting with fresh flavor. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort!

Variations & Adaptations

Want to switch things up? Here are some easy ways to adapt this recipe to your taste or dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free Version: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Double-check that your baking powder is gluten-free too!
• Berry Swap: Not a fan of raspberries? Try blueberries, blackberries, or even chopped strawberries.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream.
• Extra Zesty: Add a splash of lemon extract or a bit more zest if you want an even bolder lemon flavor.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add a handful of white chocolate chips for a creamy, sweet twist that complements the tartness of the lemon and raspberries.

One of my favorite variations is swapping out the raspberries for dried cranberries and adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dough. It’s perfect for the holiday season!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Lemon Raspberry Scones are best served fresh and warm, ideally with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. Arrange them on a pretty platter and drizzle more glaze on top just before serving for that extra wow factor.

If you have leftovers (though it’s rare in my house), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or microwave for about 20 seconds.

Pro tip: The flavors of the scones deepen after the first day, so don’t be afraid to enjoy them as a make-ahead breakfast or snack.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

While these scones are a treat, they still offer some nutritional perks:

• Lemon: Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, lemons help boost immunity and add a refreshing zing.
• Raspberries: These berries are rich in fiber and provide a natural sweetness, along with vitamins and minerals like vitamin C and manganese.
• Moderate Calories: Each scone contains approximately 220 calories, making them a manageable indulgence.
• Dairy-Free Option: Easily adaptable for those avoiding dairy or lactose.
• Low Sugar: With minimal added sugar, the natural sweetness of raspberries and the glaze keeps it just right.

These scones are not just delicious—they’re a great way to enjoy a sweet treat while sneaking in some nutritious ingredients.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that combines vibrant flavors, easy prep, and crowd-pleasing results, these Lemon Raspberry Scones with Zesty Glaze are the answer. They’ve quickly become a favorite in my home, and I can’t wait for you to try them.

Feel free to make this recipe your own—add your favorite berries, tweak the sweetness of the glaze, or even experiment with gluten-free flour. It’s versatile, forgiving, and just plain delicious.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, frozen raspberries work perfectly! Just add them straight from the freezer to prevent them from releasing too much juice into the dough.

How do I prevent my scones from spreading too much?

Make sure your butter and dough are chilled before baking. You can pop the shaped scones in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm up before baking.

Can I make these scones ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the dough, shape the scones, and freeze them. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

Can I skip the glaze?

Definitely! The scones are delicious on their own, but the glaze adds a lovely tangy sweetness. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for a simpler topping.

Can I use other citrus fruits?

Yes! Lime or orange zest and juice would be great substitutes if you want to try a different flavor profile. Just adjust the amount based on your taste.

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