Gin Extractgerbread Scones are a delightful twist on traditional baked goods, bringing together the warmth of gingerbread spices and the sophisticated flavor of gin. These scones are not just a treat for the palate but a celebration of the cozy season, perfectly suited for holiday gatherings or a comforting afternoon tea. The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and a hint of botanical gin infuses each bite with a rich history that pays homage to both British baking tradition and the artisanal craft of distillation. It’s no wonder that Gin Extractgerbread Scones have become a beloved favorite for those looking to elevate their scone game while indulging in a festive spirit, making them the star of any table.
What Is Gin Extractgerbread Scones
Gin Extractgerbread Scones are delightful pastries that blend the fluffy texture of classic scones with the robust flavors of gingerbread and gin. These scones are slightly crisp on the outside while remaining soft and tender on the inside, creating a contrast that is incredibly satisfying. Unlike typical gingerbread cookies, which tend to be denser and chewier, scones provide a light and airy experience that makes them perfect for pairing with your favorite spreads or enjoying on their own. The addition of gin adds a unique depth of flavor, making these scones truly special and a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Easy to make, even for novice bakers!
- Deliciously unique, offering a twist on classic scones.
- Family-friendly, perfect for gatherings or cozy breakfasts.
- Versatile, great with butter, cream, or your favorite jam.
How Does It Taste?
The flavor profile of Gin Extractgerbread Scones is a beautiful symphony of sweet and spicy notes. The warmth of ginger and cinnamon dances on your tongue, while the botanical essence of gin lingers pleasantly, adding a touch of sophistication. Each bite is a delightful contrast between the sweet, aromatic spices and the light, flaky texture of the scone. The subtle sweetness is perfectly balanced, making these scones a versatile treat that can be enjoyed any time of day.
Health & Ingredient Benefits
The key ingredients in Gin Extractgerbread Scones not only contribute to their delicious flavor but also offer numerous health benefits:
- Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can aid digestion and boost immunity.
- Cinnamon: This warm spice is rich in antioxidants and has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Whole Wheat Flour: A great source of fiber, it promotes digestive health and provides sustained energy.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Natural sweeteners that can offer vitamins and minerals while providing a touch of sweetness.
With these benefits in mind, Gin Extractgerbread Scones become not just a delightful treat but also a wholesome addition to your culinary repertoire!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the base structure for the scones.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – Essential for leavening, ensuring the scones rise beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger – Infuses the scones with a warm, spicy flavor synonymous with gingerbread.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Complements the ginger and adds depth to the flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg – A pinch of nutmeg enhances the warm spices and rounds out the flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed – Creates a tender, flaky texture in the scones.
- 1/2 cup whole milk – Provides moisture and richness; can be substituted with a non-dairy alternative.
- 1/4 cup gin (or non-alcoholic gin alternative) – Adds a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices.
- 1/2 cup chopped crystallized ginger – Offers bursts of sweetness and chewy texture throughout the scone.
- 1 egg, lightly beaten – Acts as a binding agent and adds richness.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – For combining dry ingredients.
- Pastry cutter or fork – To cut the butter into the flour mixture.
- Baking sheet – To bake the scones on.
- Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Rolling pin – Optional, for shaping the dough.
- Cookie cutter or knife – To cut the scones into desired shapes.
- Cooling rack – For letting the scones cool after baking.
Optional Substitutions & Additions
- Flour – You can use whole wheat flour for a heartier scone.
- Sweetener – Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
- Dairy-free options – Substitute whole milk with unsweetened almond milk or oat milk.
- Spice variations – Add a pinch of allspice or cloves for an even spicier kick.
- Fruit additions – Incorporate dried cranberries or currants for added sweetness and texture.
How to Make Gin Extractgerbread Scones
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your scones will bake evenly and rise beautifully.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. The mixture should appear light and fluffy, with no clumps visible.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or fork, work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. You want small pea-sized pieces of butter to remain, which will create flakiness in the scone.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, gin, and beaten egg until combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.
Step 6: Fold in Crystallized Ginger
Gently fold in the chopped crystallized ginger, distributing it evenly throughout the dough. This will add bursts of flavor and texture in every bite.
Step 7: Shape the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and pat it into a disc about 1-inch thick. You may use a rolling pin if desired. Cut the disc into wedges or use a cookie cutter for shapes.
Step 8: Bake
Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, transfer the scones to a cooling rack. Let them cool slightly before serving warm, ideally with a spread of butter or your favorite jam.
What to Serve With
These Gin Extractgerbread Scones pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. You might also enjoy them with a drizzle of honey, a dollop of clotted cream, or alongside a fresh fruit compote for added sweetness and flavor.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your butter is very cold; this helps create the desired flaky texture.
- Do not overmix your dough; it should be slightly lumpy for the best results.
- Experiment with different spices to find your perfect flavor balance.
- For a nice finish, brush the tops of the scones with a little milk before baking for a shiny appearance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overworking the dough can lead to tough scones; mix just until combined.
- Using warm butter will result in dense scones; always use cold butter.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect the outcome; use proper measuring tools.
- Skipping the chilling of the dough can lead to scones that don’t rise properly.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing
Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, place the scones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them chewy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make these scones without gin? Absolutely! You can replace gin with an equal amount of non-alcoholic gin alternative or even just use more milk for moisture.
- Can I add other spices? Yes! Feel free to add spices like cloves or allspice to tailor the flavor to your liking.
- Are these scones suitable for freezing? Yes, you can freeze unbaked scones; just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
- How can I make these scones sweeter? You can increase the amount of brown sugar or add a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk on top after baking.
Nutritional Info
Each Gin Extractgerbread Scone contains approximately 200 calories, with 7g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 3g of protein. Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and variations used in the recipe.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to elevate your baking game, the Gin Extractgerbread Scones are an absolute must-try! The delightful combination of warming spices and the unique flavor of gin extract creates a scone that is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy afternoon tea or a festive gathering. These scones are not only easy to make, but they also bring a touch of holiday spirit to your table, making them a perfect treat to share with friends and family. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to impress everyone with these delicious Gin Extractgerbread Scones. Trust me, once you’ve tasted these delightful treats, you’ll be coming back for more!
Gingerbread Scones
Delicious gingerbread scones with a unique twist, perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Scones:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1/3 cup Swerve Brown, packed
- 1 tbsp coconut flour
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Frosting:
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered Swerve Sweetener, or powdered erythritol
- 1/4 tsp vanilla
- 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream
- Water to thin, as needed.
Instructions
-
Step 1
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). -
Step 2
In a bowl, mix almond flour, Swerve Brown, coconut flour, cocoa powder, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking powder, and salt. -
Step 3
In another bowl, combine cream cheese, egg, and vanilla until smooth. Add to dry ingredients and mix until combined. -
Step 4
Turn dough onto a floured surface, shape into a disc, and cut into wedges. -
Step 5
Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden. -
Step 6
For frosting, mix cream cheese, powdered Swerve, vanilla, and heavy cream. Add water to achieve desired consistency. -
Step 7
Cool scones, then drizzle with frosting before serving.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: ~350 calories. Based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Allergy Information
Always check labels for specific allergen information.