Chocolate Pecan Scones

Chocolate Pecan Scones are flaky and delicious, packed with rich chocolate and crunchy pecans. These scones are perfect for breakfast or brunch and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Their delightful texture and flavor make them a standout treat for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weekend morning or a festive gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these scones come together quickly.
• Delicious Flavor Combo: The combination of chocolate and pecans creates a rich taste that will delight your palate.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these scones warm with butter or jam, or enjoy them plain for a tasty snack.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, these scones fit right in.
• Great for Sharing: With 8 generous servings, they’re perfect for gatherings with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make Chocolate Pecan Scones successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures ease of preparation and helps achieve the perfect texture.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pastry cutter (or forks)
• Glass measuring cup
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine dry ingredients easily before adding wet ones.
• Baking sheet: Using a baking sheet lined with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes clean-up easy.
• Pastry cutter (or forks): These tools help cut cold butter into the flour mixture effectively, creating a flaky texture.

Ingredients

Chocolate Pecan Scones are flaky and loaded with chocolate and pecans! Serve warm or at room temperature. Perfect for breakfast or brunch!

For the Scone Base

• 2 and 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Dough Enrichment

• 1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter, VERY cold and cut into tiny pieces
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Add-ins for Flavor

• 12 ounce bag chocolate chips
• 1 cup pecans, chopped

For Topping

• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon milk or water
• 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar, for sprinkling

How to Make Chocolate Pecan Scones

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, baking powder, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well to combine.

Step 3: Incorporate Butter

Cut the butter into small cubes then work it into the mixture using your fingers, two forks, or a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse meal.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a glass measuring cup whisk together the egg, cream, and vanilla. Add this liquid mixture to the flour mixture along with the chocolate chips and pecans. Use a fork to stir everything together until just moistened. Don’t worry if the dough looks shaggy!

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Empty the loose dough onto a clean, lightly floured work surface. Knead the dough a few times to bring it together then shape it into an 8-inch disc.

Step 6: Cut the Scones

Cut the disc into 8 wedges and carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheet, placing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Brush with Egg Wash

Lightly brush each scone with the beaten egg wash.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until they turn light golden brown.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow scones to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar before serving!

How to Serve Chocolate Pecan Scones

Chocolate Pecan Scones are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just enjoying a cozy breakfast at home, these scones can elevate any meal.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve with a side of mixed berries for a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate.
• Add sliced bananas for a creamy texture that complements the crunch of pecans.

Drizzled with Honey

• A drizzle of honey adds natural sweetness and enhances the nutty flavor of the scones.
• Consider using flavored honey, such as lavender or wildflower, for an extra twist.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy your scones with a hot cup of coffee to balance the sweetness and richness of the chocolate.
• Herbal teas, like chamomile or mint, offer a soothing accompaniment that contrasts nicely with the scones’ texture.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream can add an airy lightness to each bite.
• For added flavor, consider folding in some vanilla extract or cinnamon into your whipped cream.

How to Perfect Chocolate Pecan Scones

Perfecting Chocolate Pecan Scones is all about getting the right texture and flavor. Follow these tips to ensure your scones turn out fluffy and delicious every time.

• Use Very Cold Butter: Keeping your butter cold helps create flaky layers in the scone dough.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to prevent tough scones. The dough should look shaggy.
• Knead Gently: Only knead the dough a few times; overworking it will make the scones dense.
• Chill Before Baking: If time permits, refrigerating shaped scones for 20 minutes can improve their rise during baking.
• Watch Baking Time Closely: Ovens vary; check for doneness around 18 minutes. Look for golden edges and a firm center.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Pecan Scones

Pairing side dishes with Chocolate Pecan Scones can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, this makes a refreshing dip for scone pieces.
2. Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits provides brightness and balances the richness of the scones.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy eggs add protein and make your meal more filling without overwhelming flavors.
4. Smoothies: A berry or banana smoothie can be a great way to start your day alongside scones.
5. Mixed Nuts: Serve a small bowl of mixed nuts for crunch and healthy fats that pair well with chocolate.
6. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or mascarpone offer a creamy contrast to the nutty flavor of pecans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chocolate Pecan Scones, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using warm butter: It’s important to use very cold butter when preparing the dough. Warm butter can lead to dense scones instead of flaky ones.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can develop gluten and make your scones tough. Stir until just combined for a lighter scone.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated to 400°F. An incorrect temperature can cause uneven baking.
• Skipping the egg wash: The egg wash gives a beautiful golden color and shine. Don’t skip it if you want your scones to look appealing!
• Ignoring the resting time: Letting your scones rest on the baking sheet before baking helps them rise better. Give them a few minutes!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing Chocolate Pecan Scones

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Chocolate Pecan Scones

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds but be cautious as this can make them chewy.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Chocolate Pecan Scones:

Can I substitute other nuts in Chocolate Pecan Scones?

Yes! You can use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different flavor.

How do I make these scones dairy-free?

You can replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free butter alternatives.

What chocolate should I use for Chocolate Pecan Scones?

Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips based on your preference; both work beautifully!

Can I add fruit to my Chocolate Pecan Scones?

Absolutely! Adding dried fruits like cranberries or cherries can enhance the flavor.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Pecan Scones are a deliciously versatile treat perfect for breakfast or brunch. They are easy to customize with different nuts and chocolates, allowing you to make them your own. Try this recipe today and enjoy these delightful scones fresh out of the oven!