If you think scones are dry or difficult to make, these Lemon Poppy Seed Scones will completely change your mind. Made with heavy cream and melted butter, they bake up incredibly tender with a soft crumb and bright citrus flavor. A simple lemon glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, making these scones ideal for brunch spreads, tea parties, or a sweet morning treat.
Ingredients
For the Scones
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Butter, melted | 8 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Sugar | 6 tablespoons |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon |
| Poppy seeds | 1½ tablespoons |
| Baking powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Lemon zest | Zest of 1 lemon |
For the Glaze
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | 2 cups |
| Milk or half-and-half | 3–4 tablespoons |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 12 scones
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft and moist lemon poppy seed scones topped with a bright lemon glaze. Easy bakery-style scones perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
1 cup heavy cream
8 tbsp butter, melted
2 cups all-purpose flour
6 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 1/2 tbsp poppy seeds
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
Zest of 1 lemon
2 cups powdered sugar
3–4 tbsp milk or half-and-half
1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
1. Chill cream and melt butter.
2. Mix dry ingredients with lemon zest.
3. Combine cream and butter, then mix into dry ingredients.
4. Scoop dough and chill briefly.
5. Bake until golden.
6. Prepare glaze and drizzle over scones.
Notes
Do not overmix dough.
Chill dough for best shape.
Adjust glaze consistency as needed.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Step-by-Step Instructions and Helpful Tips
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the oven rack in the middle position. Measure the heavy cream and place it in the freezer for 10 minutes to chill.
Helpful tip: Cold cream helps create tender scones.
Step 2
Melt the butter in the microwave until fully melted and set aside to cool slightly. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cornstarch, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and lemon zest until evenly combined.
Helpful tip: Whisking distributes the leavening evenly.
Step 3
Remove the chilled cream from the freezer and stir it into the melted butter using a fork until small clumps form. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and gently stir with a spatula until just combined. The dough will be thick.
Helpful tip: Do not overmix or the scones may become dense.
Step 4
Scoop the dough into mounds on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Refrigerate the unbaked scones for at least 15 minutes.
Helpful tip: Chilling helps the scones hold their shape.
Step 5
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the scones are lightly golden. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool. While the scones bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and lemon juice until smooth and pourable. Spoon the glaze over the cooled scones and allow it to set before serving.
Helpful tip: Adjust glaze thickness with more sugar or milk as needed.
Conclusion
These Lemon Poppy Seed Scones are soft, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. With their bright lemon flavor and tender crumb, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you want a bakery-style treat at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these scones dry?
No, they are very moist and tender thanks to the cream and butter.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, bake them a day ahead and glaze before serving.
Can I freeze the scones?
Yes, freeze unglazed scones and glaze after thawing.
Do I have to chill the dough?
Chilling is recommended for the best texture and shape.