If you’ve been searching for the ultimate chocolate chip scones recipe, you just struck gold! Imagine warm, buttery scones with golden edges and soft, melt-in-your-mouth centers packed with gooey chocolate chips. These scones are easy to make, require simple ingredients, and are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat.
This recipe transforms ordinary mornings into something special, and the best part? You don’t have to be a pro baker to nail them. All you need is a bowl, a whisk, and about 30 minutes. These chocolate chip scones are slightly crisp on the outside, tender inside, and perfectly balanced between sweet and buttery. No fancy mixers, no intimidating techniques—just good, old-fashioned baking comfort.
So whether you’re planning a cozy family breakfast, a bake-sale showstopper, or simply craving a warm, chocolate-filled bite with your coffee, these chocolate chip scones deliver every time.
What Makes This Chocolate Chip Scones Recipe Special?
- Soft, tender crumb: Each bite is light, fluffy, and melt-in-your-mouth.
- No stand mixer required: Just a bowl, whisk, and some clean hands.
- Versatile treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
- Freezer-friendly: Make a batch, freeze the extras, and bake when you crave them.
- Customizable: Swap chocolate chips for dried fruit, nuts, or flavored chips.
These chocolate chip scones stand out for their simplicity and flavor. With easy-to-follow steps and room for personalization, they’re great for beginners and experienced bakers alike. Plus, you can prepare the dough ahead and bake them fresh anytime—ideal for busy mornings!
Ingredient Notes
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of this recipe. Substitutes: Whole wheat flour for a nuttier texture.
- Granulated sugar: Provides balanced sweetness. Can swap with light brown sugar for a caramel note.
- Baking powder: Helps the scones rise and creates that fluffy texture.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor of both the dough and chocolate.
- Unsalted butter: Cold butter is key for flaky layers. If salted, reduce added salt.
- Heavy cream: Adds richness and moisture. Substitute with buttermilk for a tangy flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor and rounds out the sweetness.
- Chocolate chips: Use semi-sweet for balance, or go dark/milk depending on your preference.
- Optional: A sprinkle of coarse sugar on top for a bakery-style finish.
How To Make Chocolate Chip Scones
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add cold, cubed butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mix looks like coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the chocolate chips evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix heavy cream and vanilla extract. Pour into the flour mixture and gently stir until the dough comes together (avoid overmixing).
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and pat into a 1-inch-thick round. Cut into 8 wedges.
- Place scones on the baking sheet, spacing them apart. Brush with extra cream and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, until golden on the edges. Cool slightly before serving.
Storage Options
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Lasts 5-6 days wrapped tightly.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked wedges and bake straight from frozen, adding 3-4 minutes to bake time.
- Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 20 seconds.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add orange zest for a citrus twist.
- Replace chocolate chips with white chocolate and dried cranberries.
- Make them gluten-free using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty flavor.
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make chocolate chip scones ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the dough, cut the scones, and freeze them. Bake fresh whenever you need.
2. Why is my scone dough too dry or too wet? Flour absorbs moisture differently. If too dry, add a tablespoon of cream; if too wet, sprinkle more flour until manageable.
3. Can I substitute milk for heavy cream? Yes, but the scones will be less rich and slightly drier. Buttermilk is a closer substitute.
4. Why are my scones dense instead of fluffy? Overmixing the dough can make the scones tough. Mix until just combined for tender results.
5. How do I store leftover scones? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for longer shelf life.
6. Can I use salted butter? Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Conclusion
These homemade chocolate chip scones are simple, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for your family or treating yourself, this recipe guarantees warm, chocolaty, buttery goodness in every bite. Give it a try and let your kitchen fill with the cozy aroma of freshly baked scones. Don’t forget to share your results and tag your scone adventures!
Chocolate Chip Scones Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Extra cream and sugar for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
- Stir in chocolate chips.
- Add cream and vanilla, mix until just combined.
- Shape dough into a 1-inch thick circle and cut into 8 wedges.
- Place on sheet, brush with cream, sprinkle sugar.
- Bake for 18-22 mins until golden.
Nutrition
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g