Spiced Pear and Ginger Scones with Cardamom Whipped Cream
Yields: 12 scones Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Scones:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and diced
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg yolk, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup peeled and diced pears
For the Cardamom Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Whisk dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cardamom, and salt.
Cut in butter: Add the cold diced butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry blender, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in pears: Gently fold the diced pears into the dough.
Shape scones: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently for 30 seconds. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick circle. Use a sharp knife or biscuit cutter to cut out twelve scones.
Bake: Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Make cardamom whipped cream: While the scones are baking, whip the heavy cream in a chilled bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and ground cardamom, whipping until stiff peaks form.
Serve: Allow the scones to cool slightly before serving. Top with the cardamom whipped cream and enjoy warm.