Wholesome Goodness: Whole Wheat Scones with Oatmeal and Blueberries
Scones are a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. While traditional scones can be rich and heavy, this recipe offers a healthier and more wholesome alternative. By incorporating whole wheat flour, oatmeal, and blueberries, these scones deliver a satisfying flavor and texture without sacrificing nutritional value. These Whole Wheat Scones with Oatmeal and Blueberries are a perfect way to start your day or enjoy a guilt-free indulgence. They’re packed with fiber, antioxidants, and a delightful combination of flavors that will leave you wanting more. This recipe is easy to follow, even for novice bakers, and yields incredibly delicious scones that are both satisfying and nourishing. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade baking with this delightful recipe!
## Why Whole Wheat, Oatmeal, and Blueberries?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore the benefits of these key ingredients:
* **Whole Wheat Flour:** Unlike refined white flour, whole wheat flour retains the bran and germ of the wheat kernel, making it a rich source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It adds a slightly nutty flavor and a heartier texture to the scones, contributing to a more wholesome and satisfying treat.
* **Oatmeal:** Oatmeal is another excellent source of fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel full for longer. It also adds a subtle chewiness and a comforting flavor to the scones. Using rolled oats provides a more substantial texture compared to quick oats.
* **Blueberries:** These little berries are bursting with antioxidants, which protect your body against damage from free radicals. They also add a delightful sweetness and a pop of juicy flavor to the scones. Fresh or frozen blueberries work equally well in this recipe.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to create these delicious Whole Wheat Scones with Oatmeal and Blueberries. Make sure to have everything measured and ready to go before you start baking!
* **Dry Ingredients:**
* 2 cups whole wheat flour
* 1/2 cup rolled oats
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free option)
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* **Wet Ingredients:**
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* 3/4 cup buttermilk (or milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar)
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* **Add-Ins:**
* 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (if using frozen, do not thaw)
* **Optional Topping:**
* 1 tablespoon milk or cream
* 1 tablespoon granulated sugar or turbinado sugar
## Equipment Needed
* Large mixing bowl
* Pastry blender or food processor
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Baking sheet
* Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
* Wire rack
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions to create perfect Whole Wheat Scones with Oatmeal and Blueberries every time!
**Step 1: Preheat and Prepare**
* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents the scones from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
**Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients**
* In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, rolled oats, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined so that the leavening agents are evenly distributed.
**Step 3: Cut in the Butter**
* Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should be in small pieces, about the size of peas. This creates pockets of fat that will melt during baking, resulting in a flaky texture.
* Alternatively, you can use a food processor. Pulse the dry ingredients and butter together until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to over-process, as this can result in tough scones.
**Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients**
* In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
**Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients to Dry Ingredients**
* Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and result in tough scones. The dough will be slightly sticky.
**Step 6: Fold in the Blueberries**
* Gently fold in the blueberries until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them beforehand, as this can cause them to bleed into the dough.
**Step 7: Shape the Scones**
* Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick.
* Use a sharp knife or a cookie cutter to cut the dough into 8 wedges or rounds. Alternatively, you can use a biscuit cutter to create perfectly shaped scones.
**Step 8: Place on Baking Sheet**
* Carefully transfer the scones to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. This allows for even baking and prevents them from sticking together.
**Step 9: Optional Topping**
* For a golden and slightly crunchy top, brush the tops of the scones with milk or cream and sprinkle with granulated sugar or turbinado sugar.
**Step 10: Bake**
* Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
**Step 11: Cool and Serve**
* Remove the scones from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm with butter, jam, clotted cream, or your favorite toppings. These scones are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
## Tips for Perfect Scones
Here are some tips to ensure your Whole Wheat Scones with Oatmeal and Blueberries turn out perfectly every time:
* **Use Cold Butter:** Cold butter is crucial for creating flaky scones. The cold butter creates pockets of fat that melt during baking, resulting in a light and airy texture.
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing the dough develops the gluten in the flour, leading to tough scones. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined.
* **Handle the Dough Gently:** Be gentle when handling the dough to avoid overworking it. Overworking the dough can also result in tough scones.
* **Use Buttermilk:** Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps to tenderize the scones. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to regular milk.
* **Don’t Thaw Frozen Blueberries:** If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them beforehand, as this can cause them to bleed into the dough and make it too wet.
* **Bake at a High Temperature:** Baking the scones at a high temperature helps them to rise quickly and develop a golden-brown crust.
* **Serve Warm:** Scones are best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave if desired.
## Variations and Additions
This recipe is a great base for experimenting with different flavors and additions. Here are some ideas to get you started:
* **Nuts:** Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds, to the dough for added flavor and texture.
* **Dried Fruit:** Substitute the blueberries with other dried fruits, such as cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a decadent treat. Dark chocolate chips pair well with the whole wheat flour and oatmeal.
* **Lemon Zest:** Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a bright and citrusy flavor.
* **Spices:** Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the dough for a warm and spicy flavor.
* **Glaze:** Drizzle the cooled scones with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness and visual appeal.
* **Savory Scones:** Omit the sugar and blueberries and add savory ingredients such as cheese, herbs, and spices for a savory twist.
## Serving Suggestions
These Whole Wheat Scones with Oatmeal and Blueberries are delicious on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions:
* **Butter:** A classic choice, butter adds richness and flavor to the scones.
* **Jam:** Serve with your favorite jam, such as strawberry, raspberry, or blueberry.
* **Clotted Cream:** A traditional British accompaniment, clotted cream adds a luxurious and creamy texture.
* **Lemon Curd:** Lemon curd adds a bright and tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the scones.
* **Honey:** Drizzle with honey for a natural and healthy sweetener.
* **Fruit Salad:** Serve with a side of fresh fruit salad for a complete and nutritious breakfast or brunch.
* **Yogurt:** Top with yogurt and granola for a healthy and satisfying snack.
* **Tea or Coffee:** Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.
## Storage Instructions
These scones are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh for longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the scones for up to 2 months. To freeze, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw the scones at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or microwave for 20-30 seconds.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
* Calories: Approximately 250-300 per scone (depending on ingredients and serving size)
* Fat: 12-15g
* Saturated Fat: 7-9g
* Cholesterol: 40-50mg
* Sodium: 200-250mg
* Carbohydrates: 35-40g
* Fiber: 4-5g
* Sugar: 8-10g
* Protein: 4-5g
## Conclusion
These Whole Wheat Scones with Oatmeal and Blueberries are a delicious and wholesome treat that you can enjoy any time of day. They’re easy to make, packed with nutrients, and bursting with flavor. With a few simple ingredients and these easy-to-follow instructions, you can create homemade scones that are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the joy of baking with this delightful recipe. Enjoy!