Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones

If you’re looking for a delightful way to brighten your morning, look no further than these Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones! They are the perfect match for your favorite cup of coffee, transforming an ordinary breakfast into something special. With their tender, buttery texture and rich coffee flavor, these scones quickly became a cherished recipe in my home. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a leisurely weekend brunch with friends and family, they never fail to impress.

What makes these scones truly special is their versatility. You can whip them up for a cozy breakfast, serve them at brunch gatherings, or enjoy them as a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee. Trust me; every bite is like a warm hug on a plate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have freshly baked scones in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves chocolate and coffee, making these scones a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the dough in advance and bake whenever you’re ready for warm scones.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of chocolate chips and coffee creates an irresistible taste that will have you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones require simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Let’s gather everything you need!

For the Scones

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 2 tbsp instant espresso powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small pieces)
• ¾ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 large egg (room temperature)

For the Glaze

• 1 tbsp heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1 tsp instant espresso powder
• 1 tbsp brewed coffee (or espresso)
• 1 – 2 tbsp milk or cream (or water)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Try different chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips or even white chocolate for a unique twist.
• Incorporate spices: A pinch of cinnamon can add warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Swap the espresso: If you prefer a milder taste, use regular coffee instead of espresso powder.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Start by combining the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and instant espresso powder in a large bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures that everything is evenly distributed before adding any wet ingredients.

Step 2: Cut in the Butter

Next, cut the cold butter into the dry mixture using a pastry cutter or two forks until coarse crumbs form. This step is crucial as it creates those tender layers we love in scones. Afterward, stir in the mini chocolate chips until they are well combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the vanilla extract and cold heavy cream. Pour this mixture into the center of your butter-flour mixture in two separate parts. Gently mix until just combined; be careful not to overwork the dough.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Turn out your dough onto a lightly floured surface. Fold it over gently just until it comes together—remember, less is more here! Form it into an 8-inch circle for even baking.

Step 5: Cut and Chill

Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut your dough into 8 triangles. Place these triangles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to an hour. Chilling helps them maintain their shape while baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400° F. Brush each chilled scone with egg wash and sprinkle turbinado sugar on top for added crunch and sweetness. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and lovely!

Step 7: Drizzle with Coffee Glaze

While your scones cool on a wire rack, prepare the coffee glaze by mixing sifted powdered sugar, instant espresso granules, brewed coffee (or espresso), and cream (or milk). Adjust with more liquid if needed until you achieve your desired glaze consistency. Drizzle it generously over cooled scones.

Now all that’s left is to brew your favorite coffee and enjoy these delightful Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones with friends or family!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones

Making scones can be a delightful adventure in the kitchen, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones come out perfectly every time!

• Use cold ingredients: Keeping your butter and cream cold helps create those lovely flaky layers that are characteristic of good scones. Warm ingredients can lead to dense and tough scones.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Gently mixing until just combined will keep your scones light and tender. Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour, making them chewy instead of fluffy.

• Keep the dough thick: When shaping your dough into an 8-inch circle, ensure it is not too thin. A thicker dough allows for a better rise in the oven and results in soft scones.

• Chill the dough: Allowing the shaped scone triangles to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking helps them keep their shape and results in a better texture after baking.

• Experiment with add-ins: While chocolate chips are delicious, don’t hesitate to mix things up! Try adding nuts or dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for additional flavor and texture.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones

These Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones are not just tasty; they can also be presented beautifully! Here are some fun ways to serve them that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant touch without overpowering the flavor of the scones.
• Fresh berries: Serve with a side of fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries to add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich scone.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top or on the side makes for a creamy addition that complements the coffee flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Coffee or espresso: Pair your scones with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or espresso to enhance their coffee flavor. The warmth of the drink brings out all the best notes in your baked goods.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the richness of your scones.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a healthy side that complements the sweetness of your scones while adding some tanginess.
• Cheese platter: A selection of soft cheeses pairs well with sweet scones, offering a delightful contrast in flavors for brunch gatherings.

Enjoy crafting these delectable Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones, whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked goodness throughout the week. With a few easy steps, you can have these delightful treats ready to go whenever you need them.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them in the same airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap each cooled scone tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label them with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 350° F and bake the scones on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes.
• If reheating from room temperature, simply warm them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

If you’re curious about making these delicious scones, here are some common questions:

Can I make Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones without espresso powder?

Yes! You can substitute the instant espresso powder with cocoa powder or omit it altogether. Your scones will still be deliciously sweet!

How do I ensure my Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones turn out fluffy?

Make sure not to over-mix the dough when combining wet and dry ingredients. Gentle handling helps keep the texture light and fluffy.

What can I serve with Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones?

These scones pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve them with jam, butter, or cream cheese for added flavor.

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini ones?

Absolutely! Feel free to use regular semi-sweet chocolate chips if that’s what you have on hand; just keep an eye on how many you’re adding.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones as much as I do! They bring together the rich flavors of coffee and chocolate, creating a cozy treat that’s perfect any time of day. Whether you’re enjoying them at breakfast or sharing with friends at brunch, these scones are sure to delight. Happy baking!