Banana Bread Scones

Banana Bread Scones combine the beloved flavors of traditional banana bread with the flaky texture of scones, offering a unique and delightful baked good that is perfect for any occasion. With notes of warm cinnamon and nutmeg, these scones are soft and tender on the inside while maintaining a slightly crispy exterior. The addition of ripe bananas not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the scones moist, making every bite a delicious experience.

this recipe

What You’ll Need for Banana Bread Scones

Complete Ingredients List

• 1 C white whole wheat flour
• 1 1/4 C all-purpose flour
• 1/3 C brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 C unsalted butter, cold and cut into pieces
• 2 ripe bananas, about 1 cup mashed
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tbsp water
• 2 tbsp sugar (for topping)
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon (for topping)
• 1/2 C confectioner’s sugar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-3 tsp milk

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

• Flour Swaps: For gluten-free scones, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. For a lighter option, you can use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour.

• Dairy-Free Option: Replace unsalted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. Use unsweetened almond or soy milk in place of regular milk for the glaze.

• Sweetener Alternatives: You can swap the brown sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie option.

• Flavor Variations: Add chocolate chips or nuts for a crunchy texture, or try incorporating dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots for additional sweetness and flavor.

How to Make Banana Bread Scones

Creating Banana Bread Scones is a straightforward process that brings together simple ingredients to create a delicious treat. Let’s walk through it step by step.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a baking mat to prevent the scones from sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the white whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure to blend well so that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Next, add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving the flaky texture characteristic of scones.

Step 4: Combine with Wet Ingredients

Once the butter is cut in, stir in the mashed bananas and lightly beaten egg. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can lead to tough scones.

Step 5: Kneading and Shaping the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead gently for about 5-6 times, just until it comes together. Shape the dough into an 8-inch circle. Brush the top lightly with water.

Step 6: Add the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of your shaped dough.

Step 7: Cut and Bake

Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 8 pieces (like a pizza). Carefully transfer the scones onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until they are light golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze

Once baked, transfer the scones to a wire rack to cool. In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioner’s sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, and milk to create a glaze. Drizzle this over the cooled scones before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Banana Bread Scones

How to Serve Banana Bread Scones

Banana Bread Scones are best served warm or at room temperature. To achieve the ideal serving temperature, allow them to cool slightly on the wire rack before drizzling with glaze. If desired, you can cut each scone in half for easier handling during serving.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

For a delightful breakfast or snack, serve these scones alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a smoothie. Consider adding toppings such as honey or a spread of almond butter for added flavor.

Storing & Preserving Banana Bread Scones

Best Storage Methods

To keep your Banana Bread Scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about 2-3 days. For longer preservation, you can refrigerate them, but they are best when enjoyed fresh.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

If you need to reheat your scones, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes. If you choose to freeze them, wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to 2 months. To defrost, remove from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature or reheat directly from frozen.

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread Scones Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Overmixing the Dough: A gentle touch is key when mixing the dough. Overmixing can lead to dense scones.

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven thoroughly to ensure even baking. An uncalibrated oven can yield inconsistent results.

• Using Warm Ingredients: Make sure your butter is cold, which helps create that desired flaky texture.

Helpful Tricks for Success

• Room Temperature for Egg: While the egg should be lightly beaten, bringing it to room temperature can help it incorporate more smoothly.

• Fresh Bananas: Use perfectly ripe bananas for the best sweetness and moisture. The more spots on the banana, the sweeter it will be!

• Parchment Paper: Using parchment paper can help prevent the scones from sticking, ensuring an easier cleanup.

Fun Variations of Banana Bread Scones

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

• Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for a satisfying crunch.

• Chocolate Lovers: Fold in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to elevate the treat.

• Zesty Citrus: Add the zest of an orange or lemon for a refreshing twist.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

• Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative, and replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tbsp water, let sit for 5-10 minutes).

• Sugar-Free Option: Use a sugar substitute suitable for baking, such as stevia or erythritol, and adjust to taste.

FAQs

What If My Banana Bread Scones Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

If your scones turned out too dry, it could be due to overmixing or adding too much flour. Make sure to accurately measure your flour and incorporate it gently. If they didn’t rise, check your baking powder and baking soda for potency; they should be fresh for optimal leavening.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time. Shape it into a circle, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to a day. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice and bake directly from the refrigerator, adding a minute or two to the baking time if necessary.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

For the flour, you could use oats ground into flour or an appropriate gluten-free blend. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can substitute it with granulated sugar mixed with a tablespoon of molasses for the same flavor profile. If you don’t have ripe bananas, applesauce can be used as a substitute for moisture, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Print