Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to enjoy with your morning coffee, these Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones are just what you need! They’re tender, buttery, and infused with rich coffee flavor, making them the ideal companion for that first sip of your favorite brew. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve whipped up a batch of these scones on busy weekend mornings or served them at family gatherings—they always disappear quickly!

These scones are not just a breakfast staple; they also make a wonderful brunch option or an afternoon pick-me-up. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, each bite offers a cozy warmth that feels like a hug in pastry form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, these scones come together effortlessly.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of chocolate and coffee flavors.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready!
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack alongside tea or coffee.
• Deliciously Indulgent: Each bite is packed with mini chocolate chips and a hint of espresso that elevates your coffee experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these scrumptious scones, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; most of these items are likely already in your pantry!

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 flexible, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Use Different Chips: Swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate or even white chocolate for a twist.
• Flavor Boost: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to give your scones a warm flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream for a dairy-free alternative.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and instant espresso powder. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures that everything is evenly distributed before adding the wet ingredients. This step is key to achieving consistent flavor throughout your scones!

Step 2: Cut in the Butter

Cut the cold butter into the dry mixture using a pastry cutter or two forks until coarse crumbs form. This technique creates those lovely flaky layers we all adore in scones. Be careful not to overwork the dough—just enough until it resembles sand.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Whisk together the vanilla extract and heavy cream separately. Pour this mixture into the center of your flour-butter mix in two parts. Gently mix until just combined; you want to see some flour still showing. Over-mixing can lead to tough scones, which we definitely want to avoid!

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a couple of times until it comes together—remember not to overdo it! Form it into an approximately 8-inch circle. This shape helps ensure even baking.

Step 5: Cut and Chill

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

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 400° F while you wait. Brush each chilled scone with an egg wash and sprinkle turbinado sugar on top for that delightful crunch! Bake them for about 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown. Let them cool on a wire rack—if you can resist nibbling on one right away!

Step 7: Make the Coffee Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together sifted powdered sugar, instant espresso granules, brewed coffee (or espresso), and milk until smooth. If it’s too thick, add more milk until you reach your desired consistency. Drizzle this decadent glaze over your cooled scones and watch them shine!

Now that you’ve perfected these Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones, it’s time to sit back with that cup of coffee and enjoy every last crumb!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones

Baking is all about practice and a few handy tips can make your chocolate chip coffee scones even more delightful!

• Use cold ingredients: Ensuring that your butter and cream are cold helps create that flaky texture we all love in scones. Warm ingredients can lead to a denser, less desirable outcome.

• Don’t overmix the dough: The key to tender scones is to mix just until the dough comes together. Overmixing can lead to tough scones, so be gentle and embrace the rustic look of the dough.

• Chill the dough: Allowing the shaped scones to chill before baking helps them hold their shape and results in a higher rise. This little step makes a big difference in texture!

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to customize your scones by adding nuts, dried fruits, or different types of chocolate. This way, you can put your personal spin on each batch.

• Check for doneness: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your scones as they bake. They should be golden brown but not overly dark; testing with a toothpick can help ensure they’re baked through.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones

These delightful scones are perfect for sharing and can be served in various creative ways that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds sweetness and visual appeal, making each scone look like they belong at a café.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled scones for an extra indulgent touch that complements the chocolate chips inside.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits brightens up the plate and offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the scones.
• Greek yogurt: Serve alongside a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt for added protein and a tangy counterbalance to the sweetness of the scones.
• Coffee or tea: Pair these scones with your favorite coffee or tea. A rich cup of coffee enhances their coffee flavor, while a soothing herbal tea provides a balanced experience.
• Whipped cream: A side of lightly sweetened whipped cream makes for an elegant addition that complements the chocolate chips beautifully.

Enjoy this delightful recipe for Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones, whether you’re serving them at brunch or enjoying them solo with a steaming cup of your favorite brew!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how to store them and keep them fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the scones to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them for up to 1 week.

Freezing

• Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place wrapped scones in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove scones from the freezer and unwrap them.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy fresh from the oven!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delightful scones.

Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso powder in Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones?

Absolutely! While espresso powder adds a rich depth of flavor, you can substitute it with regular coffee granules. Just make sure they are finely ground for the best results.

How do I get my Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones to rise properly?

To ensure your scones rise beautifully, make sure your baking powder is fresh, and handle the dough gently. Overworking it can lead to dense scones, so mix just until combined!

Can I make these Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure that it contains xanthan gum or add a little if it doesn’t.

What types of chocolate can I use in my scones?

You can use semi-sweet, dark, or even milk chocolate chips based on your preference. For a fun twist, try adding some white chocolate chips along with mini semi-sweet ones!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Chocolate Chip Coffee Scones as much as I do! They’re not just a treat; they’re a wonderful way to bring warmth and comfort into your mornings or afternoon breaks. Enjoy each bite paired with your favorite coffee, and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family! Happy baking!