Vegan Lemon Poppy Scones Recipe

Flour: The base of the scones, providing structure and texture.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the scones.

Baking powder: Helps the scones rise and become fluffy.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Poppy seeds: Adds a delightful crunch and a subtle nutty flavor.

Coconut oil: Used as a vegan alternative to butter, providing moisture and richness.

Almond milk: A plant-based milk that helps bind the ingredients together.

Lemon zest: Adds a fresh, zesty flavor to the scones.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of sweetness.

When incorporating the coconut oil into the dry ingredients, ensure it is solid and cold. This will help create a flaky texture in the scones. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to quickly cut the oil into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This technique prevents the oil from melting too quickly, which is crucial for achieving the desired consistency.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the scones denser.

• sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar for each teaspoon of baking powder to achieve a similar leavening effect.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a slightly different mineral profile and flavor.

• poppy seeds - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds offer a similar texture and additional omega-3 fatty acids.

• coconut oil, solid - Substitute with vegan butter: Vegan butter can provide a more traditional buttery flavor and texture.

• unsweetened almond milk - Substitute with unsweetened soy milk: Soy milk has a higher protein content and a creamier texture.

• lemon zest - Substitute with lime zest: Lime zest offers a similar citrusy flavor with a slightly different tang.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a nutty and aromatic flavor that complements the scones.

• To keep your vegan lemon poppy scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for up to 2-3 days.
• For longer storage, place the scones in an airtight container and refrigerate. This will extend their freshness for up to a week.
• If you want to enjoy these scones over a longer period, freezing is a great option. First, let the scones cool completely after baking.
• Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Place the wrapped scones in a freezer-safe bag or container, making sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of their freshness. The scones can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• When you're ready to enjoy a frozen scone, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about an hour.
• For a freshly baked taste, reheat the thawed scones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
• If you prefer a quicker option, you can also microwave the scones on a microwave-safe plate for 20-30 seconds, though this may slightly alter the texture.
• Enjoy your vegan lemon poppy scones with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat any time of day!

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. Warm them for about 10 minutes or until they are heated through. This method helps maintain the scones' crispy exterior and tender interior.

• Microwave Method: Place a scone on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. This method is quick but may make the scones slightly softer.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scones directly on the rack or on a small baking sheet. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking frequently to ensure they don't over-brown. This method is great for achieving a crispy texture.

• Steaming Method: If you prefer a softer texture, you can steam the scones. Place a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water. Wrap the scones in a clean kitchen towel and place them in the steamer basket. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes. This method keeps the scones moist and tender.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Place the scones in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are warming evenly. This method gives a nice, crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft.

• Oven: Used to bake the scones at 400°F (200°C) until they are golden brown.

• Baking sheet: Lined with parchment paper, this is where the scones will be placed for baking.

• Parchment paper: Prevents the scones from sticking to the baking sheet and makes for easy cleanup.

• Large mixing bowl: Used to combine the dry ingredients like flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds.

• Whisk: Helps to evenly mix the dry ingredients together.

• Pastry cutter: Used to cut the solid coconut oil into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

• Small bowl: For mixing the almond milk, lemon zest, and vanilla extract together.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, sugar, and almond milk.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the baking powder, salt, poppy seeds, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.

• Spatula: Useful for stirring the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined.

• Floured surface: A lightly floured surface is needed to shape the dough into a circle.

• Knife: Used to cut the dough into 8 wedges.

• Cooling rack: Allows the scones to cool slightly before serving.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients in advance to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Quickly cut the coconut oil into the flour mixture by pulsing in a food processor.

Chill the dough: Prepare the dough ahead of time and chill it in the fridge. This makes it easier to handle and shape.

Batch baking: Double the recipe and freeze half the scones for a quick bake later.

Preheat the oven: Start preheating the oven before you begin mixing to save time.