There is something absolutely irresistible about a freshly baked batch of scones, especially when they are as vibrant and flavorful as this Stunning Matcha White Chocolate Scones Recipe. This recipe combines the earthy, calming essence of matcha green tea powder with the sweet, creamy bursts of white chocolate chips, creating a delightful balance that feels both sophisticated and comforting. Soft, flaky, and wonderfully aromatic, these scones are perfect for an indulgent breakfast or a tea-time treat that will impress anyone lucky enough to try them. Let me take you through this easy yet stunning recipe that brings bakery-quality goodness right into your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started on these scones is a breeze thanks to a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s the matcha powder adding that beautiful green color and unique flavor, or the cold butter creating the perfect flaky texture. Here’s what you’ll need to achieve the perfect scone every time.
- 2 cups all purpose flour: The foundation of your scones, providing structure and tenderness when combined with fat and liquid.
- 5 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the matcha’s slight bitterness without overpowering it.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: The leavening agent that helps your scones rise beautifully and become fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons matcha powder: This is the star ingredient, giving those scones their stunning green hue and earthy tea flavor.
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes: Key for flaky layers and richness, the butter must be cold to work its magic.
- â…” cup half and half: Provides moisture and richness without being too heavy.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla: A touch of warmth and sweetness to complement the matcha’s flavor.
- ½ cup mini white chocolate chips: Little bursts of creamy sweetness throughout each bite.
- 1 tablespoon half and half (for brushing tops): Helps achieve a golden, shiny finish on your scones.
How to Make Stunning Matcha White Chocolate Scones Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your scones won’t stick and crisp up beautifully. A hot oven is essential for creating that puff and flaky texture we all love in scones.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and matcha powder. This step evenly distributes the vibrant green matcha powder with the other dry ingredients, creating a consistent flavor and color throughout your scones.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it in until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs with some small butter chunks visible. These chunks of butter will melt in the oven, creating those delightful flaky layers that make every bite melt in your mouth.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients and Mix
Pour in the half and half along with the vanilla extract. Stir just until the dough comes together and looks shaggy — don’t overmix! Overworking scone dough can result in a tough texture, and we want tender and soft instead.
Step 5: Fold in White Chocolate Chips
Gently fold the mini white chocolate chips into the dough. The chips provide sweet, creamy pops in every bite and contrast beautifully with the subtle bitterness of matcha.
Step 6: Shape and Cut the Dough
Turn your dough out onto a lightly floured surface, knead it gently 5 to 6 times to ensure everything holds together, and pat it into an 8-inch round about 1 inch thick. Cut the circle into 8 evenly sized wedges. Spacing them about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet allows heat to circulate so they bake evenly.
Step 7: Brush and Bake
Brush the tops of each wedge with the remaining tablespoon of half and half. If you want a little sparkle, sprinkle with a touch of sugar here. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the scones are delightfully puffed and their edges are just turning golden.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the scones from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving. This cooling step lets them set just enough, making them easy to handle and enhancing their flaky texture.
How to Serve Stunning Matcha White Chocolate Scones Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Stunning Matcha White Chocolate Scones Recipe, consider a delicate dusting of matcha powder or a gentle drizzle of white chocolate glaze. Fresh edible flowers or a sprinkle of crunchy sugar crystals also makes for a stunning presentation that invites guests to indulge right away.
Side Dishes
These scones pair beautifully with classic accompaniments like clotted cream or a silky lemon curd to add a tangy counterpoint. A hot cup of green tea or jasmine tea also complements the matcha flavor, making your tea-time extra special.
Creative Ways to Present
For an unforgettable brunch, serve these scones on a tiered cake stand alongside fresh fruit and delicate pastries. Pack them into a rustic basket with lace napkins for a charming picnic, or slice and serve with flavored butters like honey cinnamon or yuzu citrus for a unique twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any scones left, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain freshness. If your kitchen is warm, the fridge is fine but bring them to room temp before enjoying for the best texture.
Freezing
These scones freeze wonderfully. Place cooled scones in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 3 months so you can enjoy your Stunning Matcha White Chocolate Scones Recipe anytime you crave a special treat.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or stored scones in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes until warm and just crispy on the outside. Avoid microwaving as it can make the scones tough or chewy instead of soft and flaky.
FAQs
Can I substitute the half and half with milk?
Absolutely! Whole milk works well too, though half and half will give a richer, more tender crumb. If you only have milk, your scones will still be delicious but slightly less rich.
What type of matcha powder should I use?
For best flavor and color, choose a culinary-grade matcha powder. It’s designed for baking and cooking and has a good balance of flavor without being overly bitter or grassy.
Can I make these scones gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum or another binder to mimic the structure flour provides. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delightful.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
You can replace butter with vegan butter and use a plant-based milk with a bit of oil or vegan cream substitute for the half and half. Use dairy-free white chocolate chips to complete the vegan version.
How do I get the perfect flaky texture?
The key is to keep your butter cold and not overmix the dough. When you bake, the small butter chunks steam, creating those tender layers you’re craving in your scones.
Final Thoughts
I couldn’t recommend this Stunning Matcha White Chocolate Scones Recipe more if you want to impress your friends or just treat yourself to something truly special. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a standout in any scone lineup, and the ease of making them from scratch means you don’t have to wait for a bakery run. Grab your ingredients, start baking, and get ready for a moment of pure delight with every bite.
Print
Stunning Matcha White Chocolate Scones Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft and flaky matcha white chocolate scones bursting with rich green tea flavor and sweet white chocolate chips, perfect for a delightful bakery-style treat made easily at home.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons matcha powder
Wet Ingredients and Add-ins
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- â…” cup half and half
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup mini white chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon half and half (for brushing tops)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and matcha powder until the mixture is evenly combined for a uniform flavor and leavening.
- Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with visible buttery bits, which creates a flaky texture.
- Add Wet Ingredients and Form Dough: Stir in â…” cup of half and half along with the vanilla extract just until a soft, shaggy dough forms. Be careful not to overmix to keep the scones tender.
- Fold in White Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the mini white chocolate chips into the dough, distributing them evenly without overworking the dough.
- Knead Dough Lightly: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently 5 to 6 times until it just holds together, ensuring the formation of a cohesive dough without overdevelopment.
- Shape and Cut Dough: Pat the dough into an 8-inch diameter round shape about 1 inch thick. Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the dough into 8 equal wedges.
- Arrange and Brush: Place the scone wedges 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the remaining tablespoon of half and half, and optionally sprinkle lightly with sugar for a subtle crunch and shine.
- Bake: Bake the scones for 12 to 15 minutes until they are puffed up and lightly golden on top, indicating they are fully cooked and flaky.
- Cool Before Serving: Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack before serving to allow the scones to set and enhance texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure butter is very cold to achieve a flaky texture in scones.
- Do not overmix or over-knead the dough to keep scones tender.
- Optionally sprinkle extra sugar on top before baking for added sweetness and crunch.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, delicious with butter or clotted cream.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
