Whole Wheat Scones Recipe

Discover a delightful treat that combines the goodness of whole wheat with the indulgence of freshly baked scones. Yes, you heard it right – whole wheat scones. They are the perfect guilt-free option for treating yourself to something delicious and nutritious.

Why I Love This Recipe

Scones are one of those treats that bake up in no time. When you can make a scone fancy with edible flowers, it takes it to a whole other level of impressiveness. We love making these whole-wheat scones and country whole wheat biscuits because the whole-wheat flour provides a hearty texture and a rich, nutty flavor. Paired with just the right amount of sweetness, these scones strike the perfect balance between healthful and indulgent.

Pansies, which are among some of the first flowers here in the late spring, are popular in salads or in baked goods because of their cheerful color. These scones are well-suited to showcasing the pretty little flowers. Choose brightly-colored blooms for the best results.

If you’re on the hunt for some other healthy and filling breakfasts, look no further than baked oatmeal and Instant Pot Oatmeal. Or try this sweet potato and pepper hash (delicious with a fried egg on top). Then, for another indulgent sweet treat, check out my gluten-free cinnamon roll recipe (my kids ask for this gluten-free recipe over my regular cinnamon rolls).

Tips for Perfect Whole Wheat Scones

When it comes to baking scones, there are a few common mistakes that can lead to disappointing results. To ensure your scones turn out perfectly every time, here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Use Fresh Leavening Agents – Check the expiration dates on your baking powder and baking soda to ensure they are still potent. Fresh ingredients will provide better leavening action.
• Choose the Right Flour – Opt for whole wheat flour specifically designed for scones, like whole wheat pastry flour or finely ground soft wheat flour. This will help achieve a lighter texture. We recommend baking with freshly milled flour if you have the ability.
• Don’t Skip Chilling the Butter – Cold butter is essential for creating light and airy scones. Grating the butter into small pieces and chilling it in the refrigerator before incorporating it into the dough will help create those desirable pockets of buttery goodness.
• Avoid Using Too Much Flour – Adding too much flour to the dough can make your scones heavy and dry. It’s important to measure your flour accurately and avoid packing it into the measuring cup. Spoon the flour into the cup and level it off with a knife for the best results.
• Avoid Overmixing – Overmixing and overworking the dough is one of the most common mistakes when making scones. It can result in a tough and dry texture. To achieve a tender and flaky scone, be sure to mix the ingredients just until they come together.
• Shape With Care – When shaping and handling your scones, lightly pat the dough into a round shape rather than rolling it out with a rolling pin. This will help prevent gluten development and maintain the air pockets in the dough, resulting in a fluffier texture.
• Use the Right Cutting Technique – When it’s time to shape your scones, use a sharp knife. Be gentle and avoid twisting the cutter as you press down. A clean, straight cut will help the scones rise evenly and maintain their shape.
• Don’t Overbake – Oven temperature and baking time can make or break your scones. Preheat your oven to the correct temperature, usually around 450°F. Bake the scones on the middle rack for the recommended time or until they turn golden brown on top. To make sure your scones are moist and tender, check for doneness a couple of minutes before the suggested baking time. They should be lightly golden on the outside and still slightly soft in the center.
• Allow Them to Cool – Resist the temptation to devour your scones hot out of the oven. Let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before indulging. This allows the scones to set, giving them a perfect crumb and preventing them from falling apart.

Variations for Whole Wheat Scones

Get creative with your whole wheat scone recipe by trying out these delicious variations. From fruity options like blueberry and raspberry to the delightful flavors of pumpkin and cranberry, there’s a whole world of flavors to explore while still enjoying the health benefits of whole wheat.

• Pumpkin – Experience the warm and comforting flavors of fall with pumpkin-infused scones. Enhance the dough with pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, pecans (or nuts of choice) and a touch of cloves for a seasonal treat.
• Chocolate – Who doesn’t love a chocolate version? Tossing in chocolate chips gives an added sweetness and a flavor profile that tends to be a crowd favorite.
• Cranberry – Enjoy the tartness of cranberries in these scones, perfect for any time of the year. Incorporate dried cranberries and orange zest into the dough to add a burst of flavor and a festive touch.
• Blueberry – Bursting with juicy blueberries, these scones offer a pop of sweetness in every bite. Mix in fresh or frozen blueberries and cinnamon to the basic whole wheat scone recipe for a vibrant twist. Add some lemon zest to take the flavor to the next level.
• Raspberry – Indulge in the tart and tangy taste of raspberries with these fruity scones. Add fresh or frozen raspberries and lemon zest to the dough to infuse it with a delectable flavor.

Homesteading Hack: Freeze-dried berries work great when you don’t have fresh berries in season. Just be aware that you may need to add a bit more liquid to your scone dough. Or you can rehydrate the berries prior to adding them to the dough.

In the Homestead Kitchen

This recipe was featured in issue No. 32 of In the Homestead Kitchen Magazine. With your subscription, you will receive access to a monthly digital publication full of homesteading tips, recipes, DIY tutorials, and stories to guide and inspire you in your homestead kitchen.

As a bonus, you will receive access to our well-organized video vault with over a hundred in-depth instructional videos to support you as you learn the art of homesteading skills. 

Are you ready to change our culture as we fill our pantries and feed our families? Subscribe today, and you will also lock in your price for the printed version coming in January of 2025!

Supplies Needed

When it comes to baking delicious whole wheat scones, having the right supplies on hand is essential. Here is a list of items you will need to ensure successful baking:

• Mixing Bowl – A large four-quart bowl is ideal for this recipe.
• Pastry Cutter – You can use your hands if you don’t have a pastry cutter, but make sure your hands are cold so that they don’t soften or melt the butter.
• Knife – A dull knife will collapse the sides of your dough, impeding its ability to rise. Use a sharp knife for tender and flaky results.
• Baking Sheet – To create the perfect base for your scones
• Cooling Rack – Don’t be tempted to dig into your scones right out of the oven. They are best when allowed to cool to warm or room temperature.

Ingredients Needed

Before you start baking your delicious whole wheat scones, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients measured and prepped. Here are the key ingredients you’ll need:

• 2 ¼ Cups Whole Wheat Pastry Flour – I love using fresh-milled flour, but store-bought whole wheat pastry flour also works great.
• 1 Tbsp Baking Powder – For best results, make sure your baking powder is fresh.
• 1 ½ Tbsp Sugar – I like to use organic evaporated cane juice, but you can use granulated if that’s what you have on hand.
• ½ tsp Cream of Tartar – Did you know that cream of tartar has many uses beyond recipes? Check out these other uses for cream of tartar in your home!
• ¼ tsp Salt – We like to choose a quality salt like Redmond Real Salt (use that link and add coupon code “HFSalt” at checkout for 15% off your order!)
• ½ Cup Butter, Grated – Learn how to make butter at home three different ways!
• ⅔ Cup Milk – Whole milk will give you the best results.
• 1 Egg, Lightly Beaten – The fresher, the better! Always follow best practices for handling farm fresh eggs.
• 1 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar – Learn how to make homemade apple scrap vinegar here.
• Assorted Fresh Pansies, Stems Removed – This edible garnish is optional but really elevates the presentation of your scones to the next level.
• 2 Egg Whites for Egg Wash – An egg wash additionally enhances the aesthetic appeal and is a critical component of adhering the pansies to the scones.

Step-by-Step Instructions

These scones are light, flaky, and packed with wholesome goodness. Indulge in the deliciousness of homemade whole wheat scones with this easy-to-follow recipe:

1. Preheat oven to 450°F.
2. Mix together flour, baking powder, sugar, cream of tartar, and salt.
3. Cut in your grated butter with a pastry cutter or with cold hands until your mixture looks like coarse cornmeal with an occasional pea in it.
4. Make a well in the center and add the milk, egg, and vinegar.
5. Stir gently until the dough forms a ball.
6. Lightly flour your work surface, turn out your dough, and knead about ten times.
7. Pat your dough out to a circle about ½” thick.
8. Use a sharp knife to cut the circle into eight equal wedges, like slices of pizza.
9. Place scones on a baking sheet and bake for 9 minutes.
10. While the scones are baking, gently wash the pansies in cool water and pat dry.
11. When the 9-minute cook time is up, remove the pan from the oven but leave the oven on.
12. Brush the top of one scone with egg white wash.
13. Place prepared pansies on the coated scone in whatever pattern you choose.
14. Brush the pansies all over with egg wash. Repeat with each scone.
15. If desired, sprinkle scones with sugar.
16. Return scones to the oven and bake for another 3 minutes.
17. Remove the scones from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack.
18. Once the scones are cool, slather with butter or clotted cream and serve with a pot of tea.

How to Store Leftover Scones

Scones are best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-4 days.

You can enjoy the remainder of your flaky whole wheat scones warm or at room temperature. Serve them with a dollop of jam, a drizzle of honey, some sweetened cream or your favorite spread. They make a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack.

Experiment with different add-ins to create your own unique flavor combinations. The possibilities are endless!

Did you make this recipe? If so, please leave a star rating in the recipe card below. Then snap a photo and tag us on social media @homesteadingfamily so we can see your whole wheat scones!

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