Polish Raisin Scones

Polish Raisin Scones Recipe - Delicious Flavors of Poland

Region / culture: Poland | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Raisin scones are a delicious and classic treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. These scones are perfect for pairing with a cup of tea or coffee, and their sweet raisins add a burst of flavor to every bite.

History

Scones have been a popular baked good in the United Kingdom for centuries, with recipes dating back to the early 1500s. The addition of raisins to scones likely originated in Scotland, where dried fruit was commonly used in baking to add sweetness and texture to pastries.

Ingredients

2 cups flour
2 tbsp sugar
2 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp baking soda
0.5 tsp nutmeg
0.5 cup cold butter
1 cup raisins
0.75 cup buttermilk
1 egg white
additional sugar for top

How to prepare

Combine the dry ingredients.
Cut the butter into coarse crumbs.
Stir in the raisins and buttermilk.
Stir just until moistened.
Place the mixture on a floured surface and knead it a few times (6 – 8).
Pat the dough into an 8-inch circle and cut it into 12 wedges.
Place the wedges on a greased cookie sheet.
Beat the egg white until foamy and brush it over the scones.
Sprinkle the scones with sugar.
Bake them at 400°F (204°C) for 15 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

Variations

Substitute the raisins with dried cranberries or chopped nuts for a different flavor profile.
Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or cardamom to the dry ingredients for a spiced scone.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure your butter is cold when cutting it into the dry ingredients to create a flaky texture in the scones.

- Do not overmix the dough, as this can result in tough scones. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

- Brushing the scones with egg white before baking will give them a shiny, golden crust.

- Serve the scones warm for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the scones warm with a dollop of clotted cream and a spoonful of jam for a traditional British treat.

Cooking Techniques

Kneading the dough lightly and patting it into a circle before cutting into wedges helps create a tender scone with a flaky texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use regular milk or a milk alternative in place of buttermilk.

- Margarine can be used instead of butter, but the texture of the scones may be slightly different.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough for these scones can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated overnight. Simply shape and bake the scones when ready to enjoy.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the scones on a decorative platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Polish Raisin Scones with a hot cup of English breakfast tea or a frothy cappuccino for a delightful morning treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the scones in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Polish Raisin Scones contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Polish Raisin Scones contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Polish Raisin Scones contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Polish Raisin Scones contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Raisins are a good source of iron, potassium, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat, dairy, and eggs.

Summary

Polish Raisin Scones are a delicious treat that provide a good source of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals, making them a well-rounded snack or breakfast option.

Summary

Polish Raisin Scones are a delightful baked good that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. With their sweet raisins and flaky texture, these scones are sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were turning vibrant shades of red and gold, and the smell of cinnamon and cloves filled the air. I had just returned from a trip to Poland, where I had the pleasure of sampling some of the most delicious pastries I had ever tasted. One in particular stood out to me - Polish Raisin Scones.

I remember walking through the bustling markets of Krakow, my eyes wide with wonder at the array of pastries on display. I was drawn to a small bakery tucked away in a corner, where an elderly woman with a kind smile was busy kneading dough for scones. I watched in awe as she expertly shaped the dough into perfect triangles, sprinkling raisins and sugar on top before sliding them into the oven. The sweet aroma that wafted from the oven was irresistible, and I knew I had to try one.

I approached the woman and asked her for the recipe, hoping she would share her secrets with me. To my surprise, she smiled warmly and invited me into her kitchen. As we worked side by side, she shared stories of her family and the traditions that had been passed down through generations. She explained that her recipe for Polish Raisin Scones had been handed down to her by her grandmother, who had learned it from her mother before her. It was a cherished family recipe, one that brought comfort and joy to all who tasted it.

I listened intently as she walked me through each step of the process, from mixing the dough to shaping the scones to baking them to golden perfection. She stressed the importance of using good quality ingredients, and taking the time to knead the dough gently to ensure a light and flaky texture. As we worked, she shared tips and tricks that had been passed down to her, such as soaking the raisins in warm water before adding them to the dough to plump them up and enhance their flavor.

Finally, the scones were ready, golden brown and fragrant with cinnamon and cloves. We sat down at her kitchen table and enjoyed them warm from the oven, with a dollop of creamy butter and a cup of strong coffee. The scones were everything I had hoped for - tender and buttery, with a hint of sweetness from the raisins and a subtle spice from the cinnamon and cloves. I savored every bite, knowing that I had stumbled upon a treasure trove of recipes that would bring joy to my family for years to come.

As I bid farewell to the kind woman, she pressed a handwritten copy of the recipe into my hand, urging me to share it with others and keep the tradition alive. I promised her that I would, and as I made my way back home, I knew that I had found not just a recipe, but a connection to a rich culinary heritage that spanned generations.

Since that day, Polish Raisin Scones have become a beloved family favorite, a treat that we look forward to on special occasions and lazy Sunday mornings alike. I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, spreading the joy and warmth that I experienced in that humble bakery in Krakow. Every time I make a batch of scones, I am transported back to that moment, the smell of cinnamon and cloves filling my kitchen and the memory of a kind woman sharing her family's traditions with me. And I am grateful, for the gift of that recipe and the stories that it carries with it.