Wholesome Whole Grain Scones with Irresistible Maple Butter: A Quick & Healthy Recipe
Imagine a warm, fluffy scone, fresh from the oven, with a delicate crust and a tender, moist interior. Now imagine that scone is made with wholesome whole grains, offering a healthier twist without sacrificing any of the comforting flavor or texture you crave. This isn’t a dream; it’s a reality, and you can achieve it in just 20 minutes with our incredible Whole Grain Scones recipe, perfectly complemented by a luscious, creamy Maple Butter.
These delightful whole grain scones are so good, even the pickiest eaters (yes, my kids included!) won’t guess they’re a healthier option. Their light texture and subtle sweetness make them an instant hit, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. The secret? A thoughtful blend of whole wheat flour and old-fashioned oats, combined with a touch of olive oil for an unbelievably moist result, all without the fuss of cutting in cold butter.
A Year of Passion and Purpose: My Blogging Journey
It feels like just yesterday I was celebrating a special milestone: my one-year “bloggerversary!” One full year of sharing recipes, stories, and culinary adventures on the internet. While many bloggers mark such an occasion with grand gestures like elaborate cakes or giveaways, my celebration was much quieter, yet deeply meaningful. I spent the day at home, surrounded by the comforting aromas of baking, reflecting on this incredible journey.
Looking back to that first hesitant step, I realize I began with a healthy dose of naivety and a significant lack of understanding about the world of food blogging. To be honest, there are still days I feel a bit clueless, a sentiment likely shared by many in a digital landscape that is constantly evolving. Despite my initial unpreparedness, this past year has shown me that I’ve stumbled upon something truly special. This blog has become “my thing” – a passion I love and, if I may say so, something I’ve grown surprisingly good at. And that, in itself, is an awesome feeling.
The most rewarding aspect of this blogging adventure isn’t about metrics or personal accolades; it’s the sheer joy and excitement I see in my children. There’s nothing more fulfilling than watching their eyes light up when they come home from school, eager to taste-test the latest recipe. Whether they’re helping me stir in the kitchen, carefully arranging props for photos, or simply offering their honest feedback, these shared moments are truly priceless. No spike in page views, no viral pin can compare to the memories we’re creating together through this culinary journey.
As I reflected on the day and considered what recipe truly deserved to mark such an occasion, I had a mini-epiphany. Starting this blog has been one of the most profound life lessons I could teach my kids. After years of seeing me dedicate myself to being a stay-at-home mom, they’ve now witnessed me “shake off the dust,” take a significant leap of faith, and actively pursue a dream. They’ve watched me research, study, and work tirelessly to learn the intricate ins and outs of blogging. They’ve seen me take on additional housekeeping jobs to fund essential photography equipment. This journey has not only transformed me but has also filled them with immense pride. Yes, I know, I’m getting a little sentimental, but it’s true.
I used to play roller derby, and a common saying among my fellow derby girls was, ‘roller derby saved my soul.’ Of course, it didn’t literally save souls, but it had a powerful way of making you dig deep, discover your inner strength, and reveal the raw grit and power you never knew you possessed. While I loved roller derby, it wasn’t my soul-saver. Perhaps, though, this little blog of mine, and my ongoing quest to find and share the perfect scone, just might be.
The Perfect Scone: Wholesome, Quick, and Delicious
Which brings us to these sensational scones. I chose to bake scones for this special occasion because my Instant Oatmeal Scones were the very first recipe I ever published on Accidental Happy Baker, and they’ve remained a personal favorite to bake. While I may not be English, I can certainly appreciate a perfectly baked scone paired with a steaming cup of Earl Grey tea – it’s a match made in heaven.
Why These Whole Grain Scones Stand Out
- Healthy & Wholesome: Made with whole wheat flour and old-fashioned oats, these scones pack in fiber and nutrients, making them a more nutritious choice than their refined counterparts.
- Incredibly Moist & Tender: Thanks to buttermilk and a surprising ingredient – olive oil – these scones boast an unbelievably moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
- No Cutting in Butter: Forget the tedious process of cutting cold butter into flour! This recipe uses olive oil, simplifying the preparation and contributing to a lighter texture and healthier fat profile.
- Lightning Fast: From start to finish, these scones are ready in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings or an impromptu treat.
- Family Approved: Even discerning palates won’t detect the “healthy” secret, ensuring these are a hit with everyone.
The simplicity of this recipe is truly remarkable. With no need for cold butter, the dough comes together in a matter of minutes. While your scones are baking to a light golden brown, you’ll whip up the star accompaniment: a rich and creamy maple butter. The moment those warm scones emerge from the oven, slather them generously with this sweet, spiced butter, and you’ll understand what pure heaven tastes like.
Tips for Scone Success
- Don’t Overmix: The key to tender scones is minimal handling of the dough. Mix until just combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough scones.
- Buttermilk Substitute: No buttermilk on hand? No problem! You can easily make your own by adding 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a 1/2 cup measuring cup, then filling the rest with milk (any kind). Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it curdles slightly.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg and buttermilk are at room temperature for better incorporation into the dough, leading to a smoother texture. For the maple butter, softened butter is crucial for a creamy, whip-able spread.
- Shaping & Cutting: Gently pat the dough into a 6-inch round, about 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife to cut it into 6 wedges. Avoid twisting the knife or dough, which can seal the edges and inhibit rising.
- Serve Warm: Scones are always best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, especially when paired with the melting maple butter.
Delicious Variations to Try
While these whole grain scones are perfect as is, they also serve as an excellent base for various additions:
- Dried Fruits: Fold in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots for a burst of fruity sweetness.
- Nuts: Add 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Grate in the zest of one lemon or orange for a bright, aromatic lift.
- Spice It Up: Enhance the pumpkin pie spice in the maple butter, or add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg directly to the scone dough.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
These whole grain scones are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them:
- For a wholesome breakfast with coffee or tea.
- As part of a beautiful brunch spread.
- A delightful afternoon snack.
- With fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt for a light dessert.
Storage: Leftover scones can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply warm them in a toaster oven or microwave until heated through.
Whole Grain Scones
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Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup old fashioned oats
- 3 Tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 Tablespoon baking powder
- pinch of salt
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (, softened to room temperature)
- 1 Tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons maple syrup
- 1/8 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
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Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or spray generously with nonstick cooking spray.
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In a medium-sized bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk briefly to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
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In a separate small bowl, whisk together the large egg, olive oil, and buttermilk with a fork until well combined. Pour this liquid mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spoon or your hands until a crumbly dough forms. Knead the dough briefly in the bowl, just 1-3 times, until it mostly comes together into a cohesive ball. Be careful not to overmix!
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Turn the dough out onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently pat it into a round shape, approximately 6 inches in diameter and about 1 inch thick. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 6 equal wedges. You can separate them slightly on the baking sheet for more even browning, or leave them touching.
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Bake for 15 minutes, or until the tops of the scones are lightly browned and a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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While the scones are baking, prepare the maple butter. In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice. Beat with a fork or electric mixer until light, fluffy, and well combined.
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Serve the warm whole grain scones immediately with a generous spread of the creamy maple butter. Enjoy!
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