Homemade Vanilla Bean Split Scones with Vanilla Glaze

Did you know that vanilla is the world’s second most expensive spice, after saffron? A single vanilla bean pod requires hand pollination and takes up to 9 months to cure properly. This labor of love translates into the extraordinary flavor these vanilla bean scones deliver – making them worth every minute of preparation. Unlike typical coffee shop scones that can be dry and crumbly, these homemade treats strike the perfect balance between tender and flaky.

Buttery Vanilla Bean Scones Recipe

Buttery Vanilla Bean Scones Recipe

These buttery, tender scones are generously speckled with real vanilla beans and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea, offering café-quality results in your own kitchen.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Breakfast

Servings 8 scones

Calories 418 kcal

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter or food processor
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush
• Sharp knife
• Wire cooling rack

Ingredients

  

For the Scones:

• 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 vanilla beans split and scraped
• ¾ cup cold unsalted butter cubed
• 2 large eggs
• ⅔ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

• cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream
• Seeds from ½ vanilla bean
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
• Add vanilla bean seeds to the dry ingredients and whisk to distribute evenly.
• Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or food processor until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
• Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients, stirring just until combined.
• Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead 4-5 times.
• Pat into an 8-inch circle and cut into 8 wedges.
• Place scones 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheet.
• Brush tops with additional heavy cream.
• Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
• Cool completely on wire rack.
• For the glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla bean seeds, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Drizzle glaze over cooled scones.

Notes

Nutrition Facts (per scone) :
– Calories: 420
– Fat: 22g
– Saturated Fat: 13g
– Carbohydrates: 51g
– Protein: 6g
– Fiber: 1g
– Sugar: 23g
– Sodium: 280mg

Keyword brunch, scones, vanilla bean

Variations

These versatile scones can be customized in numerous ways while maintaining their delicate vanilla base. Try adding fresh berries for a fruity twist – raspberries and blueberries work particularly well. For a chocolate lover’s version, fold in mini chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks. You can also experiment with different glazes, such as a maple glaze for fall or a lemon glaze for spring. For a seasonal twist, add warming spices like cinnamon or cardamom to complement the vanilla.

Storage

These scones are best enjoyed the day they’re baked, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze unglazed scones for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. When ready to serve, thaw at room temperature and warm slightly in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes before glazing. The glaze can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Health Benefits

While scones are certainly an indulgence, this recipe offers some nutritional benefits. Vanilla beans contain small amounts of antioxidants and have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. The eggs provide protein and essential nutrients, while heavy cream offers calcium and vitamins A and D. Using real vanilla beans instead of artificial flavoring ensures you’re getting pure, natural ingredients without added chemicals. For a healthier version, you can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour to increase fiber content.

Conclusion

These vanilla bean scones bring the luxury of a high-end bakery into your kitchen, proving that with quality ingredients and proper technique, homemade can be even better than store-bought. The real vanilla beans make all the difference, creating delicate flecks throughout the scones that signal their authentic flavor to anyone lucky enough to enjoy them. Whether served at a special brunch or savored during a quiet moment with tea, these scones are sure to become a treasured recipe in your baking repertoire.