Are you on the hunt for a scrumptious treat to pair with your morning coffee or afternoon tea? Look no further! These delightful lemon scones are just what you need. Not only are they bursting with sweet and tangy flavor, but they also boast a tender crumb that will have you reaching for seconds. And here’s a secret ingredient that takes these lemon scones to the next level: lard. Let’s explore why lard is the perfect addition to your baking arsenal.
The Benefits of Using Lard in Baking:
Superior Texture: Lard’s higher melting point compared to butter means it maintains solidity at room temperature and melts at a higher temperature during baking. This results in lemon scones with a tender, flaky texture that’s hard to achieve with other fats.
Versatility: Lard isn’t just for pie crusts; it’s incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of baked goods, including lemon scones! Its neutral flavor lets the lemony goodness shine through, while its unique fat composition adds unmatched richness.
Improved Shelf Life: Thanks to its high saturated fat content, baked goods made with lard tend to have a longer shelf life than those made with butter or margarine. This means your lemon scones will stay fresher for longer, allowing you to enjoy them for days to come.
Healthier Option: Contrary to popular belief, lard isn’t as unhealthy as it’s been made out to be. When sourced from pastured pigs and rendered properly, lard contains no trans fats and is lower in saturated fats than butter. Plus, it’s a good source of vitamin D, making it a healthier alternative for your baking needs.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of lard, cut into small pieces
- 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Cold water (approximately 1/2 cup, added gradually until the dough comes together)
- Additional lemon juice for brushing
- Additional sugar for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking
2. Mix the Dough: Begin by dumping the 2 cups of flour onto a clean counter. Add the 1/2 cup of lard, then using your fingers or a pastry cutter, cut the lard into the flour until it resembles pea-sized pieces.
3. Add Sweetness: Create a well in the center of the flour and lard mixture, then add the 3/4 cup of sugar. Mix the sugar into the flour until evenly distributed.
4. Incorporate the Lemon: Sprinkle in the 1 teaspoon of baking soda and mix it into the flour mixture.
5. Add Liquid Ingredients: Once combined, create another well in the center of the mixture. Pour in the 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Gradually add cold water, about 1/2 cup, a little at a time, until the dough comes together.
6. Knead Gently: Gently knead the dough until it just comes together. Remember, the secret to tender pastry is to handle it as little as possible.
7. Shape and Cut: Shape the dough into a circle and flatten it slightly. Cut the circle into 8 wedges.
8. Final Touches: Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with additional lemon juice and sprinkle with sugar for a sweet and tangy finish.
9. Bake: Bake the scones in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, allow the scones to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these lemon scones warm or at room temperature with a hot cup of tea or coffee.