Banana Scones

These Banana Scones are a delightful treat that can elevate any occasion, from breakfast to afternoon tea. With their soft texture and rich banana flavor, they are incredibly easy to make in under 30 minutes. Whether you enjoy them on a cozy morning with coffee or serve them at a gathering, these scones are sure to impress. The best part? They are customizable – add your favorite nuts, a drizzle of maple glaze, or even some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra touch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just three main ingredients, you’ll whip these up in no time.
• Vegan-Friendly: These scones cater to plant-based diets while still being delicious.
• Customizable: Add nuts or chocolate to suit your taste preferences.
• Oil-Free: A healthier option without compromising flavor or texture.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for breakfast, brunch, or snacks.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowl
• Fork or stand mixer
• Measuring cups
• Cookie cutter
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining ingredients effectively.
• Cookie Cutter: Helps shape the scones uniformly for even baking.
• Baking Sheet: Provides the right surface for baking without sticking.

Ingredients

These Banana Scones are easy 3-ingredient vegan banana bread scones. They are easy to make in less than 30 minutes, oil-free, and easy to customize by adding nuts, maple glaze, or chocolate chips.

Ingredients:
– 3 1/2 cups Self-Rising Flour (+ 1/4 cup to work the dough)
– 1 1/3 cup Mashed Banana (a bit less than 3 large bananas)
– 2/3 cup Vanilla Plant-Based Yogurt (+ a bit more to brush on top of the scones)
– 1/2 cup Dairy-Free Dark Chocolate Chips (or chopped pecans, walnuts)
– 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
– 1/4 cup Unrefined Sugar

How to Make Banana Scones

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly oil it with cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas using a fork or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment until smooth.

Step 3: Measure the Mashed Bananas

Pack the mashed bananas into a measuring cup until you have 1 cup + 1/3 cup of mashed bananas.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the mashed bananas to the mixing bowl. Add in the vanilla plant-based yogurt and self-rising flour. If you’re including optional ingredients, now is the time to add cinnamon and sugar.

Step 5: Mix and Knead Dough

Start by stirring with a spoon. Then flour your hands and knead the dough until it forms a sticky yet crumbly texture. Don’t worry if it looks rough; that’s perfectly normal!

Step 6: Fold In Extras (Optional)

If you’re using chocolate chips or nuts, fold them into the dough at this stage.

Step 7: Prepare for Cutting

Clean your hands if they’re messy. Lightly oil them with olive oil to prevent sticking. Also oil your cookie cutter.

Step 8: Shape the Dough

Sprinkle about two tablespoons of flour on your work surface. Place the dough on it and flatten it into roughly a 0.8-inch thickness using your hands or a rolling pin.

Step 9: Cut Out Scones

Use your cookie cutter (5 cm) to cut out pieces of dough.

Step 10: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place each cut-out scone onto your prepared baking sheet with some space between each piece since they will expand while baking.

Step 11: Rework Leftover Dough

Gather any leftover dough pieces, press them together gently, roll out again, and cut more scones as needed.

Step 12: Brush Tops with Yogurt

Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the top of each scone with extra yogurt before baking.

Step 13: Bake Until Golden

Bake on the center rack for about 15 to 17 minutes until they turn golden brown on top.

Step 14: Cool Down

Once baked, transfer your scones to a cooling rack and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously moist Banana Scones!

How to Serve Banana Scones

Banana scones are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, these scones can be customized to suit your taste preferences and occasion.

With Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Serve with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of freshness.
• Banana slices: Enhance the banana flavor by adding fresh banana slices on top.

With Spreads

• Nut Butter: Spread almond butter or peanut butter for a protein-packed option.
• Maple Syrup: Drizzle pure maple syrup over the warm scones for added sweetness.

With Dairy-Free Options

• Plant-Based Yogurt: Pair with vanilla-flavored plant-based yogurt for a creamy texture.
• Coconut Whipped Cream: Top with coconut whipped cream for a rich and indulgent treat.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Fruit Salad: Serve alongside a refreshing fruit salad to balance the flavors.
• Smoothie: Pair with your favorite smoothie for a filling meal.

How to Perfect Banana Scones

Perfecting banana scones is about mastering the technique and selecting the right ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your scones come out just right.

• Bold choice of bananas: Use overripe bananas; they provide natural sweetness and moisture.
• Bold flour measurement: Be precise with self-rising flour measurements to achieve the right texture.
• Bold handling of dough: Avoid over-kneading; this keeps your scones light and airy.
• Bold temperature: Preheat the oven properly; this ensures even baking and browning.
• Bold additions: Experiment with add-ins like nuts or dairy-free chocolate chips for variety.
• Bold cooling time: Allow scones to cool slightly before serving; this enhances their flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Scones

Banana scones pair beautifully with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options to consider when serving them.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and nutrition.
2. Chia Seed Pudding: Creamy chia pudding offers a healthy contrast in texture and flavor.
3. Oatmeal Bowl: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts and fruits provides heartiness.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layered plant-based yogurt with granola and berries creates a delightful mix.
5. Herbal Tea: A cup of soothing herbal tea enhances the experience with its calming aroma.
6. Nutty Granola Bars: Crunchy granola bars offer an on-the-go option that complements the scones well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Banana Scones can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Ignoring the Dough Consistency: The dough should be sticky and crumbly. If it’s too dry, your scones will not have the right texture. Always ensure you measure your ingredients accurately for best results.
• Overworking the Dough: Kneading too much can lead to tough scones. Mix just until combined and avoid excessive handling to keep them light and fluffy.
• Skipping the Flour on Hands: Not using flour on your hands when handling the dough can cause it to stick. This makes it harder to shape the scones. Flour your hands generously as you work with the dough.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unheated oven can lead to uneven cooking and scones that don’t rise properly. Always preheat your oven before placing the scones inside.
• Cutting Too Close Together: When cutting out the scones, leaving little space between them can affect how they rise. Make sure to leave enough room for each piece to expand during baking.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Banana Scones in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Banana Scones

• Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Banana Scones

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use medium power for 15-30 seconds, checking frequently so they don’t become too hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Banana Scones gluten-free?

You can substitute self-rising flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure it includes a leavening agent for best results.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to my Banana Scones?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit when mixing your ingredients for extra flavor and texture.

How do I store leftover Banana Scones?

Leftover scones should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated if you prefer them chilled.

What is the best way to customize Banana Scones?

You can customize by adding spices like nutmeg, using different types of plant-based yogurt, or drizzling with maple glaze after baking.

Can I make these Banana Scones without sugar?

Yes! You can omit sugar entirely or replace it with natural sweeteners like mashed dates or applesauce according to your preference.

Conclusion

These Banana Scones are quick, easy, and versatile. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, they offer a delightful taste with endless customization options. Whether you choose to add nuts or enjoy them plain, these scones are sure to please everyone!