Delicious and Healthy Scones (Makes 8)

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Delicious and Healthy Scones (Makes 8)
This recipe creates light and fluffy scones that are perfect for a satisfying breakfast or snack. They are packed with flavor and come in three delicious varieties: classic, herby cheese, and lime & ginger.

About Time:

  • Prpe Time: 10 mins.
  • Cook Time: 15 mins.
  • Total Time: 25 mins.
  • Yield: (Makes 8)

Ingredients:

Dry:

  • 125g wholemeal self-raising flour
  • 100g extra-fine self-raising flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

Wet:

  • 30g low-fat spread
  • 1 large egg
  • 130ml fat-free natural yogurt

Additional (depending on flavor):

Herby Cheese:

  • 30g grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tsp dried mixed herbs
  • ½ tsp smoked garlic granules or onion powder (optional)

Lime & Ginger:

  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger (optional)
  • 2 tbsp sweetener granules (optional)

Finishing Touches:

  • Low-calorie cooking spray
  • 2 tsp skimmed milk

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (fan 170°C/gas 5).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients (flours, baking powder, and salt). Using your fingertips, rub the spread into the dry mix until it resembles breadcrumbs.
  3. If making flavored scones, add the chosen additional ingredients (Parmesan cheese, paprika, herbs, etc.) to the dry mix at this point.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and yogurt.
  5. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, using a knife to gently fold it in until a soft dough forms.
  6. Add a splash of water if the dough feels too dry.
  7. Lightly flour a clean surface and gently roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness.
  8. Try to handle the dough as little as possible to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
  9. Use a 6cm round cookie cutter to cut out 8 scones from the dough. Gently gather any scraps and re-roll to cut out a few more scones. Let the scones rest on a baking sheet for 5 minutes.
  10. Preheat a baking sheet with a light spray of low-calorie cooking spray. Transfer the scones to the baking sheet and brush them with the skimmed milk.
  11. Bake the scones for 12 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
  12. Let the scones cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them plain, sliced in half and filled with yogurt and fresh fruit, or spread with a thin layer of low-fat cream cheese.

In An Air Fryer:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Rest: Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rest for 5 minutes.
  3. Prepare air fryer basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  4. Bake: Transfer the scones to the air fryer basket and brush the tops with the skimmed milk. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
  5. Cool and serve: Let the scones cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them plain, with jam and cream, or topped with your favorite toppings.
  6. Enjoy your homemade air fryer scones!

Flavor Variations:

This recipe offers three flavor options, but feel free to experiment with other additions! Here are some ideas:

  • Fruity: Add chopped dried fruits like cranberries or raisins to the dough.
  • Chocolate Chip: Fold in a handful of dark chocolate chips.
  • Spiced: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor.

Tips:

  1. For a richer flavor, use a drizzle of honey or maple syrup instead of sweetener granules in the lime & ginger variation.
  2. Leftover scones can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or frozen for longer storage.