This recipe uses a standard scone base with a hint of dried lavender. The addition of dried apricot adds sweetness and texture to the scones. The apricot also helps to counter balance with lavender and keep it from becoming overly floral. The scones are topped with a standard glaze and pinch more of dried lavender. That touch of lavender on top is not only for looks; the scent of lavender will welcome your guests long before they even take their first bites.
It is important to note that only a few lavender buds should be used in decoration, however. This is because it can easily alter the overall flavor of the scones. Lavender can be a strong flavor, and we don’t want it to become overpowering; too much can tend to taste soapy. Don’t let this alarm you; just lean toward the side of caution and add more as you see fit. It is much easier to add more lavender as a garnish later than it is to take it off.
Serving Your Apricot Lavender Scones
While these scones can easily be served at any time of day, we definitely think they make a great evening dessert scone. Lavender has been used for centuries as an aid for relaxation and stress relief. What could be more relaxing than ending the day with a steaming cup of tea and a delicious scone?
We suggest pairing it with our Vista Blend, a delicious honeybush tea with apricot & lavender. The benefit of choosing an herbal tea means that if you are enjoying this combination in the evening, you won’t be kept up all night because of it. If you are looking for something with a little caffeine, our Delightful Morning, which is a lavender Earl Grey tea, is a great option. Starting the day both relaxed and caffeinated is not a bad combination, either.
While this scone is perfect on its own, you could also choose to serve with some apricot preserves and clotted cream. Even a little lemon curd would be great as the citrus notes would blend wonderfully with the apricot and lavender. Afraid of having too much floral? Try serving it with another complimentary scone such as our dark chocolate cranberry scones.
If you are planning to use this apricot lavender scone recipe as part of a larger tea party, try serving them with our bacon-wrapped apricot grilled chicken bites over a bed of greens. With such a stunning main dish, try some simple tea sandwiches such as cucumber, cream cheese, smoked salmon, or egg salad. Simple soups such as a root veggie soup are also a great option.
Apricot Lavender Scone Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into pats
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup cold milk, plus more for brushing
- 2 teaspoons lavender buds, plus more for garnish
- 1/4 dried, chopped apricots
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Add in the butter and, using a fork, mix until a crumbly mixture is formed.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1/2 cup of milk. Add the egg mixture to the flour mixture until well blended.
Fold in lavender buds and apricots.
Transfer the dough to a piece of parchment or lightly greased work surface (a floured surface will only dry out the dough more). Flatten the dough to about 1/2 or 3/4 of an inch thick. Using a butter knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into triangles.
Place the scones on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and brush with a small amount of milk.
Place in the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the tops are a medium golden brown.
While the scones cool, whisk together the 1/4 cup of milk, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar in a small bowl until incorporated. Drizzle over cooled scones as desired and garnish with lavender as desired.
