Are you ready to bake something delicious? This Chocolate Chip Scone Bread is both tasty and simple to make! With just a few key ingredients, you’ll create a sweet treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. Follow my step-by-step guide to mix, bake, and enjoy this delightful loaf. Let’s dive into the easy recipe that will have everyone asking for more!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
The dry ingredients form the base of your scone bread. All-purpose flour gives it structure. Granulated sugar adds sweetness. Baking powder helps it rise. Salt enhances flavor.
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the wet ingredients, use cold unsalted butter for a flaky texture. Heavy cream adds richness, while the egg binds everything. Vanilla extract gives a lovely flavor that pairs well with the chocolate.
Add-ins and Toppings
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (for topping)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for topping
Chocolate chips are the stars of this recipe. Semi-sweet chips bring sweetness, while mini chips on top add a fun crunch. You can sprinkle coarse sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Pan
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease or line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
Start by making sure your oven is hot enough. This helps the scone bread rise well. Greasing the pan helps prevent sticking. Lining it with parchment paper makes removal easy.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
- Whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour.
- Add 1/2 cup of granulated sugar.
- Mix in 1 tablespoon of baking powder.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
In a large bowl, whisk the dry ingredients. This step ensures an even mix. The baking powder is key for fluffiness. Make sure there are no clumps.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Work in 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter, cubed.
- Mix 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the dry mix.
- Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Now, add the cold butter to the flour mix. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter. You want it to look like coarse crumbs. Next, in a separate bowl, whisk the cream, egg, and vanilla. Slowly add this to the dry mix, stirring gently. Don’t overmix! Finally, fold in the chocolate chips carefully.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the best texture in your chocolate chip scone bread, cold butter is key. When you use cold butter, it creates little pockets of air. This helps the bread rise and stay flaky. Make sure to cut the butter into small cubes before mixing it into the flour.
Do not overmix the batter once you add the wet ingredients. Overmixing can make the bread tough. Stir just until you no longer see dry flour. Gentle folding keeps the texture light and airy.
Baking and Cooling Guidelines
For perfect baking, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the scone bread for 40 to 45 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready.
After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, move it to a wire rack. This prevents sogginess and helps it cool evenly.
Presentation Suggestions
When you slice your scone bread, cut it thick for a nice presentation. A serrated knife works best for clean cuts. Serve the slices on a pretty platter.
For an extra touch, dust the top with powdered sugar. You can add fresh berries on the side for color. This scone bread pairs well with coffee or tea. Enjoy it as a delightful treat!
Variations
Flavor Additions
You can switch up the chocolate chips in this recipe for fun flavors. Try using white chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Dried fruits like cranberries or blueberries can add a nice tartness. You could even use peanut butter chips for a nutty flavor. Each swap can change the taste and make it your own.
Dietary Modifications
If you need gluten-free options, use almond flour or a gluten-free blend. These flours work well and keep the scone bread soft. For dairy-free needs, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk. This keeps the bread moist without using dairy. Always check that your chocolate chips are dairy-free too.
Topping Alternatives
You can top your scone bread with more than just chocolate chips. Try adding chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy bite. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warm spices. If you want extra sweetness, coarse sugar or a drizzle of honey works well. Each topping gives a unique flavor to your scone bread.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your chocolate chip scone bread fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. This helps maintain moisture and flavor. Place the scone bread in the container once it cools completely. You can enjoy it for up to three days at room temperature. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing.
Freezing Instructions
For longer shelf life, freezing is a great choice. Wrap the cooled scone bread tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to label it with the date. This way, you can enjoy scone bread for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips
To enjoy your scone bread warm again, use a few easy methods. If it’s frozen, let it thaw first in the fridge. Then, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scone bread on a baking sheet. Heat it for about 10-15 minutes. This helps restore the soft texture. You can also microwave it for 15-20 seconds for a quick snack. Just be careful not to overheat, as it may dry out.
FAQs
Can I make chocolate chip scone bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can make chocolate chip scone bread ahead of time. To do this, bake the bread and let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. This helps keep it fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. Wrap it well and place it in a freezer bag. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. You can warm it in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you need a substitute for heavy cream, there are several options. You can use whole milk mixed with butter. Combine 1/4 cup of butter with 3/4 cup of milk to make 1 cup of cream. For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk or almond milk. Silken tofu blended with a bit of water is another good choice. This will help you keep the same texture. These alternatives work well in the recipe and help fit different diets.
How do I know when the scone bread is fully baked?
To check if the scone bread is fully baked, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it is done. Look for a golden-brown top and a firm texture. The edges may pull away from the pan slightly. This means it is ready to cool. If the toothpick shows wet batter, bake for a few more minutes. Keep checking until it’s done. These signs help ensure that your scone bread is perfectly baked every time.
This post covered how to make a delicious chocolate chip scone bread. We looked at the right dry and wet ingredients, plus fun add-ins and toppings. I shared step-by-step instructions to guide you from mixing to baking. Remember, using cold butter helps create the perfect texture. You can get creative with flavors and ideas to fit your diet. With these tips, your scone bread will impress. Happy baking!
