Lemon Cream Scones

### Step-by-Step Instructions

#### 1. Preheat the Oven
– Start by preheating your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the scones from sticking.

#### 2. Mix Dry Ingredients
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the **flour**, **sugar**, **baking powder**, and **salt**. Whisk to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

#### 3. Add Lemon Zest
– Stir in the freshly grated **lemon zest**, which will infuse the dough with its refreshing citrus aroma and flavor.

#### 4. Prepare Wet Ingredients
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the **heavy cream**, **egg**, **vanilla extract**, and **lemon juice** (if using). You should have a smooth, creamy mixture.

#### 5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
– Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this could result in dense scones. The dough will be slightly sticky but should hold together.

#### 6. Shape the Scones
– Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together. Pat the dough into a **1-inch thick circle**. Using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, cut the dough into **8 wedges** (like you would a pizza).
– If you prefer smaller scones, you can divide the dough into more wedges.

#### 7. Bake the Scones
– Place the scone wedges on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Brush the tops of the scones with a little **heavy cream** to help them brown and become golden and shiny.
– Sprinkle a bit of **turbinado sugar** on top for extra crunch and sweetness, if desired.

#### 8. Bake and Enjoy
– Bake the scones in the preheated oven for about **15-18 minutes**, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
– Allow the scones to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

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### Tips for Success

1. **Use Cold Cream**: For the best texture, ensure that your **heavy cream** is cold. This will help the scones maintain their light, flaky texture.
2. **Don’t Overmix**: Scone dough should be handled gently. Overmixing can lead to tough scones, so mix just until the dough comes together.
3. **Add a Glaze**: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a simple glaze made of **powdered sugar** and **lemon juice** over the scones after they’ve cooled.
4. **Use Fresh Lemons**: Fresh lemon zest will give your scones the brightest flavor. Avoid using bottled lemon juice as it lacks the zest’s vibrant fragrance.

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### Why These Scones Are So Special

**Lemon Cream Scones** are the perfect combination of **fresh citrus** and **rich cream**—two flavors that pair beautifully together in a simple, yet indulgent treat. The scones are wonderfully flaky, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes each bite a delight. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch gathering or simply enjoying them with your morning coffee, they are sure to brighten anyone’s day with their burst of flavor. Plus, their easy preparation means you can enjoy fresh, homemade scones without spending hours in the kitchen!

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### Conclusion

**Lemon Cream Scones** are a deliciously simple, yet elegant treat that everyone will love. They are the perfect way to enjoy a taste of homemade comfort with a refreshing lemon twist. Whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or enjoying them solo, these scones are sure to become a staple in your baking collection. Give them a try the next time you’re in the mood for something warm, flavorful, and irresistibly delicious!