Name: Chocolate Chip Peppermint Scones for a Festive Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.); 0.5 cups granulated sugar (Reduce by half for a less sweet scone.); 1 tbsp baking powder (Ensure it's fresh for the best results.); 0.5 tsp salt (Use sea salt for a subtler taste.); 0.5 cups cold butter (Cut into cubes for best mixing results.); 0.75 cups milk (Any milk type works; substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.); 2 large egg yolks (Can substitute with flax eggs for vegan options.); 0.5 cups mini chocolate chips (Substitute dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.); 0.5 cups candy cane crunch (Optional, can be replaced with crushed peppermint candies.); 1 cup powdered sugar (Can substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.); 2 tbsp milk for glaze (Use water as an alternative to adjust consistency.)

The aroma wafting from my oven is pure magic, a fragrant promise of something extraordinary. These Chocolate Chip Peppermint Scones meld the comforting taste of chocolate with the festive zing of peppermint, making them the perfect holiday delight. Each bite boasts a fluffy texture that you’ll crave, especially with the delightful crunch of candy canes sprinkled throughout. This recipe is not only quick to whip up, but it makes for a stunning centerpiece at your holiday brunch or a cozy afternoon snack with friends. Plus, they can easily be customized with your favorite mix-ins to make them uniquely yours! So, are you ready to fill your kitchen with holiday cheer? Let’s dive into these seasonal scones!

Why are these scones a must-try?

Irresistibly Festive: The combination of peppermint and chocolate creates a delightful holiday flavor profile that feels just right for any celebration.
Easy Preparation: Ideal for bakers of all levels, these scones come together quickly without any fuss. Perfect for those busy holiday mornings!
Customizable Options: Add your favorite flavor twist, like dried cranberries or even more candy cane crunch, to personalize each batch.
Perfectly Fluffy Texture: Each scone is tender and fluffy, offering a delightful contrast with crunchy candy cane pieces.
Crowd Pleaser: Serve these at your next holiday gathering, and watch them disappear—they’re sure to be a favorite!
Elevate your festive baking with these Chocolate Chip Peppermint Scones, and if you’re looking for more inspiration, don’t miss the deliciousness of Chocolate Chip Sourdough.

Chocolate Chip Peppermint Scones Ingredients

For the Scones

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the scones; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; reduce by half for a less sweet scone.
Baking Powder – Leavening agent for fluffiness; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
Salt – Enhances flavors; use sea salt for a subtler taste.
Butter – Creates a tender, flaky texture; make sure it’s cold and cut into cubes for best mixing results.
Milk – Adds moisture to the dough; any milk type works, substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
Egg Yolks – Helps bind the dough and enriches flavor; can substitute with flax eggs for vegan options.
Mini Chocolate Chips – Adds sweetness and richness; substitute dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.
Candy Cane Crunch – Optional for added peppermint flavor; can be replaced with crushed peppermint candies.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – For glazing; can substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Optional Milk for Glaze – Adjusts consistency of the glaze; use water as an alternative.

These Chocolate Chip Peppermint Scones will make a delightful addition to your holiday table—deliciously soft and festive!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Chip Peppermint Scones

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set it aside. This first step ensures that your Chocolate Chip Peppermint Scones will bake evenly and get that delightful golden brown color.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure the mixture is fully blended, which should take around 1-2 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air and ensuring the scones rise beautifully, leading to a wonderfully fluffy texture.

Step 3: Incorporate Butter
Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingers. Continue until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, about the size of peas, which should take around 3-5 minutes. This will create a tender and flaky texture in your scones, ensuring a delightful bite.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips
Gently stir in the mini chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the crumb mixture. This adds sweetness and a rich chocolate flavor to your Chocolate Chip Peppermint Scones. Take care not to overwork the dough at this stage.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the milk and egg yolks until well combined. Gradually pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and fold gently with a spatula until a dough starts to form. This step helps bind the ingredients and infuse moisture.

Step 6: Mix in Peppermint
Carefully fold in the crushed candy cane pieces or your preferred peppermint flavoring at this stage. These pieces will give your scones that irresistible festive zing, making each bite a holiday delight. Be gentle to maintain the integrity of the dough.

Step 7: Shape the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough gently just until it comes together, then shape it into an 8-inch circle. Using a sharp knife, cut the circle into 8 wedges or rounds, ensuring they are even for uniform baking. This shaping is important for achieving that classic scone look.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking
Brush the tops of the scones with an egg white mixed with water to promote a beautiful golden crust during baking. Place your shaped scones on the prepared baking sheet and chill them in the refrigerator for 15 minutes, which helps them maintain their shape in the oven.

Step 9: Bake the Scones
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake the scones for 18-22 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Enjoy the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Step 10: Cool and Glaze
Once baked, allow the scones to cool on a wire rack. In the meantime, prepare your glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a little milk until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the scones, and sprinkle additional crushed candy canes on top for an extra touch of festive cheer.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Chip Peppermint Scones are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the dough and shape it up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to the point of cutting the scones and place them on a baking sheet; then cover and refrigerate. This chilling step helps maintain their shape and texture when baking. When you’re ready to serve, bake them straight from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to baking time if needed. You can also freeze the shaped scones for up to 3 months; just ensure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. Enjoy delicious, freshly baked scones with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Chip Peppermint Scones

Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough before baking helps maintain the scones’ shape and improves the texture. Avoid skipping this step for best results.
Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overwork the dough while combining the ingredients. This can lead to tough scones instead of the tender, fluffy texture you want in your Chocolate Chip Peppermint Scones.
Use Cold Butter: Ensure your butter is cold and cut into small cubes. This will help create that flaky texture that makes scones so delightful.
Sharp Cutter: Use a sharp biscuit cutter to ensure clean edges when cutting out your scones. This helps them rise evenly and gives a professional look.
Customize Flavor: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite mix-ins like dried cranberries or nuts for added texture and flavor variations in your scones.

What to Serve with Chocolate Chip Peppermint Scones

Nothing completes the cozy indulgence of holiday scones like a delightful assortment of accompaniments that elevate your festive experience.

Peppermint Hot Cocoa: A rich and creamy drink that perfectly complements the scones’ minty flavor, creating a warm hug in a cup.
Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit adds a refreshing brightness and balances the sweetness of the scones, making for a vibrant, healthy contrast.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of vanilla or peppermint whipped cream enhances every bite, bringing a luxurious texture to the experience.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm drink, with its cinnamon festival, brings out the festive spirit and warms your soul on chilly days.
Savory Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy cheeses with crackers offers a delightful contrast to the sweetness, making for a well-rounded brunch spread.
Candied Ginger Pieces: They provide a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the chocolate and peppermint, adding an exciting twist to your flavors.
Gingerbread Cookies: Double down on the holiday spirit with these spiced delights that sing in harmony with the flavors of your scones.
Warm Milk Tea: The calming notes of a milky tea can bring balance with its subtle flavors, allowing the scones to shine.
Holiday Fruit Cake: A slice of festive fruit cake rounds off the meal, echoing similar flavors and inviting nostalgia with every bite.
Mulled Wine: For the adults, this spiced drink creates a warm, cozy atmosphere and pairs surprisingly well with the scones’ sweetness.

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Chip Peppermint Scones

Room Temperature: Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh, soft, and ready to enjoy anytime!

Fridge: If you’d like to extend their shelf life, store them in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Reheat briefly in the microwave for that fresh-baked taste.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze unbaked scones for up to 3 months. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: Reheat baked scones in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until warm. Adding a drizzle of glaze just before serving can enhance the flavors of your Chocolate Chip Peppermint Scones!

Chocolate Chip Peppermint Scones Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by adapting this recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences!

Dairy-Free: Swap cow’s milk with almond or oat milk for a delightful dairy-free scone that keeps the flavors vibrant.
Vegan: Use flax eggs instead of egg yolks and coconut oil in place of butter for a yummy vegan version that everyone can enjoy.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those avoiding gluten. Just be sure to check the blend for proper hydration.
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough for an even more intense peppermint flavor that will leave your taste buds singing.
Texture Twist: Mix in some chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy bite that contrasts the soft, fluffy scone texture.
Sweet Substitutions: Replace mini chocolate chips with dark chocolate chunks for a rich, decadent experience, or try dried cranberries for a tart twist.
Candy Cane Crush: Instead of candy canes, experiment with crushed peppermint bark for a unique flavor packed with chocolatey goodness.
Additional Spices: Incorporate warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough to add depth and warmth, making your scones even more festive.

Feel inspired? Explore more delightful variations like the fun of baking Chocolate Chip Sourdough to add even more joyful treats to your holiday spread!

Chocolate Chip Peppermint Scones Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ingredients for my scones?
Absolutely! For the best results, ensure your butter is cold and cut into small cubes, as this creates that flaky texture we love. When selecting flour, all-purpose works beautifully, but if you’re gluten-sensitive, opt for a gluten-free blend. Always check your baking powder for freshness; an expired powder can lead to flat scones.

What are the best storage methods for leftover scones?
Very! To store scones, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, keeping them soft and fresh. If you want them to last longer, they can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Just remember to reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste!

Can I freeze Chocolate Chip Peppermint Scones? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze scones, shape the unbaked dough as usual and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag, and they can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfect results!

What should I do if my scones come out too dry?
If your scones are dry, they may have overmixed or too much flour was added. In your next batch, be gentle when blending the dough, and try measuring your flour by spooning it into the cup rather than scooping directly from the bag. You can also add a splash more milk during mixing to achieve a better moisture balance!

Are there any dietary considerations for these scones?
Very! For those with allergies, you can substitute the milk with almond milk or another dairy-free alternative, and for vegan options, just replace the egg yolks with flax eggs. If you’re sharing with pets, be cautious with chocolate, as it can be toxic to them. Enjoy these delightful scones with 100% peace of mind!