Banana Scones

These Banana Scones are a delightful and quick treat that everyone can enjoy. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, these vegan scones are made with just three ingredients and can be customized to your liking. Whether you’re in a hurry or looking for a comforting recipe for your next gathering, these scones stand out for their ease of preparation and delicious banana flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only three main ingredients, you can whip up these scones in less than 30 minutes.
• Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or dairy-free chocolate chips to make them uniquely yours.
• Healthy Option: These scones are oil-free and made with wholesome ingredients, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them at breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack – they fit right in!
• Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy delicious baked goods without any animal products.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Banana Scones, having the right kitchen tools is essential for ease and efficiency.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowl
• Fork or stand mixer
• Measuring cups
• Cookie cutter
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing Bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spills.
• Cookie Cutter: Using a cookie cutter ensures uniform shapes for even baking.
• Parchment Paper: This helps prevent sticking on the baking sheet, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

These Banana Scones are easy 3-ingredient vegan banana bread scones. They are easy to make in less than 30 minutes, oil-free, and easy to customize by adding nuts, maple glaze, or chocolate chips.

Ingredients:
– 3 1/2 cups Self-Rising Flour (+ 1/4 cup to work the dough (note 1))
– 1 1/3 cup Mashed Banana (a bit less than 3 large bananas (note 2))
– 2/3 cup Vanilla Plant-Based Yogurt (+ a bit more to brush on top of the scones (note 3))
– 1/2 cup Dairy-Free Dark Chocolate Chips (or chopped pecans, walnuts)
– 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
– 1/4 cup Unrefined Sugar

How to Make Banana Scones

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 390°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly oil it with cooking spray. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, add the mashed banana. Use a fork or the paddle attachment of a stand mixer to mash until smooth.

Step 3: Measure Ingredients

Pack the mashed bananas into a measuring cup until you have 1 cup + 1/3 cup of mashed bananas.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the mashed banana to the mixing bowl. Add the vanilla plant-based yogurt and self-rising flour. If you’re using optional ingredients like cinnamon and sugar, add them now.

Step 5: Mix the Dough

Start stirring with a spoon. Once mixed slightly, flour your hands and knead the dough until it forms—a rough texture is normal; it does not need to be smooth.

Step 6: Add Mix-Ins

If desired, fold in dairy-free dark chocolate chips or nuts at this stage.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Clean any sticky residue from your hands and lightly oil them with olive oil. Sprinkle about two tablespoons of flour on your work surface. Place the dough on it, sprinkle more flour on top if needed, then flatten it into about a 0.8-inch thickness (2cm).

Step 8: Cut Out Scones

Use a cookie cutter (about 5 cm) to cut out pieces of dough. Place them on the prepared baking sheet with space between each one since they will expand during baking.

Step 9: Reuse Dough Scraps

Gather leftover dough pieces together and repeat steps to cut more scones out of it.

Step 10: Brush with Yogurt

Using a pastry brush, apply yogurt on top of each scone before baking.

Step 11: Bake

Bake in the oven for about 15 to 17 minutes until they turn golden brown on top.

Step 12: Cool Down

Allow cooling on a rack before serving.

Enjoy your warm Banana Scones fresh from the oven!

How to Serve Banana Scones

These delightful banana scones can be served in various ways to elevate your breakfast or snack experience. Whether you prefer them warm from the oven or dressed up with toppings, there are plenty of serving suggestions to enjoy.

With Nut Butter

• Peanut Butter: Spread creamy peanut butter on warm scones for a protein-packed delight.
• Almond Butter: A tasty alternative that adds healthy fats and a rich flavor to your scones.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Bananas: Enhance the banana flavor by adding fresh banana slices on top.
• Berries: Serve with strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing twist and a burst of color.

Drizzled with Sweet Sauce

• Maple Syrup: Drizzle pure maple syrup over the scones for added sweetness and moisture.
• Fruit Puree: Use a berry puree for a fruity topping that pairs wonderfully with the banana flavor.

Accompanied by Dairy-Free Yogurt

• Vanilla Yogurt: Serve alongside a bowl of vanilla plant-based yogurt for dipping or spreading.
• Coconut Yogurt: Offers a tropical touch that complements the scone’s flavor perfectly.

How to Perfect Banana Scones

Perfecting your banana scones is all about mastering the technique and knowing what ingredients work best. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper, the better! Overripe bananas provide more natural sweetness and moisture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough scones instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Chill Ingredients: For an even fluffier texture, chill your yogurt before mixing it into the batter.
• Cut Evenly: Use a sharp cookie cutter or knife for clean edges when cutting out your scones; this helps them rise evenly.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking time; ovens vary, so check for golden tops around the 15-minute mark.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or cardamom for extra depth in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Scones

Pairing your banana scones with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the scones.
2. Green Smoothie: Blend spinach, banana, and almond milk for a nutritious drink that complements your breakfast.
3. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding provides healthy omega-3s and pairs well with the flavors of banana.
4. Granola Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and fruits for a satisfying crunch alongside your soft scones.
5. Savory Avocado Toast: A slice of avocado toast adds creaminess and savory notes that contrast nicely with sweet scones.
6. Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea offers soothing flavors that enhance the overall experience of enjoying banana scones.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Banana Scones can be simple, but it’s easy to overlook a few key points. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Incorrect banana measurement – Using too much or too little banana can affect the texture. Be sure to mash the bananas accurately for the right consistency.
• Not using self-rising flour – Regular flour won’t give the same rise. Always use self-rising flour as specified in the recipe for fluffy scones.
• Overmixing the dough – This can lead to tough scones. Mix just until combined; a rough texture is perfectly normal and desirable.
• Skipping the yogurt brush – This adds color and moisture to your scones’ tops. Don’t forget to brush each scone before baking for a beautiful finish!
• Ignoring cooling time – Scones taste best when slightly cooled. Allow them to sit on a rack after baking for improved flavor and texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Banana Scones in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Banana Scones

• Wrap each scone tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Scones

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake scones for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat one scone at a time on high for 15-20 seconds. Be cautious not to overdo it, as they can become dry.
• Stovetop – Place a scone in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 2-3 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make vegan Banana Scones?

You can easily make vegan Banana Scones by using plant-based yogurt and ensuring all other ingredients are dairy-free.

What is the best way to store Banana Scones?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them if you need longer storage.

Can I customize my Banana Scones?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even spices like nutmeg for additional flavor.

How do I know when my Banana Scones are done?

The tops should be golden brown and spring back slightly when pressed gently with your finger.

What can I serve with Banana Scones?

These delightful scones pair well with fruit preserves, dairy-free butter, or even drizzled with maple syrup.

Conclusion

These Banana Scones are not only quick and easy to make but also incredibly versatile! With just a few ingredients, you can create delicious treats perfect for breakfast or snacks. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips—your taste buds will thank you!