Chocolate

Chocolate Scones

Name: Chocolate Scones
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 48 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon fine salt; 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces; 3/4 cup heavy cream, cold; 1 large egg, cold; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 cup dark chocolate chips

By Romy Vanover · June 19, 2026 · Chocolate

Prep20 min

Cook18 min

Total48 min

Serves8

Chocolate Scones — Freshly baked chocolate scones

There's something special about biting into a warm, freshly baked scone, especially when it's infused with the deep flavor of dark chocolate. As a home cook and founder of Secretsauce Recipes, I've always been passionate about creating bakery-quality treats in the comfort of my own kitchen. Today, I'm excited to share with you my recipe for chocolate scones that are sure to become a favorite in your household.

I remember the first time I made scones from scratch - it was a revelation. The process was simpler than I expected, and the result was a batch of tender, flaky pastries that were perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Over time, I've experimented with various flavors, but chocolate remains one of my favorites. There's something about the way the cocoa powder and chocolate chips meld together that creates a truly decadent treat.

What makes this recipe special is the combination of high-quality ingredients and a few simple techniques that ensure your scones turn out light and fluffy every time. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to create a delicious and impressive dessert. So, let's get started and dive into the world of chocolate scones!

In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder to create a rich, chocolatey flavor. We'll also be adding in some cold butter and heavy cream to give our scones a tender, flaky texture. And of course, no chocolate scone would be complete without a generous helping of dark chocolate chips.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it's incredibly versatile. You can enjoy your scones on their own, or pair them with a variety of toppings such as clotted cream, jam, or even a scoop of ice cream. They're perfect for a special occasion or just a cozy night in with the family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chocolate scones are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment.
The recipe is perfect for beginners, as it requires no special skills or techniques beyond basic mixing and baking.
The scones are highly versatile, and can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of toppings such as clotted cream, jam, or ice cream.
The recipe makes a generous batch of scones, perfect for sharing with friends and family or for a special occasion.
The scones are perfect for a cozy night in, and can be made in under an hour from start to finish.
The recipe is budget-friendly, using common ingredients that are likely already stocked in your pantry.
The scones are perfect for a special treat, and can be made in advance and frozen for later use.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great scones is to use a combination of cold ingredients and a gentle mixing technique. By keeping your butter and cream cold, you'll be able to create a flaky, tender texture that's perfect for scones. Additionally, using a mixture of granulated sugar and unsweetened cocoa powder will give your scones a deep, rich flavor that's sure to impress.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of dark chocolate chips. These add a burst of flavor and texture to the scones, and help to balance out the richness of the cocoa powder. By using high-quality chocolate, you'll be able to create a truly decadent treat that's perfect for any chocolate lover.

Finally, it's worth noting that scones are best served fresh, but they can also be frozen for later use. This makes them a great option for meal prep or for special occasions when you want to impress your guests. Simply thaw and reheat as needed, and you'll have a delicious batch of chocolate scones at your fingertips.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making great scones, the quality of your ingredients is crucial. Look for high-quality cocoa powder, dark chocolate chips, and cold butter to ensure the best flavor and texture. You'll also need some basic pantry staples such as flour, sugar, and baking powder.

In addition to these ingredients, you'll need some heavy cream and an egg to help bind the dough together. Make sure to use cold cream and a cold egg to help create a flaky texture. Finally, a pinch of fine salt will help to balance out the flavors and bring out the richness of the chocolate.

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flourHigh-quality all-purpose flour is essential for creating a tender, flaky texture in your scones. Look for a brand that is unbleached and unbromated for the best flavor.
1 cup granulated sugarGranulated sugar adds a touch of sweetness to the scones without overpowering the chocolate flavor. You can also use brown sugar for a slightly different flavor profile.
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powderUnsweetened cocoa powder is the key to creating a deep, rich chocolate flavor in your scones. Look for a high-quality brand that is made from real cocoa beans.
1 teaspoon baking powderBaking powder helps the scones to rise and gives them a light, airy texture. Make sure to use a fresh batch of baking powder for the best results.
1/2 teaspoon fine saltA pinch of fine salt helps to balance out the flavors in the scones and brings out the richness of the chocolate. Use a high-quality salt such as fleur de sel or kosher salt for the best flavor.
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small piecesCold butter is essential for creating a flaky texture in your scones. Make sure to keep the butter cold until you're ready to use it, and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients.
3/4 cup heavy cream, coldCold heavy cream helps to create a tender, flaky texture in the scones. Make sure to keep the cream cold until you're ready to use it, and use a gentle mixing technique to avoid over-developing the dough.
1 large egg, coldA cold egg helps to bind the dough together and creates a tender, flaky texture in the scones. Make sure to keep the egg cold until you're ready to use it, and use a gentle mixing technique to avoid over-developing the dough.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extractPure vanilla extract adds a touch of sweetness and flavor to the scones. Use a high-quality brand that is made from real vanilla beans for the best flavor.
1 cup dark chocolate chipsDark chocolate chips add a burst of flavor and texture to the scones. Look for a high-quality brand that is made from real cocoa beans and has a high cocoa content for the best flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large mixing bowlPastry blender or your fingersWhiskRubber spatulaBaking sheet lined with parchment paperInstant-read thermometer

How to Make Chocolate Scones

1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
2
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Make sure to whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined and there are no lumps.
3
Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Make sure to keep the butter cold and to avoid over-developing the dough.
4
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Make sure to whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined and there are no lumps.
5
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir the mixture together until it forms a shaggy dough. Make sure to avoid over-mixing the dough, as this can lead to tough scones.
6
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Make sure to avoid over-working the dough, as this can lead to tough scones.
7
Pat the dough into a circle that is about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick. Make sure to handle the dough gently and avoid over-working it.
8
Use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out the scones. You should be able to get about 8-10 scones depending on the size of your cutter.
9
Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each scone. Make sure to handle the scones gently and avoid over-working the dough.
10
Brush the tops of the scones with a little extra heavy cream and sprinkle with granulated sugar. This will help to create a golden brown crust on the scones.
11
Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch. Make sure to check the scones after 15 minutes and rotate the baking sheet to ensure even baking.
12
Remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before serving. Make sure to handle the scones gently and avoid over-handling them, as this can lead to breakage.
13
Once the scones have cooled, melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the scones and serve immediately.

Expert Tips

Make sure to use cold ingredients, including cold butter and cream, to help create a flaky texture in your scones.
Avoid over-mixing the dough, as this can lead to tough scones.
Use a gentle mixing technique when combining the wet and dry ingredients to avoid developing the gluten in the flour.
Don't over-work the dough when kneading it, as this can lead to tough scones.
Use a high-quality cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips for the best flavor.
If you want a more intense chocolate flavor, you can add more cocoa powder or use a higher percentage of dark chocolate chips.
You can also add in other mix-ins, such as nuts or dried fruit, to create a unique flavor combination.
Make sure to handle the scones gently when placing them on the baking sheet and when removing them from the oven, as they can be fragile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-mixing the dough, which can lead to tough scones.
Using warm or room temperature ingredients, which can prevent the scones from developing a flaky texture.
Not using enough cold butter, which can result in scones that are dense and heavy.
Over-baking the scones, which can cause them to dry out and become crumbly.
Not handling the scones gently, which can cause them to break or become misshapen.
Not using high-quality ingredients, such as real cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips, which can result in a subpar flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Add in some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture and flavor.
Use a different type of chocolate chip, such as milk chocolate or white chocolate, for a unique flavor combination.
Add in some dried fruit, such as cranberries or cherries, for a sweet and fruity flavor.
Use a different type of flour, such as whole wheat or almond flour, for a unique texture and flavor.
Add in some spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, for a warm and aromatic flavor.
Use a different type of milk, such as almond milk or soy milk, for a non-dairy version of the scones.
Add in some espresso powder or instant coffee for a mocha flavor.

What to Serve With Chocolate Scones

These chocolate scones are perfect for serving as a breakfast or brunch item, and can be paired with a variety of toppings such as clotted cream, jam, or honey. They're also delicious on their own, and can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert. Consider serving them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy and indulgent treat.

Some other ideas for serving the scones include pairing them with a fruit salad or a green salad for a light and refreshing breakfast or lunch. You could also use them as a base for a dessert, such as a sundae or a trifle, by topping them with whipped cream, ice cream, and chocolate sauce.

Clotted cream and jamWhipped cream and chocolate sauceFresh fruit saladGreen saladCoffee or teaIce cream

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

These chocolate scones are best served fresh, but they can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, you can place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the oven or microwave when you're ready to serve.

To freeze the scones, make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can also place them in a freezer-safe bag or container to keep them fresh. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw the scones at room temperature or reheat them in the oven or microwave.

To reheat the scones, you can place them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until they're warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave in 10-15 second increments, stirring between each interval until they're warmed through. Make sure to handle the scones gently when reheating them, as they can be fragile.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to store the scones?

The scones are best served fresh, but they can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, you can place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Can I make the scones ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the scones ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months and thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the oven or microwave when you're ready to serve.

What is the best way to reheat the scones?

You can reheat the scones in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until they're warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave in 10-15 second increments, stirring between each interval until they're warmed through.

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use a different type of flour, such as whole wheat or almond flour, but keep in mind that it may affect the texture and flavor of the scones.

Can I add in other mix-ins?

Yes, you can add in other mix-ins, such as nuts or dried fruit, to create a unique flavor combination. Just be sure to adjust the amount of sugar and spices accordingly.

What is the best way to serve the scones?

The scones are perfect for serving as a breakfast or brunch item, and can be paired with a variety of toppings such as clotted cream, jam, or honey. They're also delicious on their own, and can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert.

Can I make the scones in a different shape?

Yes, you can make the scones in a different shape, such as a square or a triangle, but keep in mind that it may affect the baking time and texture of the scones.

What is the best way to handle the scones?

Make sure to handle the scones gently when placing them on the baking sheet and when removing them from the oven, as they can be fragile.

The Full Recipe

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