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Lemon Poppy Seed Scones – Tender, Bright, and Bakery-Style

There’s something undeniably uplifting about lemon poppy seed scones. They’re soft yet crumbly, gently sweet, and filled with fresh citrus aroma that instantly brightens the day. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, these scones deliver a classic bakery experience right from your own kitchen. This recipe focuses on balance: zesty lemon for freshness, poppy seeds for subtle crunch, and a rich cream-based dough for a tender crumb. Finished with a smooth lemon glaze, these scones feel elegant without being complicated. Whether you’re serving guests or enjoying a quiet moment with a warm drink, these lemon poppy seed scones are a reliable, crowd-pleasing favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
bake time 18 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings: 8 scones
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the scones:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ tablespoons poppy seeds
  • Zest of 1 medium lemon
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter cold and cubed
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
For the lemon glaze:
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons milk or half & half
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Equipment

  • To prepare these lemon poppy seed scones, you’ll need:
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Pastry cutter or fork
  • Silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife or bench scraper
  • Cooling rack
  • Optional but helpful:
  • Microplane or fine grater (for lemon zest)
  • Small bowl for glaze

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Oven
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cornstarch, salt, and granulated sugar. Stir in poppy seeds and lemon zest until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
  1. Add the cold butter cubes to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or fork, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces remaining. This step is key to flaky scones.
Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
  1. In a separate bowl, mix heavy cream and lemon juice. Pour into the flour mixture and gently fold with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
  1. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Avoid kneading to keep the texture tender.
Step 6: Cut the Scones
  1. Using a sharp knife, cut the circle into 8 equal wedges. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing slightly apart.
Step 7: Bake
  1. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the scones are lightly golden on the edges and set in the center.
Step 8: Cool Slightly
  1. Remove from the oven and allow scones to cool on a rack for 10 minutes before glazing.
Step 9: Prepare the Glaze
  1. In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and lemon juice until smooth and pourable.
Step 10: Glaze the Scones
  1. Drizzle glaze generously over the warm scones. Let it set before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days
Refrigerate for up to 5 days
Freeze unglazed scones for up to 2 months
Reheat gently in the oven to restore texture
🥄 Variations
Customize these lemon poppy seed scones easily:
Extra Lemon Version: Add additional lemon zest
Softer Scones: Increase cream slightly
Crunchy Top Version: Sprinkle sugar on top before baking
Mini Scones: Cut smaller wedges and reduce bake time
❓ 10 FAQs
Why use cornstarch in scones?
It softens the flour and creates a tender crumb.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Cream gives richer texture, but milk works if needed.
How do I keep scones from spreading?
Use cold butter and avoid overmixing.
Are poppy seeds necessary?
They add texture but can be omitted if preferred.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate shaped scones and bake later.
Why shouldn’t I knead the dough?
Kneading makes scones tough instead of tender.
Do these scones freeze well?
Yes, especially before glazing.
What gives scones their rise?
Baking powder and baking soda work together.
Can kids enjoy these scones?
Yes, they’re lightly sweet and soft.
Should scones be served warm or cool?
Slightly warm is best for flavor and texture.
🏁 Conclusion
These Lemon Poppy Seed Scones are bright, tender, and beautifully balanced. With fresh citrus flavor, delicate crunch, and a smooth lemon glaze, they bring bakery-quality results to your home kitchen. Simple to make yet elegant to serve, this recipe is perfect for mornings, gatherings, or anytime you want something comforting with a fresh twist.