These Peach Scones are a delightful treat with a buttery, tender crumb and juicy peach pockets in every bite. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, they bring the essence of summer into your kitchen. Whether you use fresh, canned, or frozen peaches, the result is always a bakery-worthy scone that pairs beautifully with tea or coffee. Slightly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, these scones are easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup heavy cream (plus extra for brushing)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup diced peaches (fresh, canned, or frozen – if frozen, thaw and drain first)
• Optional: coarse sugar for topping

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream, egg, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
6. Fold in the diced peaches, being careful not to overmix.
7. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently shape it into an 8-inch round disc about 1 inch thick.
8. Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the disc into 8 wedges.
9. Transfer the wedges to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
10. Brush the tops with a little extra cream and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired.
11. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
12. Let the scones cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts 

• Calories: 290
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 35g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 4g
• Calcium: 80mg
• Iron: 1.5mg

Seasonal and Ingredient Flexibility

While fresh peaches are ideal when in season, this recipe is highly adaptable to what’s available. Canned or frozen peaches are great alternatives, ensuring this treat can be made year-round. Just be sure to drain canned peaches well and thaw and pat dry frozen peaches to avoid soggy dough. You can also switch up the fruit—nectarines, apricots, or even berries like blueberries and raspberries make excellent substitutions. The dough itself is a flexible base that welcomes a variety of mix-ins, including nuts, dried fruits, or a touch of spice like cinnamon or cardamom for extra warmth.

Tips for Perfect Texture

Achieving the ideal scone texture means mastering a few key techniques. Keeping the butter cold is crucial—this helps create the flaky, tender layers that define a great scone. It’s also important not to overmix the dough; doing so can develop too much gluten and lead to dense, tough scones. Gently folding the dough and handling it as little as possible helps preserve air pockets for a light crumb. A quick chill before baking can help the scones hold their shape and boost their rise. Finally, brushing the tops with cream and sprinkling with coarse sugar gives a glossy, crisp finish.

Health Considerations and Modifications

While peach scones are a sweet, indulgent treat, there are several ways to make them slightly healthier without compromising flavor. Swapping half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour adds fiber and a nuttier taste. Reducing the sugar or using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup can also lighten the sugar load. Replacing heavy cream with Greek yogurt or buttermilk offers a lower-fat alternative that maintains moisture. Those with dietary restrictions can experiment with gluten-free flour blends or dairy-free butter and cream to accommodate various needs.

Flavor Pairings and Additions

The subtle sweetness of peaches pairs wonderfully with a wide range of flavors. A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ground ginger adds depth and warmth. Vanilla or almond extract enhances the fruity base with aromatic notes. For added texture, chopped pecans or almonds offer a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the scone. A drizzle of honey glaze or a light vanilla icing can elevate the scones for a more decadent finish. Lemon zest is another great addition that brightens the overall flavor and balances the richness of the butter and cream.

Serving Suggestions

Peach scones are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature, and they shine when served with a few thoughtful accompaniments. A pat of softened butter, clotted cream, or a dollop of whipped ricotta enhances their buttery flavor. If you prefer them slightly sweeter, serve with fruit preserves or a drizzle of honey. For brunch settings, pair them with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit salad, or savory dishes like quiche. When served for tea time, they complement black teas such as Earl Grey or breakfast blends, as well as lighter floral teas like chamomile or jasmine.

Best Beverage Pairings

The rich, buttery profile of peach scones makes them perfect alongside hot or cold beverages. Coffee lovers will enjoy how the natural sweetness of peaches complements the bitter depth of brewed coffee or espresso. Tea drinkers can pair them with black teas for a bold match or opt for green teas for a more delicate balance. For something refreshing, iced herbal teas or fruit-infused waters also make a great match. During special occasions, consider serving them with mimosas or peach bellinis for a festive brunch spread.

Storage and Freezing Advice

Peach scones can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to five days and reheat briefly in the oven or toaster oven to restore crispness. These scones also freeze well—either raw or baked. To freeze unbaked scones, arrange them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Baked scones should be cooled completely, wrapped tightly, and stored for up to three months in the freezer.

Making Scones in Advance

Peach scones are excellent for preparing ahead of time. You can mix the dry ingredients and cube the butter a day in advance, storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble. You can also shape and cut the scones ahead of time, then refrigerate them overnight or freeze them for convenience. This make-ahead approach is great for busy mornings, brunch events, or any time you want freshly baked goods without the hassle of same-day prep. Preparing in stages makes the recipe feel more manageable and ensures a fresh-baked experience on demand.

Presentation Tips for Entertaining

Peach scones can be a showstopping addition to any brunch table or dessert buffet when presented with care. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board or a vintage serving platter for a charming, farmhouse-style look. Garnish with a few fresh peach slices, edible flowers, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a professional finish. If serving with spreads or creams, place them in small bowls nearby to encourage dipping and interaction. Warm scones wrapped in a linen napkin inside a basket also add a cozy, inviting touch that enhances the overall dining experience.

Conclusion

Peach scones embody the perfect balance of buttery richness and fruity brightness, making them a versatile and beloved baked good. From their flaky texture to their warm, sweet aroma, they offer comfort and indulgence in every bite. With endless options for customization, health-conscious adjustments, and clever storage techniques, these scones easily fit into everyday routines or special occasions.