Peppermint White Chocolate Scones

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Imagine the comforting aroma of freshly baked scones, with a seasonal twist that turns an everyday treat into a festive indulgence. These Peppermint White Chocolate Scones are the perfect balance of rich, buttery pastry and bright peppermint crunch, all tied together with a smooth white chocolate drizzle. Each bite melts in your mouth, delivering holiday cheer and bakery-level goodness straight from your oven.

Perfect for winter mornings, brunch spreads, or as an eye-catching addition to your dessert table, these scones bring a unique blend of warmth and cool peppermint flair. The crushed candy cane topping gives a satisfying crunch, while the soft, flaky interior pairs beautifully with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee. They’re indulgent without being too sweet, and the festive colors make them an instant holiday favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint White Chocolate Scones Recipe

These scones are more than just a pretty pastry. You’ll love how easy they are to make, how quickly they come together, and how impressive they look when served. They offer a perfect texture—crisp on the outside, tender and flaky inside. The cool peppermint adds a refreshing bite, while white chocolate brings a creamy, sweet contrast. Whether for a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or giftable holiday bake, these scones are a hit.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To prepare Peppermint White Chocolate Scones successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Mixing Bowls – For combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Pastry Cutter or Fork – Crucial for cutting cold butter into the flour mixture without melting it.
• Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper – Ensures even baking and easy cleanup.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accuracy is key for scone dough consistency.
• Cooling Rack – Lets the scones cool properly without becoming soggy.
• Knife or Bench Scraper – For cutting the dough into wedges cleanly.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl or Double Boiler – To gently melt white chocolate for drizzling.

Each tool helps preserve the delicate texture and rich flavor of the scones, especially when it comes to handling cold butter and even baking.

Preparation Tips

Keep your ingredients cold, especially the butter and cream—this is key to achieving those signature flaky layers. Don’t overwork the dough; gentle handling ensures the scones rise beautifully and stay tender. If your kitchen is warm, consider chilling your flour or even the mixed dough before baking. When mixing in the white chocolate chips, fold them in carefully to avoid melting. And for the peppermint topping, add the crushed candy canes right after glazing so they stick perfectly without melting into the surface.

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Ingredients for This Peppermint White Chocolate Scones Recipe

For the Scones:

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup (67g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick, 113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 2/3 cup (160ml) heavy cream, plus extra for brushing
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or chunks

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract

For Topping:

• 1/3 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
• Extra white chocolate for drizzling (optional)

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures all leavening and sweetening agents are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 3: Cut in the Cold Butter

Add the cubed cold butter into the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces. This is crucial for a flaky texture.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients Separately

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough just begins to come together. Do not overmix.

Step 6: Fold in the White Chocolate

Add the white chocolate chips or chunks and fold gently into the dough. This adds sweetness and creamy texture bursts in every bite.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a round disk about 1 inch thick. Use a bench scraper or sharp knife to cut into 8 wedges. Arrange the wedges on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

Step 8: Brush and Bake

Brush the tops with a little extra heavy cream for a golden finish. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the scones are lightly golden and firm to the touch. Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

While the scones are cooling, whisk together powdered sugar, milk or cream, and peppermint extract until smooth and pourable. Adjust consistency by adding more liquid if needed.

Step 10: Decorate and Serve

Drizzle the glaze over slightly warm scones. Immediately sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top so they stick. For extra richness, you can also drizzle melted white chocolate on top. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.

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Notes

For the flakiest, most tender scones, remember that temperature is everything—your butter, cream, and even your mixing bowl can benefit from being cold. If your dough feels too sticky, lightly flour your hands rather than adding excess flour to the dough. Feel free to adjust the peppermint intensity by changing the amount of extract or candy topping. These scones are also freezer-friendly before baking, making them perfect for prepping ahead during the busy holiday season.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overmixing the dough: This can lead to dense, tough scones. Mix just until everything is incorporated.
• Warm butter: Softened or melted butter ruins the texture. Always start with cold butter to achieve flakiness.
• Crowding the baking sheet: Give the scones space to expand while baking.
• Adding peppermint too early: If you mix crushed peppermint into the dough, it may melt and become sticky. Keep it on top for best texture and look.
• Not adjusting bake time: Oven temperatures vary. Keep an eye on your scones in the last few minutes.
• Overbaking: They should be golden at the edges, not overly brown.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze them (unglazed) for up to 2 months. If frozen, thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for 5–7 minutes at 325°F (160°C). Add glaze and crushed peppermint just before serving for the best texture and appearance.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Scone, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 330 kcal
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 18g
• Protein: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use full-fat coconut milk or whole milk, though the texture may be slightly less rich.

Can I use peppermint essential oil instead of extract?

No, peppermint essential oil is much more concentrated and not food-safe in most cases. Use only peppermint extract labeled for culinary use.

Can I make these scones ahead of time?

Yes! Freeze the unbaked, shaped scones on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes.

Can I skip the glaze?

Absolutely. The glaze adds sweetness and helps the peppermint topping stick, but the scones are delicious on their own.

How do I make these gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour that includes xanthan gum. You may need to adjust moisture slightly.

Why are my scones not rising?

This could be due to expired baking powder, overmixing the dough, or butter that was too soft.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?

You can, but it will change the flavor profile. White chocolate complements peppermint better for a creamy finish.

What should I serve with these scones?

Hot cocoa, peppermint tea, or a vanilla latte make excellent pairings. They also go well with clotted cream or sweet butter.

Conclusion

Peppermint White Chocolate Scones are a festive, indulgent treat that’s both beautiful and easy to make. With just the right balance of minty freshness and creamy sweetness, they’re perfect for winter brunches, holiday gifts, or cozy mornings. Follow the tips in this guide and you’ll have bakery-quality scones that’ll impress at any gathering or elevate your quiet morning ritual. Once you make them, they’re sure to become a seasonal tradition.

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