Cherry Almond Scones: Buttery, Flaky, and Better Than The Bakery

Cherry Almond Scones are the kind of treat that make any morning feel a little more special.

Sweet, juicy cherries and rich almond flavor pair beautifully together, creating a bakery-style scone that tastes both comforting and elegant.

These scones are soft and tender on the inside, with buttery, lightly crisp edges that are hard to resist.

The simple ingredients and easy steps make them approachable for beginners, while the delicious results will impress family and friends alike.

Grab your mixing bowl and let’s bake a batch that looks and tastes like it came straight from your favorite bakery.

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Almond Scones Recipe

• Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients – No fancy ingredients are needed, making this recipe perfect for everyday baking.
• Soft, flaky texture with crisp golden edges – Each scone bakes up tender and buttery inside with a lightly crisp exterior.
• Sweet cherries paired with nutty almond flavor – The fruity sweetness of cherries and the rich taste of almond create a delicious balance.
• Great for make-ahead breakfasts and gatherings – Bake them in advance for an easy treat that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.

What Are Cherry Almond Scones?

Cherry Almond Scones are a sweet variation of traditional scones, a classic baked good that originated in the United Kingdom and has become popular around the world for breakfast, brunch, and afternoon tea.

Traditional scones are made from a simple dough that combines flour, butter, a leavening agent such as baking powder, and a liquid like cream or milk, creating a tender pastry that is somewhere between a biscuit and a cake in texture.

British-style scones are typically less sweet and are often served with jam and cream, while American-style scones tend to be richer, slightly sweeter, and packed with flavorful add-ins such as fruit, nuts, chocolate, or glazes.

This Cherry Almond Scones recipe follows the American-style approach, giving you a buttery, flaky texture with plenty of flavor in every bite rather than relying on toppings alone.

The addition of cherries brings natural sweetness, a pop of color, and juicy bursts of fruit throughout the scones, making them feel both fresh and comforting.

Almond extract adds a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries, enhancing their sweetness and creating a flavor combination that feels special without requiring extra effort.

Together, the cherries and almond create a bakery-style treat that tastes elegant enough for holidays and brunch gatherings while still being simple enough to enjoy on an ordinary morning.

The result is a soft, tender scone with golden edges, balanced sweetness, and a classic flavor pairing that never goes out of style.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Scones

• 2 ½ cups (312 g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure while keeping the scones tender.
• ⅓ cup (67 g) granulated sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder – Helps the scones rise and become light and fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
• ½ cup (113 g) cold unsalted butter, cubed – Creates a flaky, buttery texture.
• ¾ cup (180 ml) heavy cream – Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
• 1 large egg – Helps bind the ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon almond extract – Gives the scones their signature almond flavor.
• 1 cup (150 g) chopped fresh or frozen cherries, or ¾ cup (120 g) dried cherries – Adds sweet, fruity bursts in every bite.
• ⅓ cup (30 g) sliced almonds – Adds a delicate crunch and extra almond flavor.

For the Almond Glaze (Optional)

• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar – Creates a smooth, sweet glaze.
• 2–3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream – Thins the glaze to a drizzle-friendly consistency.
• ½ teaspoon almond extract – Adds a boost of almond flavor that pairs perfectly with the scones.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

Choosing the Best Cherries

Fresh Cherries

Fresh cherries provide the juiciest texture and brightest flavor.

Sweet varieties such as Bing cherries work especially well in this recipe.

Be sure to pit and roughly chop them before adding them to the dough so they distribute evenly throughout the scones.

Frozen Cherries

Frozen cherries are a convenient option when fresh cherries are not in season.

Use them straight from the freezer rather than thawing them first, as thawed cherries can release excess moisture into the dough and affect the texture of the scones.

Dried Cherries

Dried cherries offer concentrated sweetness and a slightly chewy texture.

They are an excellent choice for make-ahead baking because they add flavor without introducing extra moisture.

If they seem very dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes and pat them dry before using.

Almond Flavor Options

Almond Extract

Almond extract delivers the classic almond flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries.

A small amount goes a long way, so measure carefully to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.

Almond Paste

For a richer almond flavor, you can add 2 to 3 tablespoons of finely crumbled almond paste to the dough.

It creates a slightly softer texture and adds extra sweetness.

Toasted Almonds

Toasted sliced almonds add a pleasant crunch and deepen the nutty flavor.

Toast them for a few minutes until lightly golden for the best results, then let them cool before mixing them into the dough or sprinkling them on top.

Dairy Alternatives

Plant-Based Cream Options

Full-fat coconut cream, oat cream, or a rich plant-based cooking cream can be used in place of heavy cream.

Choose an unsweetened variety to maintain the intended flavor balance of the scones.

Vegan Butter Substitutions

A good-quality vegan butter substitute can replace the unsalted butter in equal amounts.

For the flakiest texture, keep the vegan butter cold and handle it just as you would regular butter when mixing the dough.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls – Used for combining the dry and wet ingredients separately before making the dough.
• Pastry cutter or fork – Helps cut the cold butter into the flour mixture to create a flaky texture.
• Baking sheet – Provides a sturdy surface for baking the scones evenly.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup quick and easy.
• Bench scraper or knife – Useful for shaping the dough and cutting it into neat wedges.

How to Make Cherry Almond Scones

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper so it’s ready when your dough is shaped.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until everything is evenly combined.

Taking a minute to thoroughly mix the dry ingredients helps ensure the baking powder is distributed evenly, which promotes a consistent rise throughout the scones.

Step 2: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture.

Using a pastry cutter or a fork, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.

Those small pieces of cold butter are what create flaky layers as the scones bake, so don’t worry about making the mixture perfectly smooth.

If the butter starts to soften while you’re working, place the bowl in the refrigerator for a few minutes before continuing.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and almond extract until smooth.

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients.

Use a spoon or spatula to gently mix everything together until a shaggy dough begins to form and no large pockets of dry flour remain.

The dough may look slightly rough at this stage, which is exactly what you want.

Step 4: Fold in Cherries and Almonds

Add the chopped cherries and sliced almonds to the dough.

Gently fold them in just until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Try not to overmix during this step, as too much handling can make the finished scones dense instead of light and tender.

A few uneven spots are completely fine and often give homemade scones their rustic charm.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.

Gently press it together into a round disc about 1 inch thick.

If the dough feels slightly sticky, dust your hands with a small amount of flour rather than adding too much directly to the dough.

Use a bench scraper or sharp knife to cut the circle into 8 equal wedges.

Carefully transfer the wedges to the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.

Step 6: Chill Before Baking

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes before baking.

This simple step helps the butter stay cold, which leads to flakier layers and better texture.

Chilling also helps the scones hold their shape in the oven and encourages a taller rise.

If you’re making the dough ahead of time, you can refrigerate the shaped scones for longer until you’re ready to bake.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake the scones for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and the edges are slightly crisp.

The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your scones.

Look for a dry surface, golden edges, and a lightly browned bottom as signs that they’re done.

Allow the scones to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 8: Add the Glaze

While the scones cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk or cream, and almond extract until smooth.

Let the scones cool completely before glazing so the icing stays on top rather than melting into the pastry.

Drizzle the glaze over the cooled scones using a spoon or small whisk.

For an extra-special finish, sprinkle a few additional sliced almonds on top while the glaze is still wet.

Once the glaze has set, your Cherry Almond Scones are ready to serve and enjoy.

Tips for Perfect Cherry Almond Scones

• Keep ingredients cold – Cold butter and cream help create flaky layers and a tender texture.
• Avoid overmixing – Mix the dough just until combined to keep the scones light and soft.
• Use fresh baking powder – Fresh baking powder ensures the scones rise properly and bake up fluffy.
• Chill the dough before baking – A short chill helps the scones hold their shape and improves their texture.
• Do not overbake – Remove the scones when they are lightly golden to prevent them from becoming dry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using warm butter – Warm butter melts too quickly and prevents the scones from developing flaky layers.
• Adding too much flour – Excess flour can make the dough dry and result in dense, heavy scones.
• Overworking the dough – Handling the dough too much can create tough scones instead of tender ones.
• Skipping the chilling step – Chilling helps the butter stay cold, leading to better texture and a higher rise.
• Baking at the wrong temperature – An oven that is too hot or too cool can affect the scones’ texture, color, and baking time.

Variations to Try

White Chocolate Cherry Almond Scones

If you enjoy sweeter bakery-style treats, try adding ½ cup of white chocolate chips to the dough along with the cherries.

The creamy sweetness of white chocolate pairs beautifully with both the tart fruit and the nutty almond flavor.

For an extra-special finish, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled scones instead of the almond glaze.

This variation is especially popular for holidays, brunches, and dessert-style breakfasts.

Dark Chocolate Cherry Scones

Dark chocolate creates a richer flavor that balances the sweetness of the cherries.

Add ½ cup of chopped dark chocolate or dark chocolate chips to the dough before shaping the scones.

The slight bitterness of dark chocolate complements the fruit and gives the scones a more sophisticated flavor profile.

This version pairs particularly well with coffee and makes a wonderful afternoon treat.

Lemon Cherry Almond Scones

A little lemon can brighten the entire recipe and make the flavors feel fresh and vibrant.

Add 1 tablespoon of finely grated lemon zest to the dry ingredients before mixing the dough.

You can also replace part of the cream in the glaze with fresh lemon juice for a citrusy finish.

The combination of cherry, almond, and lemon creates a light and refreshing twist that is perfect for spring and summer.

Mini Cherry Almond Scones

Mini scones are a great option for parties, brunch buffets, and afternoon tea gatherings.

Instead of cutting the dough into 8 wedges, divide it into 12 to 16 smaller portions.

Reduce the baking time by a few minutes and begin checking for doneness early to prevent overbaking.

These bite-sized treats are easy to serve and allow guests to sample multiple baked goods without feeling too full.

Gluten-Free Cherry Almond Scones

Making these scones gluten-free is simple with the right flour blend.

Replace the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of a quality gluten-free baking flour that includes a binding ingredient such as xanthan gum.

The dough may feel slightly different to work with, but it should still come together easily when mixed gently.

Keep an eye on the texture as you mix and add a small splash of cream if the dough seems too dry.

You’ll still get delicious cherry-almond flavor with a tender crumb that everyone can enjoy.

What to Serve with Cherry Almond Scones

• Coffee drinks – A hot latte, cappuccino, or freshly brewed coffee complements the buttery almond flavor perfectly.
• Tea pairings – Black tea, Earl Grey, or chamomile tea pairs beautifully with the sweet cherries and delicate almond notes.
• Fresh fruit – Berries, sliced peaches, or mixed fruit add freshness and balance to the rich scones.
• Yogurt parfaits – Creamy yogurt layered with granola and fruit creates a light and satisfying side dish.
• Brunch spreads – Serve alongside eggs, quiche, breakfast casseroles, or other pastries for a complete brunch table.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Storing at Room Temperature

Cherry Almond Scones are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Place the completely cooled scones in an airtight container to help maintain their texture and prevent them from drying out.

If you have already added the glaze, allow it to set fully before stacking the scones to avoid sticking.

For the best flavor and texture, warm a scone for a few seconds in the microwave before serving.

Refrigerating Leftovers

If you need to keep the scones longer, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Refrigeration can cause baked goods to firm up slightly, but a quick warm-up in the microwave or oven will help restore their softness.

Make sure the scones are fully cooled before refrigerating them to prevent excess moisture from building up inside the container.

A piece of paper towel placed in the container can help absorb any condensation and keep the scones fresher.

Freezing Baked Scones

Baked scones freeze very well and are a great option for future breakfasts or snacks.

Allow the scones to cool completely before wrapping them individually in plastic wrap or placing them in a freezer-safe container.

Store them in the freezer for up to 3 months for the best quality.

When you’re ready to enjoy one, thaw it at room temperature and warm it briefly in the oven or microwave.

If possible, freeze the scones before adding the glaze and drizzle it on after reheating for the freshest presentation.

Freezing Unbaked Scone Dough

Freezing unbaked dough is one of the easiest ways to prepare fresh scones ahead of time.

Shape the dough into wedges and place them on a baking sheet until firm.

Transfer the frozen wedges to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to bake, place the frozen scones directly on a lined baking sheet without thawing.

Add a few extra minutes to the baking time and bake until the tops are golden and the centers are fully cooked.

Final Thoughts

These Cherry Almond Scones combine sweet cherries, rich almond flavor, and a buttery, flaky texture to create a treat that’s perfect for any time of day.

Don’t be afraid to make the recipe your own by adding chocolate, citrus, extra nuts, or any favorite mix-ins that you enjoy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, frozen cherries work well in this recipe. Use them straight from the freezer to avoid adding excess moisture to the dough.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and shape the dough up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Why are my scones dry?

Dry scones are usually caused by adding too much flour or baking them for too long. Measure carefully and remove them from the oven as soon as they turn golden.

Can I use almond flour?

Almond flour should not fully replace the all-purpose flour in this recipe, as it changes the texture and structure. For best results, use it as a partial substitute only.

How do I keep scones flaky?

Keep the butter cold, avoid overmixing the dough, and chill the shaped scones before baking to create tender, flaky layers.