Introduction

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to making vegan scones—a delightful treat that adheres to plant-based principles while offering an irresistibly delicious experience. This recipe is meticulously crafted to ensure that each scone is light, flaky, and perfectly sweetened, all while being compatible with Weight Watchers (WW) guidelines for a healthier lifestyle. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or just exploring plant-based options, these scones will become a cherished addition to your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

  • All-Purpose Flour: 2 1/2 cups (315 grams)
  • Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup (50 grams)
  • Baking Powder: 2 tablespoons (15 grams)
  • Baking Soda: 1/2 teaspoon (2 grams)
  • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 grams)
  • Coconut Oil: 1/4 cup (60 milliliters), solid
  • Almond Milk: 3/4 cup (180 milliliters), or any plant-based milk of your choice
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters)
  • Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters)
  • Lemon Zest: 1 tablespoon (6 grams), finely grated
  • Optional Add-ins: 1/2 cup (60 grams) of vegan chocolate chips, dried fruit (e.g., cranberries, raisins), or chopped nuts (e.g., pecans, walnuts)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the scones will bake evenly and develop a golden-brown crust.
  2. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This helps prevent the scones from sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until the mixture is evenly distributed.
  4. Incorporate the Coconut Oil: Cut the solid coconut oil into small chunks and add it to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the coconut oil into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving a light, flaky texture.
  5. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the almond milk, apple cider vinegar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. The apple cider vinegar reacts with the baking soda to create a light and airy texture in the scones.
  6. Add Wet to Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense scones.
  7. Fold in Optional Add-ins: If you are using vegan chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts, fold them into the batter at this stage. This adds extra flavor and texture to the scones.
  8. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead the dough a few times until it comes together. Pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle or circle, depending on your preference.
  9. Cut the Scones: Using a sharp knife or a scone cutter, cut the dough into triangles or circles. Place the cut scones onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
  10. Bake the Scones: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary based on your oven and the size of your scones.
  11. Cool and Serve: Allow the scones to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set properly and ensures they maintain their texture.
  12. Enjoy: Serve the scones warm or at room temperature. They are perfect on their own or with a spread of your favorite vegan butter or jam.

Nutritional Information

  • Serving Size: 1 scone (approx. 2.5 inches in diameter)
  • Calories: 180
  • Total Fat: 8 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 7 grams
  • Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
  • Sodium: 150 milligrams
  • Total Carbohydrates: 25 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 1 gram
  • Sugars: 8 grams
  • Protein: 3 grams

WW SmartPoints

  • Per Serving: 6 SmartPoints (based on the WW Freestyle and myWW Blue plans)

Additional Tips

  • Flour Alternatives: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. Adjust the liquid content as necessary to achieve the right dough consistency.
  • Sweetener Variations: If you prefer a less sugary scone, consider using a lower-calorie sweetener like Stevia or Monk Fruit. Ensure the substitute measures equivalently to granulated sugar.
  • Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with different flavorings by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can also provide a savory twist.
  • Storage: Store the scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in a toaster oven or microwave for best results.
  • Serving Suggestions: Vegan scones are versatile and can be enjoyed with a variety of accompaniments. Pair them with fresh fruit, vegan yogurt, or a hot cup of tea for a delightful snack or breakfast.

Conclusion

This Vegan Scone recipe offers a perfect blend of health-conscious ingredients and traditional flavors, making it an ideal choice for those adhering to a plant-based diet. By following this detailed guide, you can create scones that are not only delicious but also align with Weight Watchers’ SmartPoints system, ensuring that you stay on track with your health goals. Enjoy the process of baking and savoring these delightful scones, knowing that they offer a treat that is both wholesome and satisfying.