Banana Scones

These Banana Scones are a delightful and quick treat that can brighten up any breakfast or snack time. Made with just three simple ingredients, they come together in less than 30 minutes. Their soft, moist texture and sweet banana flavor make them irresistible. These scones are perfect for sharing at brunches, enjoying with your morning coffee, or even as an after-school treat for the kids. Plus, they are versatile enough to customize with nuts, a maple glaze, or chocolate chips!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only three main ingredients, these scones come together in no time.
• Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy a delicious treat without any animal products.
• Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or dairy-free chocolate for unique flavors.
• Oil-Free Option: These scones are light and healthy, making them a great choice for guilt-free snacking.
• Perfectly Sweet: The natural sweetness of bananas shines through without the need for added sugars.

Tools and Preparation

To create these scrumptious Banana Scones, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowl
• Fork or stand mixer with paddle attachment
• Measuring cups
• Cookie cutter
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is essential to combine all ingredients effectively.
• Fork or Stand Mixer: Mashing bananas is easier with these tools, ensuring a smooth consistency.
• Cookie Cutter: Helps shape uniform scones for even baking and appealing presentation.

Ingredients

These Banana Scones are easy 3-ingredient vegan banana bread scones. They are easy to make in less than 30 minutes, oil-free, and easy to customize by adding nuts, maple glaze, or chocolate chips.

Ingredients:
– 3 1/2 cups Self-Rising Flour (+ 1/4 cup to work the dough (note 1))
– 1 1/3 cup Mashed Banana (a bit less than 3 large bananas (note 2))
– 2/3 cup Vanilla Plant-Based Yogurt (+ a bit more to brush on top of the scones (note 3))
– 1/2 cup Dairy-Free Dark Chocolate Chips (or chopped pecans, walnuts)
– 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
– 1/4 cup Unrefined Sugar

How to Make Banana Scones

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 390°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly oil it with cooking spray. Set it aside.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, add the bananas and mash them using a fork or the paddle attachment of a stand mixer until smooth.

Step 3: Measure the Mashed Bananas

Pack the mashed bananas into a measuring cup until you have 1 cup + 1/3 cup of mashed banana.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the mashed bananas to the mixing bowl. Add in the yogurt and self-rising flour. If you’re using optional ingredients like cinnamon and sugar, add them now as well.

Step 5: Mix the Dough

Initially stir with a spoon before switching to kneading. Flour your hands and either knead by hand or use the stand mixer’s paddle attachment until you form a sticky but crumbly dough.

Step 6: Fold in Extras

If you’re adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor, fold them into the dough now.

Step 7: Prepare Your Work Surface

Clean your hands if messy and lightly oil them to prevent sticking. Oil your cookie cutter as well for easy cutting.

Step 8: Shape the Dough

Sprinkle about two tablespoons of flour onto your work surface. Place the dough on it, sprinkle some more flour on top, then flatten it into about a 0.8-inch thickness (2 cm) using your hands or a rolling pin.

Step 9: Cut Out Scones

Use your cookie cutter (about 5 cm) to cut out pieces of dough from the flattened mixture.

Step 10: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place each cut-out scone onto your prepared baking sheet with some space between each one—around thumb width—since they will expand mostly in height while baking.

Step 11: Reuse Leftover Dough

Gather any leftover dough pieces together; press them back into shape and roll out again to cut more scones from this mixture.

Step 12: Brush with Yogurt

Using a pastry brush, gently coat the top of each scone with additional plant-based yogurt for an appealing finish.

Step 13: Bake Scones

Bake on the center rack of your preheated oven for about 15 to 17 minutes until golden brown on top.

Step 14: Cool Down

Once done baking, allow your Banana Scones to cool on a wire rack before serving.

How to Serve Banana Scones

These delightful Banana Scones can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your scone experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Serve alongside fresh strawberries or blueberries for a burst of flavor and color.
• Banana Slices: Top with extra banana slices to amplify the banana goodness.

With Spreads

• Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter for added protein and richness.
• Maple Syrup: Drizzle a bit of maple syrup on top for a sweet touch.

With Dairy-Free Cream

• Coconut Whipped Cream: A dollop of coconut whipped cream adds a light and airy texture.
• Vegan Cream Cheese: Pair with vegan cream cheese for a creamy contrast.

As a Dessert

• Chocolate Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of dairy-free dark chocolate for an indulgent treat.
• Ice Cream: Serve warm scones with your favorite non-dairy ice cream for a delicious dessert option.

How to Perfect Banana Scones

Perfecting your Banana Scones is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your scones will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep the scones light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense scones.
• Chill the Dough: If time allows, chill the dough before baking. This helps maintain shape during baking.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your scones towards the end of baking; every oven is different. You want them golden but not burnt.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits. Customize based on your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Scones

Pairing side dishes with your Banana Scones can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the scones perfectly.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer vegan yogurt with granola and fruits for a filling breakfast option.
3. Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds makes a nutritious pairing.
4. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal adds heartiness and pairs well with the flavors of banana.
5. Chia Pudding: This light dish offers texture and nutritional benefits that balance out the scone’s sweetness.
6. Avocado Toast: The creaminess of avocado on whole grain bread provides a savory complement to sweet scones.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Banana Scones can be a breeze, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Using Too Much Flour: Adding excess flour can make the scones dry and tough. Measure carefully and remember that the dough should be sticky.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to dense scones. Stir just until combined and knead gently to maintain a light texture.
• Skipping the Yogurt: The yogurt adds moisture and flavor. Don’t substitute it with regular milk or omit it; use plant-based alternatives instead.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Starting with a cold oven can affect the rise of your scones. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
• Ignoring Bake Time: Keep an eye on your scones as they bake. Remove them when golden brown; overbaking will result in dryness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Timeframe: Store leftover Banana Scones in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out.

Freezing Banana Scones

• Timeframe: You can freeze Banana Scones for up to 2 months.
• Containers: Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating Banana Scones

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5–10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat for about 15-20 seconds on medium power, checking frequently to avoid making them too soft.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid for about 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Banana Scones vegan?

These Banana Scones are made without any animal products, using plant-based yogurt instead of dairy.

Can I customize my Banana Scones?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or even spices like nutmeg for extra flavor.

How do I know when my Banana Scones are done?

Your scones are ready when they turn golden brown on top and have risen nicely in the oven.

What should I serve with Banana Scones?

They pair beautifully with fruit spreads, plant-based butter, or simply enjoyed on their own!

Conclusion

These easy Banana Scones are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite add-ins or enjoy them plain. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, don’t hesitate to try this simple recipe!

---