Homemade scones can be very dry and I had been very disappointed with the results I was getting. That is until now! The not so secret ingredient in these scones is the full fat Buttermilk. Buttermilk has a solid reputation for producing tender baked goods and these scones are no exception! *The applesauce can be homemade or store bought but should be the chunkiest you can get. You could also use good quality canned pie apples cut into smaller chunks.
Applesauce Pecan Scones
1 cup of sugar
1 tablespoon of baking powder
pinch of salt
4 cups All-Purpose Flour
1 ½ sticks of grated cold unsalted butter
2 eggs
1 cup of buttermilk
1 cup prepared chunky applesauce*
½ cup plus 1 tablespoon chopped lightly toasted pecans
1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar
¾ cup of powdered sugar
2 tablespoons whipped cream-cheese
2 or more tablespoons cold water
1 tablespoon Demerara sugar
1. Preheat the oven to 375°.
2. In a large bowl use a pastry blender or a large fork to combine together the sugar, baking powder, salt, flour, and butter until the butter is just coated evenly with the flour.
3. In a separate small bowl whisk together the eggs and butter milk until combined and then pour it to the large bowl with the butter mixture. Mix until a soft dough has been formed.
4. Transfer the dough to a clean surface that has been lightly dusted with flour. Form a large disc and place the applesauce, cinnamon sugar and ½ cup of nuts evenly over the top of the dough. Gently fold the dough over twice to make sure the applesauce and nuts have been incorporated throughout the dough and then form it into a disc again. It will be a little messy that's OK.
5. Transfer the disc to a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Cut 12 slices like wheel spokes into the dough.
Sprinkle the top of the dough with 1 tablespoon nuts and Demerara sugar
6. Bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until lightly golden brown on top. Let cool to room temperature.
7. In a small bowl whisk together the powdered sugar and whipped cream-cheese; add tablespoons of water until icing is smooth. Drizzle icing over the cooled scones.