Petite Vanilla Bean Scones

kitty | March 9, 2023   SKIP TO RECIPE  

A platter lined with Petite Vanilla Bean Scones

Scones are amazing in all their glorious variations, but petite scones are even better. These mini scones are such a fun, yet sophisticated treat that are sure to stun. They are just the right size to have a few bites of something light and delicious with a cup of tea or coffee. Inspired by the vanilla bean scones at Starbucks, these scones transcend their muse. We’re not big on Starbucks, but my husband really likes their little scones, so he asked if I could make some. Since I’ve been making them, he’s never eaten theirs, and these babies are a solid staple in our regular rotation of homemade desserts.

Petite vanilla bean scones are much smaller than the typical scone, but not lacking in any flavor or amazing texture, thanks to generous use of vanilla and butter. These little cuties taste just how they look: dainty and sweet. The dough itself has a subtle sweetness that shines on its own, and the glaze on top complements the dominant vanilla flavor without cloying the palette; plus they look super cute and proper with those speckled vanilla seeds. We like this glaze much better than the thick, hardened layer of icing on the Starbucks scones, since it detracts from the delicate texture of the scone. The tender, slightly flakey crumb harkens almost to a biscuit that has a delightful chew and practically melts in the mouth.

Now, I know vanilla beans seem like a fancy ingredient to have on hand, but they are actually really accessible and affordable.  We usually buy a pack of 5 grade A or B beans from Costco or Amazon; both are absolutely fine for making extract.  I always have a few bottles of homemade vanilla extract (I haven’t bought a bottle of the stuff  in years!) in various stages of readiness in the pantry, so I simply fish out a vanilla pod and scrape out the seeds anytime these scones are on deck. They are absolutely worth having for this recipe.  

We have featured these babies at many different special occasions, taken them to relatives and friends when visiting, or just have them stocked in our cookie jar. Most recently, they staged beautifully next to cake and other sweets at Mini’s birthday party, and ended up going home with many guests. They’re so simple and quick to make, but look and taste elegant, making them a great addition to any special dessert table or everyday treat stash. 

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • ½ cup heavy cream or milk
  • 1½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped out
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1½ tablespoons heavy cream or milk

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Preheat the oven to 375° F. Line baking sheets with silicone mats.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. With a pastry blender or fork, cut in butter cubes until the flour mixture resembles a coarse meal and butter is no larger than pea-sized chunks.
  3. Stream in the cream or milk and vanilla extract. Stir with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until the dough just comes together. Use hands to knead very slightly and pat into a ball, ensuring all flour is combined.
  4. Divide the dough into 3 equal portions. Flatten each portion into 5-6” discs and place onto silicone mats. Cut each disc into 6 triangles and place ½” apart on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes until the tops and bottoms are slightly golden.
  5. For the glaze, combine powdered sugar, cream or milk, vanilla seeds, and vanilla extract in a small bowl, whisking until smooth. Adjust sugar and milk to reach semi-thick, honey-like consistency.
  6. Remove scones from the oven and cool completely on wire racks before dipping each scone into glaze. Return each scone to a wire rack for excess glaze to drip off. Allow glaze to set completely. Store at room temperature in an airtight container.

A Petite Vanilla Bean Scone with vanilla bean icing on a plate
A Petite Vanilla Bean Scone on a plate with a bite taken out of it
A platter full of Petite Vanilla Bean Scones
A platter full of Petite Vanilla Bean Scones and some vanilla bean pods for garnish
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