Lemon Poppyseed Croissant Scones

Name: Lemon Poppyseed Croissant Scones
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 scones
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon poppy seeds; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold & cubed; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 large eggs; Zest of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Highlighted under: Dessert Lover’s Collection

I absolutely adore mornings filled with the brightness of lemon and the delightful crunch of poppy seeds. When I first combined the flaky texture of croissants with the moist crumb of scones, I knew I was onto something special. These Lemon Poppyseed Croissant Scones offer a unique twist on traditional flavors, bringing together the best of both worlds in every bite. Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, they are an indulgent and refreshing way to start the day or enjoy an afternoon treat.

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-01-25T21:06:27.307Z

When I first tried out this recipe, I was amazed at how the rich buttery flavor of croissants intermingled with the zesty lemon notes. The combination of flaky layers and the slight crunch from the poppy seeds brought a joy that I hadn’t expected. It’s this harmonious blend that makes each bite truly satisfying.

One of the secrets to achieving that perfect flaky texture is working cold butter into the dough. My tip is to refrigerate the dough for a while before baking; this guarantees that your scones rise beautifully and are wonderfully soft in the middle. Trust me, it makes a notable difference!

Why You'll Love These Scones
Bright lemony flavor that invigorates your senses
Flaky and buttery texture perfect for coffee breaks
A delightful twist on traditional scones with a crunchy poppy seed finish

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of all-purpose flour and granulated sugar in these scones creates a tender yet structured base. The sugar not only sweetens the dough but also contributes to a desirable golden color during baking. For a richer flavor and enhanced texture, ensure your butter is very cold; this promotes flakiness by preventing the fat from melting before baking. If you decide to use chilled coconut oil instead of butter, keep in mind that it may alter the final texture slightly, resulting in a denser scone.

Poppy seeds add a unique crunch and visual appeal. You'll want to use fresh poppy seeds for the best flavor. If you're looking for a substitute, consider using sesame seeds or finely chopped nuts, though this will change the flavor profile. Additionally, the lemon juice and zest are crucial, as they infuse moisture and brighten the overall flavor of the scones, bringing a refreshing contrast to the buttery richness.

Perfecting Your Technique

When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, aim for a gentle touch. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in tough scones rather than the desired tender crumb. Stop mixing as soon as you see no dry flour; the dough should still be slightly shaggy. If your dough seems too crumbly, a tablespoon of milk can help bind it together without compromising the texture. After shaping the dough, allow it to rest for a few minutes before cutting; this helps relax the gluten and can enhance the texture.

As you bake, keep a close eye on the scones. They should rise beautifully and turn golden brown in 20-25 minutes. If the tops are browning too quickly, you can loosely tent them with aluminum foil. Once baked, cool them for a few minutes on the tray before transferring them to a wire rack, which helps maintain their flapjack-like crispness without getting soggy bottoms.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Lemon Poppyseed Croissant Scones:

Scone Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold & cubed
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 large eggs
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Make sure all ingredients are at the right temperature for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious scones:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds.

Cut in Butter

Add the cold cubed butter into the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.

Shape the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into 12 wedges.

Bake the Scones

Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Let the scones cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, brush the scones with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice after baking.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These Lemon Poppyseed Croissant Scones are best enjoyed fresh, still warm from the oven. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing unbaked scones. Shape and cut the dough, freeze the wedges on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. You can bake them straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

To serve these scones, pair them with a dollop of clotted cream or lemon curd for an elevated treat. A simple sprinkling of powdered sugar atop will add a sweet touch and an extra pop of flavor. They also pair exceptionally well with a glass of iced tea or chilled sparkling water to balance their richness.

Experimenting with Flavors

Feel free to explore variations on this recipe! Adding fresh or dried fruits such as blueberries or cranberries can introduce additional layers of flavor and texture. If lemon isn't your preference, substitute with orange zest and juice for a different citrus kick. For a herbaceous twist, a teaspoon of finely chopped fresh thyme or rosemary can complement the lemon and add aromatic depth.

For a richer flavor boost, try incorporating a quarter cup of almond or coconut flour as part of the dry ingredients. This not only adds a nutty undertone but can also enhance the scone's moisture content. When you find a combination you love, make a note of the adjustments for your next baking adventure.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen dough?

Yes, you can freeze the prepared dough for up to a month. Just remember to thaw before baking.

→ How do I store leftover scones?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add nuts or dried fruit?

Absolutely! Almonds or dried cranberries would be delicious additions to this recipe.

→ What if I don't have poppy seeds?

You can omit the poppy seeds or substitute them with sesame seeds for a different flavor.