Apple Walnut Scones

Apple Walnut Scones

3 C. unbleached all-purpose flour

1/3 C. sugar

1 T. baking powder

1/2 t. baking soda

1 t. salt

1/4 t. freshly grated nutmeg

grated zest of one small lemon

3/4 C. (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter

1 C. finely chopped tart apple, peeled or not

1/2 C. chopped walnuts

1 C. buttermilk

2 T. sugar mixed with 1/2 t. cinnamon

Preheat the oven to 400° F. Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg and lemon zest in a mixing bowl. Cut in the butter with a fork or fingers, until coarse crumbs form. Stir in the chopped apples and walnuts, then the buttermilk, and mix until a sticky dough forms.

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured work surface and knead it gently just until it holds together. Divide into 3 equal pieces and pat each into a round about 1-inch thick and 6 inches across. Cut each round into 4 wedges, and sprinkle them with the spice-sugar mixture.

Place the scones 1 inch apart on a greased baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until golden brown. Serve immediately.

Yield: makes 12.