Ingredients:

For the Scones:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

1/2 cup buttermilk, cold

1 large egg, cold

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup high-quality dark chocolate, chopped

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

2-3 tablespoons buttermilk

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:

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

2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Cut in Butter:

Add cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Mix Wet Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract.

5. Combine Wet and Dry:

Pour the wet ingredients into the flour-butter mixture. Stir until just combined.

6. Add Chocolate:

Gently fold in the chopped dark chocolate until evenly distributed through the dough.

7. Shape the Scones:

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle.

Cut the rectangle into squares or use a round cutter to make scones.

8. Bake:

Place the shaped scones on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.

9. Make the Glaze:

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

10. Glaze the Scones:

Once the scones have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top.

11. Serve:

Serve the Buttermilk Chocolate Scones warm, either on their own or with a dollop of clotted cream.

Optional Tips:

For an extra touch of luxury, consider using high-quality chocolate with a cocoa content of at least 70%.

You can sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the glaze for a gourmet touch.

These Buttermilk Chocolate Scones strike the perfect balance between flaky texture and rich chocolate flavor, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy the decadence!