Orange Almond Buttermilk Scones

Instructions

1. 1

   Sugar and crushed almonds, optional garnish Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

2. 2

   Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or butter and flour them.

3. 3

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

4. 4

   Cut butter into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or food processor until mixture has a coarse texture, with small-pea-size pieces of butter visible.

5. 5

   Using the large-hole side of a box grater, grate the chilled almond paste into the bowl of flour mixture and toss until completely mixed in.

6. 6

   In a medium bowl using an electric mixer, mix orange rind, buttermilk, 1 egg and almond extract, until well blended.

7. 7

   Add buttermilk mixture to flour mixture and stir vigorously until dough forms a ball.

8. 8

   Turn out onto a lightly floured work table and knead 6 to 8 turns.

9. 9

   Shape into a rectangle and roll out to a 1/2-inch thickness.

10. 10

    Using a 2 1/2-inch round cookie cutter, cut out scones and place on the cookie sheets.

11. 11

    In a small bowl, beat remaining egg with a tablespoon of water; use this to brush the tops of the scones.

12. 12

    If desired, sprinkle the tops with sugar and-or crushed almonds.

13. 13

    Bake for 14 to 16 minutes, or until lightly golden.

14. 14

    Cool on wire racks.

15. 15

    Makes 20 scones