Scones are notorious for losing their texture quickly, but freezing them can be a practical solution. This guide details how to freeze scones effectively, ensuring they remain tender and flavorful, whether for short-term storage or convenient weekend baking.
The Experiment: Fresh, Refrigerated, and Frozen Dough
The question of how well scones freeze arises often, particularly since many home bakers—and professional ones working with limited space—prefer a fresh-baked approach. To test the method, three batches of a basic chocolate scone dough were prepared. The control batch was baked immediately, rising to a height of approximately one and a quarter to one and three-quarters inches, yielding a light, crisp texture.
Two additional batches were wrapped in plastic and stored: one in the refrigerator for 24 hours, and one in the freezer for the same duration. The goal was to observe how cold storage affected the dough’s rise, shape, and final texture.
Refrigerated Dough: Slight Deformity, No Loss in Quality
The refrigerated dough required the same baking time as the fresh batch but exhibited some deformation during baking. The edges of the scones melted and drooped slightly, resulting in a less-defined shape. However, this cosmetic issue did not affect the final texture: the scones remained light, tender, and crisp.
Frozen Dough: Convenience Trumps Perfection
The frozen dough was baked directly from frozen to maximize convenience. It spread more during baking, creating cracks on the surface, but baked in the same amount of time. The shape was less uniform than that of the fresh or refrigerated scones, but the convenience factor outweighed the minor visual flaws.
Best Practices for Freezing Scones
To preserve quality when freezing scones, several steps are recommended:
- Skip Toppings: Avoid freezing scones with toppings like cheese or sugar, as they can draw moisture and become syrupy over time.
- Double Wrap: Wrap wedges or a whole wheel of dough tightly in multiple layers of plastic wrap, followed by foil for insulation against odor absorption.
- Label Clearly: Mark the date on the foil to prevent forgetting when the scones were frozen. Use within two months for optimal results.
Why This Matters
Freezing scones isn’t about achieving a perfect shape; it’s about preserving freshness and convenience. Scones stale quickly once baked, making freezing a valuable option for enjoying them at their best, especially over a weekend. The slight imperfections in shape are a small price to pay for the ability to have freshly baked scones readily available.
Ultimately, freezing scones is a practical method for home bakers and busy professionals alike, offering a reliable way to enjoy freshly baked goods without sacrificing quality.
