Author Notes
Just like the traditional German Christmas bread, these scones have a marzipan middle.
Gratefully reprinted from the National Trust Book of Scones by Sarah Clelland. —Food52
Ingredients
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500 grams
self-raising flour
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125 grams
soft light brown sugar
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1 teaspoon
ground nutmeg
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2 teaspoons
mixed spice (pumpkin pie spice)
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125 grams
butter, cubed
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50 grams
mixed (candied) peel
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60 grams
sultanas
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50 grams
glacé cherries, finely chopped
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1
piece of stem ginger (or crystallized ginger), finely chopped
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15 grams
flaked almonds
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25 grams
walnut pieces
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1 teaspoon
almond essence
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1
egg, beaten
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175 milliliters
milk, plus more for brushing on top
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120 grams
marzipan
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25 grams
icing sugar
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a baking sheet with greaseproof paper.
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Sift the flour, sugar and spices into a mixing bowl, add the butter and rub into fine crumbs. Add the fruit and nuts and stir briefly.
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Make a well in the centre, add the almond essence and the egg and gradually pour in enough milk to make a soft dough.
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Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and roll out to about 4cm (1 1/2 inches) thick. Stamp out using an 8cm (3-inch) round cutter and place on the baking sheet.
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Divide the marzipan into small balls, about 2cm (3/4 inch) in diameter. Push a ball into the base of each scone and then use some of the remaining dough to cover the marzipan so that it is encased in the scone. Gently knead the trimmings together, re-roll and repeat the process.
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Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until risen and springy to the touch. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly. When cool, brush with melted butter and dredge with icing sugar.
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