Name: High Altitude Chocolate Walnut Scones Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (fluffed, spooned and leveled); 1/4 cup unsweetened Dutch processed cocoa powder; 4 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp coarse Kosher salt (if using table salt, use half the amount); 2/3 cup light brown sugar (lightly packed); 10 tbsp cold unsalted butter (cut into chunks or thin slices); 3/4 cup cold whole milk; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional); 3/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/2 – 2 tbsp milk or cream

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 75 reviews

If you’ve ever wondered how to create the perfect bakery-style treat at home that caters perfectly to high altitudes, look no further! This High Altitude Chocolate Walnut Scones Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Rich cocoa and sweet chunks of semi-sweet chocolate combine with crunchy walnuts, all wrapped in a tender, buttery dough that rises just right in higher elevations. Whether you’re new to scones or a seasoned baker, this recipe feels like a warm hug in pastry form, bringing both comfort and a touch of indulgence to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface filled with three main layers of ingredients: a base of fine, grayish cocoa powder that covers most of the bowl’s bottom and sides, placed in three sections, a cluster of medium-sized chopped light brown walnuts sits in the center, next to a pile of shiny dark brown chocolate chips to the right, creating a clear separation between the chunky nuts and smooth chips; the textures contrast with the soft powder and rough nut pieces. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe. Each component is simple yet essential, contributing to the scones’ fudgy richness, flaky texture, and the delightful crunch that walnut pieces bring.

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Make sure to fluff, spoon, and level for accurate measurement to keep your scones light.
1/4 cup unsweetened Dutch processed cocoa powder: This brings a deep, smooth chocolate flavor without bitterness.
4 tsp baking powder: The lift that ensures your scones rise beautifully at high elevations.
1/4 tsp coarse Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors. Use half if substituting table salt.
2/3 cup light brown sugar: Lightly packed to add subtle molasses notes and moisture.
10 tbsp cold unsalted butter: Cut into small chunks or slices, cold butter creates flaky layers when baked.
3/4 cup cold whole milk: The cold temperature helps keeps the butter from melting too soon, aiding texture.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds subtle fragrant sweetness to round out the chocolate.
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: For bursts of melty, rich chocolate in every bite.
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): Adds a lovely crunch and nutty depth to the scones.
3/4 cup powdered sugar: For the icing, providing a smooth, sweet glaze.
1 tsp vanilla extract: In the icing to echo the dough’s warm flavors.
1 1/2 – 2 tbsp milk or cream: To achieve the perfect icing consistency.

How to Make High Altitude Chocolate Walnut Scones Recipe

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

Start by combining the flour, Dutch processed cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and brown sugar in a large bowl. This blend lays the flavorful and structural foundation for your scones, so give it a good stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 2: Cut in the Butter

Add your cold, chunked butter to the dry mix. Using a pastry cutter, cut the butter into the flour blend until the mixture turns crumbly, and the butter pieces resemble peas. This step is crucial for that tender, flaky texture that makes scones irresistible.

Step 3: Incorporate Chocolate Chips and Walnuts

Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped walnuts. These ingredients add both gooey richness and satisfying crunch that will make each bite exciting.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients and Form Dough

Pour in the cold whole milk and vanilla extract, then gently stir until a shaggy dough forms. Be careful not to overmix here — the dough should come together but remain slightly rough and rustic.

Step 5: Shape and Chill the Dough

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, scrape the dough onto it, and use lightly floured hands to form a thick disk about 7 to 8 inches wide. If it’s sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour. Pop the pan in the freezer for 10 minutes while preheating your oven. This chilling helps the scones hold their shape during baking.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

Place an oven rack in the center and preheat to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature provides the perfect balance for rising without overbrowning.

Step 7: Score the Dough

Use a floured bench scraper or sharp knife to cut the dough into 8 equal wedges, but don’t separate them just yet. This scoring allows even baking and easier portioning after they’re done.

Step 8: Bake the Scones

Bake for 30 minutes, but around 20 minutes in, check if the scones are spreading too much. If so, gently push them back together to keep that classic scone shape. After baking, cut again along the scores and separate the wedges. If the centers are still slightly doughy, give them 2 to 5 more minutes, but watch carefully to avoid drying out.

Step 9: Make the Icing and Decorate

While the scones bake, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk or cream until smooth. Drizzle this icing over warm scones and quickly top with a few extra chocolate chips and walnuts before it sets. This final touch adds sweetness and visual appeal.

Step 10: Enjoy!

Serve your High Altitude Chocolate Walnut Scones warm or at room temperature. Either way, they’re a luxurious treat that’s sure to brighten any breakfast or coffee break.

How to Serve High Altitude Chocolate Walnut Scones Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a dark chocolate brownie piece on a white plate placed on a wooden surface. The brownie is moist and dense with a rough texture, covered with a thin layer of white glaze that drips slightly down the sides. On top of the brownie, there are several dark chocolate chips and small pieces of chopped walnuts scattered around. In the background, blurred brownies with similar toppings can be seen. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of extra chopped walnuts or a few delicate chocolate shavings right before serving can elevate the look and taste. Fresh berries on the side add a juicy contrast, while a light dusting of powdered sugar can give a charming, snowy appearance.

Side Dishes

These scones pair beautifully with a dollop of clotted cream or whipped butter. For a breakfast or brunch spread, include fresh fruit salad, creamy yogurt, or even a smooth cup of latte or chai tea to round out the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy gathering, lay the scones on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of clotted cream, honey, and jam. Alternatively, stack them in a tiered cake stand to create a stunning display that’s as inviting as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover scones tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. This will preserve their moist crumb and rich chocolate flavor.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these scones later, they freeze beautifully. Wrap each scone individually, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months without losing quality.

Reheating

To bring frozen or leftover scones back to life, warm them in a 300-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 10 minutes. This method revives their flaky texture and melty chocolate chips without drying them out. You can also microwave for a brief 20 seconds if in a hurry, but be cautious not to overdo it.

FAQs

Can I substitute walnuts for another nut?

Absolutely! Pecans or macadamia nuts work wonderfully as alternatives. They provide a similar crunch and flavor profile while adding a new twist to the scones.

Do I need to use Dutch processed cocoa powder?

While Dutch processed cocoa offers a smoother, less acidic chocolate flavor, you can use natural cocoa powder in a pinch. Just be aware it may alter the scones’ color and flavor slightly.

How does this recipe work at high altitudes?

This High Altitude Chocolate Walnut Scones Recipe adjusts leavening and moisture to ensure your scones rise perfectly without collapsing or drying out, a common challenge in high-elevation baking.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter for a high-quality vegan butter and replace whole milk with almond or oat milk. The texture might vary slightly but will still be delicious.

Is it okay to omit the icing?

Totally! The scones are rich and flavorful on their own. The icing is a lovely sweet finish, but skipping it won’t compromise the overall experience.

Final Thoughts

This High Altitude Chocolate Walnut Scones Recipe is a delightful way to treat yourself and your loved ones, especially when you need something comforting and special. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be rewarded with scones that are decadently chocolatey, satisfyingly crunchy, and perfectly tender. I promise once you try these, they’ll become a go-to whenever you want a little homemade magic.