Showing posts with label scone recipe. Show all posts
Showing posts with label scone recipe. Show all posts

Friday, August 22, 2025

Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars - Rhubarb Strawberry Pie - Rhubarb Apple Crunch - Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce - Rhubarb Lemon Scones - Rhubarb Cinnamon Bread - Rhubarb Bread

 

Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars

Don’t know what it’s been about this summer’s weather, but our rhubarb plants just won’t stop producing.
No problem - there are dozens of great rhubarb recipes.
Really, there’s something for every occasion and taste.

Fresh rhubarb always works best. If you use frozen just thaw and drain well before using in these recipes, including the pie.

If you don’t have buttermilk add one tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar to one cup milk and let it sit for five minutes.


The Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars, as well as the scones and breads, can be kept in a sealed container and stored at room temperature for three days or in the fridge for up to five days.
You can wrap the slices individually, or the loaf as is, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
 For best texture slightly warm slices before serving.


Hints:

About the Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars…
You can replace 1/2 Cups chopped rhubarb with 1/2 Cups chopped strawberries (fresh or frozen). For a bit of crunch add 1/3 Cup finely chopped pecans to the crumble.


About the Rhubarb Strawberry Pie…
The pie filling can also be served as a topping over a pudding or ice cream, or as a filling for crêpes or pancakes. It can also be combined with plain yogurt for a refreshing snack.

You can store the filling in the refrigerator for a day or two before assembling your pie.
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
The cooled filling can be frozen for up to three months.
Upon defrosting, bring it back to room temperature before using it.


About the Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce…
You can add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a bit of crunch.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

The sauce stores well at room temperature for up to three days. Stored in the refrigerator it will need to be warmed in a small saucepan or microwave until pourable.

This cake recipe works with other fruits throughout the year.
In fall use diced apples or pears with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
In summer substitute the same amount of blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries.
Juicier fruits, such as berries, require an extra tablespoon or two of flour to absorb the excess moisture.

The cake, when stored in an airtight container, keeps at room temperature for up to three days. Refrigerate for up to a week, though the texture is best the first few days. Gently reheat leftover cake portions in the microwave for about 20 seconds.


About the Rhubarb Lemon Scones…
To make Rhubarb Orange Scones reduce the chopped rhubarb to 1/2 cup, and replace the heavy cream and lemon extract with milk and orange extract.


About the Rhubarb Bread…
For a sweeter taste, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar over the batter.
 You could also fold in 1/2 cup diced strawberries with the rhubarb.
 For a tarter taste add 1 teaspoon lemon extract to the batter and a lemon glaze after the bread has cooled.

Lemon Glaze
Place in a small bowl
1/2 Cup confectioners’ sugar
1 to 2 teaspoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon lemon extract
Whisk together until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the completely cooled bread.

Or you could dust the top lightly with confectioners’ sugar for a simple finish.


                                                               Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars

Grease an 8 inch square baking pan.

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
3 Cups fresh rhubarb

For the Rhubarb Filling:
Place in a saucepan
the prepared rhubarb
1/2 Cup sugar
1 Tablespoon cornstarch
2 Tablespoons water
Bring to a simmer and cook until the mixture thickens, 5 to 7 minutes.
Set aside and let it cool.

For the Crumble:
Melt
1/2 Cup butter

Place in a bowl
1 Cup flour
1 Cup old-fashioned oats
3/4 Cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Stir together to combine.
Add the melted butter.
Stir in until it’s crumbly and well mixed.
Press half the mixture into the bottom of your pan and set the rest aside.
Bake for 10 minutes and remove from oven.

For the Cheesecake Layer:
Place in a medium mixer bowl
16 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/2 Cup sugar
Beat until well combined.
Add
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
Beat until smooth.

Preheat oven to 350° F

Pour the cheesecake layer over the baked crust.
Spoon the rhubarb filling over the cheesecake.
Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the top.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the topping is golden and the centre is set.
Cool completely, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before slicing.
For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water.

                                                               Rhubarb Strawberry Pie

Have on hand
1 unbaked pie shell

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
3 Cups fresh rhubarb
Chop
2 3/4 Cups strawberries
Place the fruit in a large bowl. Stir to combine.

Place in a medium bowl
1/3 Cup sugar
1/3 Cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 Cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
Whisk together, pour over the fruit and gently toss to coat.
Drizzle over the mixture
2 Tablespoons lemon juice
Stir to combine well.
Allow the filling to sit for 15 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 400° F

Pour the filling into the pie shell and smooth the top.
Dot with
1 Tablespoon salted butter, cut into 1/4 inch pieces.

Bake on the centre oven rack for 30 minutes.

While the pie is baking, make the topping:
Place in a medium bowl
3/4 Cup flour
1/2 Cup sugar
1/2 Cup sweetened flaked coconut
1/4 Cup ground almonds
1/4 teaspoon salt
Stir to combine.
Add
5 tablespoons cold, unsalted butter
Rub the ingredients between your fingers until the texture is uniform.

After the pie has baked for 30 minutes, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the topping over the fruit.
Bake the pie for 25 to 35 minutes more, until the topping is golden brown.
Transfer the pie to a rack and cool at least 1 hour.
Serve slightly warm or at room temperature.


                                                               Rhubarb Apple Crunch

Lightly grease and flour a 9 inch square baking pan.

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2 Cups fresh rhubarb

Thinly slice
2 Cups apples

Place in a medium saucepan
3/4 Cup sugar
3/4 Cup water
2 Tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla
Cook, stirring constantly, until thick.
Remove from heat and set aside.

Melt
1/2 Cup butter or margarine

Preheat oven to 350° F

Place in a large bowl
1 Cup flour
3/4 Cup old-fashioned oats
1 Cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon allspice
the melted butter or margarine
Mix together and press half of the mixture into the bottom of prepared pan.
Arrange the rhubarb and apples evenly on top.
Pour the sugar sauce over the rhubarb and apples.
Sprinkle the remaining oatmeal mixture over the sauced fruit.
Bake for 1 hour.
Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.


                                                               Rhubarb Cake with Butter Sauce

Grease and flour a 9 x 13 inch baking pan.

For the Cake:
Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2 Cups fresh rhubarb

Place in a medium bowl
2 Cups flour
1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
Whisk together and set aside.

Place in a large mixer bowl
1 Cup sugar
1/2 Cup unsalted butter, softened
Cream together until light and fluffy.
Add, one at a time
2 large eggs
Beat well after each addition.
Stir in
1 teaspoon vanilla

Preheat oven to 350° F

Making 3 dry and 2 liquid additions add the flour mixture alternately with
1 Cup buttermilk
Mix until just combined. Avoid over mixing. The cake batter will seem thick.
Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes.

While the cake is cooling, make the Butter Sauce
Place in a small saucepan
1/2 Cup unsalted butter
Melt over medium heat.
Add
1/2 to 3/4 Cup brown sugar, packed
Pinch of salt
Stir until dissolved.
Slowly whisk in
1/4 Cup heavy cream (or half-and-half, or whole milk)
Bring to a simmer and cook for 3 minutes, until thickened slightly.
Remove from heat and stir in
1 teaspoon vanilla

Cut the cake into squares.
Pour warm butter sauce generously over each piece before serving.


                                                               Rhubarb Lemon Scones

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1 Cup fresh rhubarb

Place in a large bowl
2 Cups flour
1/4 Cup sugar
1 Tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Add
1/2 Cup cold butter
Cut it into the dry ingredients until the mixture is crumbly.
Gently stir in the chopped rhubarb.

Place in a small bowl
1/2 Cup heavy cream
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon lemon extract
Whisk together and pour into dry ingredients.
Gently stir until just combined. Do not over mix.

Preheat oven to 400° F

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape into a 1 inch thick circle.
Cut into 8 wedges and place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
Brush tops with cream and sprinkle with coarse sugar. (optional)
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until golden brown.
Remove and let cool slightly before serving.


                                                               Rhubarb Cinnamon Bread

Lightly grease and flour a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan.

For the Cinnamon Swirl:
Place in a small bowl
2 Tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Stir to combine and set aside.

For the Bread:
Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1 1/2 Cups fresh rhubarb

Place in a medium bowl
1 1/2 Cups flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Stir to combine and set aside.

Melt
1/2 Cup unsalted butter

Place in a large mixing bowl
1 Cup sugar
the melted butter
Stir until well blended.
Beat in, one at a time
2 large eggs
Add
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 Cup plain yogurt (or sour cream)
Beat until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. 
Do not over mix.
Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb until evenly distributed.

Preheat oven to 350° F

Pour half of the batter into the loaf pan and smooth it out.
Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
Add the remaining batter on top and smooth its surface.

Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
If the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover the loaf with foil.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Remove the bread from pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional Glaze:
Place in a small bowl
1/2 Cup confectioners’ sugar
1 to 2 teaspoon milk or lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Whisk together until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the completely cooled bread.


                                                               Rhubarb Bread

Lightly grease and flour a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan.

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2 Cups fresh rhubarb
Place in a large mixing bowl and add
1 1/2 Cups sugar
Let sit for 15 minutes.

While the rhubarb is sitting, place in a medium bowl
2 1/2 Cups flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
Stir to combine and set aside.

Preheat oven to 350° F

After the rhubarb has sat for 15 minutes add to it
1/2 Cup vegetable oil
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 Cup buttermilk
Mix well until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not over mix.
Fold in
1/2 Cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Remove the bread from pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve with butter or cream cheese, or toasted with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.

Monday, July 7, 2025

Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze, Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake, Rhubarb Crisp, Rhubarb Scones, Rhubarb Buckle, Rhubarb Cloud Pie, Rhubarb Fool and Rhubarb Grunt

 

Boycotting of American products is still going strong in Canada.
There’s a public group on FaceBook called ‘Made in Canada - Canadian Products’ that has regular updates on what to buy and what to avoid.
It currently has 1,388,351 members and the number is steadily growing.
It also has information on Canadian businesses, Canadian manufacturers of various products, as well as Canadian drink and food producers.
Why not give the group a visit?


A week ago I posted a few rhubarb recipes.
https://imturning60help.blogspot.com/2025/06/sour-cream-rhubarb-coffee-cake-sour.html

I really didn’t even scratch the surface of how you can prepare rhubarb.
Here are a few more old favourite recipes.
We’re still having a hot summer, so I included a couple of recipes that don’t need the oven.

These recipes work best with fresh rhubarb.
If you’re new at using fresh rhubarb, don’t panic.
About 2 to 3 stalks will give you 1 1/2 cups diced rhubarb.
A little more or less will be just fine.

Fresh rhubarb can be chopped and refrigerated or frozen for future recipes.
Frozen rhubarb gets soft and watery.
If you use frozen rhubarb just thaw and drain it thoroughly before using it to prevent the excess moisture from affecting the recipe.

The ‘Buy Canadian / Avoid American’ lists of companies is here
https://imturning60help.blogspot.com/2025/02/buy-canadian.html


Hints:

Most of these recipes can be served warm, topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

About the Rhubarb Crisp…
It can be kept at room temperature for a short time. For longer storage, refrigerate.

To make Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp use 3 cups strawberries and 3 cups rhubarb and increase the flour in the filling to 1/3 cup.


About the Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze…
You can replace the sour cream with buttermilk or Greek yogurt.
For added texture fold in chopped walnuts or pecans.
Don’t have rhubarb? Prepare with chopped strawberries or cranberries.

At room temperature, store the cooled loaf in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. It will stay good for up to two days.
You can refrigerate the loaf in a sealed container for up to five days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for best flavour.

To freeze, wrap individual slices, or the entire loaf, in plastic wrap and then wrap in foil. Place it in a freezer-safe bag to store for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature.


About the Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake…
You could also use granulated sugar with the rhubarb.


About the Rhubarb Buckle…
If you want a sweeter buckle you can add more sugar to the rhubarb.
For a fruitier buckle add chopped strawberries.


About the Rhubarb Cloud Pie…
You can add a touch of cinnamon to the rhubarb filling for extra flavour.
Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers before serving.


About the Rhubarb Fool…
If you have extra cooked rhubarb you can use some to top the servings.
You could also top with berries, whipped cream or crushed cookies.


                                                               Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze

Grease and flour a 9 × 5 inch loaf pan.

Dice
1 1/2 Cups fresh rhubarb

Combine in a medium bowl
1 1/2 Cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

Preheat oven to 350° F

Place in a large mixer bowl
1/2 Cup butter, softened
1 Cup sugar
Cream together until light and fluffy.
Beat in, one at a time
2 large eggs
Add
1/4 Cup lemon juice
1 Tablespoon lemon zest or 1 teaspoon lemon extract
Making 3 dry and 2 liquid additions, add the flour mixture alternately with
1/2 Cup sour cream or yogurt
Stir until just combined, then gently fold in the diced rhubarb.
Pour the batter into the loaf pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove from pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Be sure it is at room temperature. If it’s too warm the glaze will just be absorbed.
 
To make the glaze, place in a small bowl
1/2 Cup confectioners’ sugar
1 to 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
Whisk together until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf.
Slice and serve.


                                                               Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake

Generously grease an 9 inch round cake pan.

Cut into 1 inch pieces
1 1/2 Cups fresh rhubarb

Arrange the rhubarb evenly in the prepared pan.
Sprinkle over the rhubarb
1/2 Cup brown sugar
Dot with
2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces

Place in a medium bowl
1 1/2 Cups flour
1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Whisk together.

Place in a measuring cup
1/2 Cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla

Preheat oven to 350° F

Place in a large mixer bowl
1/2 Cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 Cup sugar
Cream until light and fluffy.
Add one at a time
2 large eggs
Beat well.
Making 3 dry and 2 liquid additions, add the flour mixture alternately with the milk mixture.
Pour the batter over the rhubarb in the pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.
Let cool for 10 minutes, then invert onto a plate.
Serve warm or chilled.


                                                               Rhubarb Crisp

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
6 Cups fresh rhubarb
Place in a 2 quart baking dish.

Combine in a medium bowl
2/3 Cup sugar, either granulated or brown
3 Tablespoons flour
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Sprinkle over fruit in baking dish.

Preheat oven to 375° F

Combine in the same medium bowl
3/4 Cup rolled oats
3/4 Cup brown sugar, packed
1/3 Cup flour
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/3 Cup butter, softened
1/3 Cup coconut shredded, optional
Combine with a fork or pastry cutter.
Sprinkle over the rhubarb in the baking dish.
Bake for 35 minutes, or until rhubarb is tender and topping is golden.
Cool 10 minutes before serving.


                                                               Rhubarb Scones

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Finely chop
1 Cup fresh rhubarb

Place in a small bowl
1/2 Cup sour cream or plain yogurt
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla

Preheat oven to 400° F

Place in a large bowl
2 Cups flour
1/3 Cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
Whisk together, then add
1/2 Cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add the liquid ingredients, and stir just until combined.
Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb. The dough will be slightly sticky.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
Shape into a circle about 3/4 inch thick. Cut into 8 wedges.
Transfer the wedges to the lined baking sheet.
Brush the tops with milk or cream and sprinkle sugar over tops, if desired.
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
Enjoy warm, plain or with a pat of butter.


                                                               Rhubarb Buckle

Lightly grease an 9 inch square baking pan.

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2 Cups fresh rhubarb
Place in a medium bowl and add
1/4 Cup sugar
Toss the rhubarb and sugar and set aside.

For the Crumb Topping
Place in a small bowl
1/2 Cup sugar
1/3 Cup flour
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Whisk together, then add
1/4 Cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
Cut butter in using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles pea-sized coarse crumbs and set aside.

Place in a medium bowl
2 Cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Whisk together and set aside.

Preheat oven to 350° F

Place in a large mixing bowl
1/2 Cup unsalted butter, softened
1 Cup sugar
Cream together until light and fluffy.
Add
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
Beat well.
Making 3 dry and 2 liquid additions, add the flour mixture alternately with
1/2 Cup milk
Gently fold in the sugared rhubarb.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter.
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
Allow to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes.
Slice into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.


                                                               Rhubarb Cloud Pie

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2 Cups fresh rhubarb

Place in a medium bowl
1 1/2 Cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 Cup sugar
1/2 Cup unsalted butter, melted
Stir to combine well, then pour into a 9 inch pie pan.
Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the pan.
Put the pan in the refrigerator.

Place in a medium saucepan
the chopped rhubarb
1/2 Cup sugar
2 Tablespoons water
1 Tablespoon lemon juice
Stirring occasionally, cook over medium heat until the rhubarb is soft and the mixture has thickened, about 10 to 12 minutes.
Remove saucepan from heat and allow rhubarb to cool completely.

Place in a large mixing bowl
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 Cup confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
Beat until smooth.
Gently fold in until fully combined
1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping

Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust.
Spoon the cooled rhubarb filling evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Top with the remaining cream cheese mixture and spread gently to cover.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set. Serve chilled.


                                                               Rhubarb Fool

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2 Cups fresh rhubarb
Place in a medium saucepan and add
1/2 Cup sugar (adjust to taste)
Stirring occasionally, cook over medium heat until rhubarb softens, about 15 minutes.
Stir in
1 teaspoon vanilla extract or lemon zest
Set aside and let cool completely.

Place in a medium mixing bowl
1 Cup heavy cream
1 to 2 Tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
Beat until soft peaks form.
Gently fold the cooled rhubarb compote into the whipped cream.
Spoon into glasses or bowls.
Chill for at least 30 minutes, and serve cold.


                                                               Rhubarb Grunt

Cut into 1/2 inch pieces
3 Cups fresh rhubarb
Place pieces in a dutch oven and add
1/2 Cup sugar
1/4 Cup water
Simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes.

While the rhubarb is simmering, place in a medium bowl
1 Cup flour
1 Tablespoon sugar
1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Whisk together to combine.

Place in a measuring cup
1/3 Cup milk
2 Tablespoons oil or 2 Tablespoons butter, melted
Pour over flour mixture and stir together just enough to combine.
Drop dumpling dough by spoonfuls onto fruit.
Cover tightly and simmer for 20 minutes.
Serve warm with cream.

Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Anna Sultana’s Pumpkin Scones, Pumpkin Recipe Links and the Full Flower Moon


A week ago, in honour of the royal wedding of Prince Harry and his bride, Meghan, I posted the recipes for No knead Orange Scones and Clotted Cream.


We’re so glad the weather was good, the wedding went smoothly and everyone had a brilliant time.
Ah… royalty and marriages. What’s not to love?


Another thing to love is another pumpkin recipe.
Pumpkin is a staple ingredient in Maltese cooking, so of course it found it’s way into a scone recipe.
Just think - 
the flour is a starch
the pumpkin is a fruit 
the egg is a protein
the cream is a dairy

This recipe has something from each of the four major food groups!

Yes, a pumpkin is a fruit.
It has seeds, just like a tomato.
Yes, a tomato is a fruit, too.
It’s so good to learn something new every day!


Are you a pumpkin lover, too? Here are a few more old favourites:


Desserts






Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins - Margaret Ullrich

Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars - Margaret Ullrich

Soups


Anna Sultana's Pumpkin Soup, Maltese Style, 
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds and Pumpkin Pie Spice


Anna Sultana's Kawlata - Vegetable Soup with Meat, Maltese Style

Anna Sultana's Kawlata #2 - Vegetable Soup with Meat, Maltese Style


Anna Sultana's Minestra tal-Haxix #2 - Vegetable Soup, Maltese Style

Anna Sultana's Soppa tal Kirxa - Tripe Soup, Maltese Style


Hints:

If you don’t want to serve these scones with butter or clotted cream, you can also drizzle a simple glaze over the scones.

                                                Glaze 

Combine in a small bowl
!/4 Cup confectioners’ sugar
3 Tablespoons lemon juice or water (more or less)
Drizzle over the scones.

Of course, they are also good plain.


                           Pumpkin Scones
                       
Grease a large cookie pan         
Preheat oven to 425º F        

Makes 8 scones

In a large mixer bowl mix together
2 1/2 Cups flour
1/4 Cup brown sugar
1 Tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon cloves

Make a well in the centre and add
2 Tablespoons butter, melted 
1 Egg, slightly beaten
1 Cup canned pumpkin
Mix well.
Add
1/8 Cup milk
Stir enough to combine.
Add more milk (about 1/8 Cup milk) to make a soft, but not sticky, dough.
Turn out dough on a floured surface and knead gently.
Pat dough into an oblong, about 1 inch thick.
With a floured knife cut into 8 rectangles.
Place scones on prepared sheet.
Bake 20 minutes
Serve warm with butter or clotted cream (or see hints)


About the sky, thanks to the folks at The Farmers' Almanac…

May 29 - Full Flower Moon, 10:29 a.m. The visible Moon is fully illuminated by direct sunlight. Though the Moon is only technically in this phase for a few seconds, it is considered “full” for the entire day of the event, and appears full for three days. May’s full Moon is called the Full Flower Moon.

Wednesday, May 16, 2018

Anna Sultana’s No knead Orange Scones and Clotted Cream

Goodness, time just flies!
Has it really been about seven years since we baked a batch of Ma's Orange Cranberry Scones to enjoy while we watched Prince William and Kate Middleton get married?
Now we’ll be able to see his brother, Prince Harry, and his lovely fiancé stroll down the aisle.
I can’t wait to see what Meghan will wear!

During William and Kate’s wedding one of the TV announcers mentioned how folks in Merry Old England were sitting down to a brekkie of tea and scones, too.

In keeping with the situation, I plan to bake scones to serve with Twinings English Breakfast tea.
Tradition is important, after all.

Scones are very easy to make.
As it is a British recipe, we Maltese make them, too, using an assortment of fruits and juices, as well as milk and cream.
Want to serve a variety? Try one or two or all of these recipes:

All would be delicious with a cup of tea… or a Cosmopolitan or two. 


To do it up in a right proper, veddy British way, the scones should be served with clotted cream, which is also called Devonshire or Cornish cream.
Clotted cream has a nutty, cooked milk flavour and as much fat as butter.
It is a thick cream made by heating cow's milk and then letting it cool slowly so that the cream rises to the surface and forms "clots”. 

The Clotted Cream will keep for about a week in your fridge and can be added to mashed potatoes, risotto or scrambled eggs.
It is also delicious with berries, fruit, a slice of pie, or as a topping on any dessert you’re serving.
Well, just about any dessert... probably not on an iced cake.


Hints:

About the clotted cream…
You might be able to find clotted cream in the dairy section of your supermarket.
Most likely, you won’t find it in a North American store.
Not too worry. It’s not hard to make.

If you don’t have a double boiler place a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of water.
After you scrape off the thicker part of the clotted cream, you’ll be left with cream that is thinner than heavy cream.
Don't toss it. It can be added to beverages or dishes, as you would half and half.

In a rush? Have mascarpone? You’re in luck. You can use mascarpone to make fake Clotted Cream:
Place in a large bowl
4 ounces mascarpone
1 Cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla 
1 or 2 Tablespoons sugar
Zest of lemon or lime (optional)

Beat until the mixture looks like softly whipped cream.  
Use right away or cover and refrigerate the cream until serving time.
Makes about 1 1/2 cups

Not sure if you'll have any use for a tub of mascarpone?
It is a soft unripened cheese that has the texture of sour cream.
Its mild flavour is great with fresh fruit and it is an ingredient in Tiramisu.
You've probably enjoyed it already.

                        
                           No knead Orange Scones
                       
grease a large cookie pan         
preheat oven to 375º        
bake 30 minutes

Makes 15 scones

In a measuring cup beat together
1 Cup orange juice
1 Egg
Add
1 Cup raisins
Set aside

In a large mixer bowl mix together
3 Cups flour
1/2 Cup sugar
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 teaspoon salt

Cut in 
1/2 Cup margarine

Add
orange juice / egg / raisins mixture
Stir just enough to combine well
Drop on prepared sheet
Bake 30 minutes
Serve warm with butter or clotted cream


                           Clotted Cream

Yield: about 1 cup clotted cream

Place in a double boiler
4 Cups heavy cream

Heat over medium heat to bring the cream to 175º F, stirring occasionally so that the cream will heat evenly. 
Once you reach 175º F, bring up the temperature to 200º and allow the cream to cook about 45 minutes to an hour. The cream should get a cracked skin. 
Remove the top of your double boiler or bowl and place the container of cooked cream in a pan of ice water to cool quickly. 
Cover the cream with plastic wrap and place the container in the refrigerator.
Let it sit overnight. 
Carefully skim the clotted cream off with a shallow spoon and layer it into a bowl.
Serve it as you would serve butter.

Thursday, August 3, 2017

Anna Sultana’s Scones with Clotted Cream, and the Sturgeon Moon with the Perseids Meteor Shower


Summer is just flying by!
It seems like it was March just last week.
Now, here we are, August, with just a month left to enjoy summer before it's back to school.

The start of August is a fun time in Winnipeg.
For two weeks we celebrate Folklorama, where we get a chance to travel the world, yet are able to return to our own beds every night.
No worries if the mattress is too hard or soft.
I mean, what senior could ask for more.


The United Kingdom Pavilion is one of my favourites.
There you can see cultural displays and shows featuring the art and talents from England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
They also have fun with theme nights - James Bond and Harry Potter to name a few.
While enjoying the show one can dine on traditional food or sample the treats at a traditional English Tea Room.
Ah...  a proper tea and scones!


A few weeks ago I posted the recipe for Ma’s Cream Scones.
Perfect for when you have a leftover cup or two of heavy cream.
But leftover cream can also be used to make clotted cream.

Clotted cream was mentioned in The Shepheardes Calendar, a poem written by Edmund Spenser in 1579:
Ne would she scorn the simple shepherd swain,
For she would call him often heam,
And give him curds and clouted cream.

Clotted cream, also called Devonshire or Cornish cream, is a thick cream made by heating cow's milk and then letting it cool slowly so that the cream rises to the surface and forms "clots”. 
It has a nutty, cooked milk flavour and about the same amount of fat as butter.
Clotted cream can be added to mashed potatoes, risotto or scrambled eggs.
It is also delicious with berries, fruit, a slice of pie, or as a topping on any dessert you’re serving.
Well, just about any dessert... probably not on an iced cake.

Clotted cream is similar to kaymak, a delicacy that is made throughout the Middle East, southeast Europe, Iran, Afghanistan, India, and Turkey.
Don't know if the recipe got around or if everyone knew it was just a great way to use up leftover heavy cream.


In a rush? Have mascarpone? You’re in luck.
You can also use mascarpone to make fake Clotted Cream.

Place in a large bowl
4 ounces mascarpone
1 Cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla 
1 or 2 Tablespoons sugar
Zest of lemon or lime (optional)

Beat until the mixture looks like softly whipped cream.  
Use right away or cover and refrigerate the cream until serving time.
Makes about 1 1/2 cups

Not sure if you'll have any use for a tub of mascarpone?
It is a soft unripened cheese that has the texture of sour cream.
Its mild flavour is great with fresh fruit and it is an ingredient in Tiramisu.
You've probably enjoyed it already.


Back to that English Tea...
Want to serve a variety of scones? Try these recipes:


Hints:

If you don’t have a double boiler place a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of water.

After you scrape off the thicker part of the clotted cream, you’ll be left with cream that is thinner than heavy cream.
Don't toss it. It can be added to beverages or dishes, as you would half and half.

The Clotted Cream will keep for about a week in your fridge.

Have butter with salt? Fine, use it for the scones, just don’t add the 1/4 teaspoon salt.


                                                   Clotted Cream

Yield: about 1 cup clotted cream

Place in a double boiler
4 Cups heavy cream

Heat over medium heat to bring the cream to 175º F, stirring occasionally so that the cream will heat evenly. 
Once you reach 175º F, bring up the temperature to 200º and allow the cream to cook about 45 minutes to an hour. The cream should get a cracked skin. 
Remove the top of your double boiler or bowl and place the container of cooked cream in a pan of ice water to cool quickly. 
Cover the cream with plastic wrap and place the container in the refrigerator.
Let it sit overnight. 
Carefully skim the clotted cream off with a shallow spoon and layer it into a bowl.
Serve it as you would serve butter.


                                                   Scones

Yield: about 12 scones                       
Grease a large cookie pan.             

In a measuring cup beat together
5 Tablespoons milk
1 large egg
Set aside

In a custard cup or small bowl beat
1 large egg
Set aside

In a large mixer bowl, mix together
2 Cups flour
1 Tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Cut in 
4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, diced
Add
the milk/egg mixture
Mix to form a soft dough.

Preheat oven to 425º F  

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead until the dough comes together. 
Roll out the dough to an inch thick.
Cut into rounds with a biscuit cutter or a drinking glass.
Place the scones on the prepared cookie pan. 
Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
Bake 8 minutes or until golden.

Serve warm with 
the clotted cream
sliced strawberries or jam (optional)

Don’t forget a pot of hot tea for the total experience!


About the sky next week, thanks to the folks at The Farmers' Almanac

August 7 –  August’s full Sturgeon Moon at 2:11 p.m. Passing overhead at around 10 p.m. local daylight time this week are four small, faint constellations spread out near and within the Summer Triangle.  The Triangle itself is easy enough to find, being composed of three of the brightest stars in the sky (Vega, Altair and Deneb).

August 8 – Because the Moon is now in its waning gibbous phase, it rises in the east later and continues to rise later and later each evening until you can spot the daytime Moon over your western horizon after sunrise in the next few mornings.

August 11-13 – The Perseids Meteor Shower. August is often regarded as “meteor month” with the appearance of one of the best displays of the year. Viewing may be hindered by the bright glow of the waning gibbous Moon but still worth a look. 
Best time to watch: After midnight and before dawn. These showers are named for the constellation Perseus but are bits and pieces of the Comet Swift-Tuttle which visited the inner part of the Solar System in 1992. These meteors, no bigger than grains of sand or pebbles with the consistency of cigar ash, enter the Earth’s atmosphere about 80 miles above its surface.
What you can expect: 50-100 meteors per hour

Friday, June 16, 2017

Anna Sultana’s Cream Scones


Strawberries and cream go together so well.
But sometimes one can have too much of a good thing, as in a leftover cup or two of heavy cream.
If you’ve had your fill of berries - or would like something to serve with a cup of tea - why not make a batch or two of cream scones?


This is a quick and easy recipe that will make light and airy scones.
The heavy cream replaces the butter and milk.
Don’t get too excited about the recipe not needing butter - the calories are about the same.


Hints:

This recipe calls for currants, but it will work with other chopped dried fruit, such as dried blueberries.
Blueberries go well with lemon zest.
Dried cranberries and orange zest make a good combination.

If you have extra zest you can combine it with 2 Tablespoons sugar to sprinkle on top.
If you don’t have zest, you can add 1 teaspoon lemon or orange extract when you add the vanilla.
Don’t have either extract? Use an extra teaspoon of vanilla.

The clotted cream is in the dairy section of most supermarkets.

To reheat scones, wrap loosely in foil and heat at 300 F for 10 minutes.

Don’t have leftover cream? Try these scone recipes:


                        Cream Scones

Makes 12 scones 
                       
grease and lightly flour a large cookie pan         
preheat oven to 450º F  


In a large bowl, mix together
1 2/3 Cups flour
3 to 4 Tablespoons sugar 
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Zest of one orange or lemon

Stir in to coat
1/2 Cup currants

Make a well in the centre of the flour mixture.
Add
1 Cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla 
Stir lightly with a fork.
Dip your hands in flour and knead about 6 times.
Cut the dough into 2 equal pieces and place them on the prepared cookie pan.
Dip your hands in flour and shape each piece into a circle, gently patting to flatten into 2 5-inch rounds.

Dipping a knife in flour before each cut, cut each round into 6 wedges. 
Brush the tops with a little milk, cream or melted butter.
Sprinkle each round with sugar.

Bake for 15 minutes, until golden brown.
Serve warm with butter or clotted cream.  

Monday, February 9, 2015

Anna Sultana’s Lemon Cranberry Scones

We’ve been having cloudy skies recently.
Whenever it’s cloudy I crave lemon.
Especially in winter.

Along with craving lemon, I like extra servings of carbs during winter.
A few years ago I posted the recipe for Ma's Orange Cranberry Scones.

A lemon recipe I missed posting was Ma’s Lemon Cranberry Scones.
Time to fix that.


Cranberries are too nutritious to just be served as a side dish during the holidays.
Raw cranberries have vitamin C, fibre and manganese.
About the holidays…
After the big day fresh cranberries are usually on sale.
When you get home you can put them in a bag and freeze them.
They will keep up to nine months and can be used in recipes without thawing.

Raw cranberries are said to help the cardiovascular and immune systems.
Some say they also can help prevent urinary tract infections.
Others say they don’t have that much of an effect.
But they can’t hurt and they do have nutrients.


Hints:

Chill your ingredients and equipment so that your scones will be light and fluffy.
If you don’t have cranberries, blueberries or raisins will also work.

Brushing the tops of the scones with the lemon glaze before baking will give them a crisp golden top.

If you don’t want the lemon glaze, you can ice the scones.
Combine in a small bowl
!/4 Cup confectioners’ sugar
3 Tablespoons lemon juice or water (more or less)
Drizzle over the scones.

If you don't want either the glaze or the icing, no problem.


                           Lemon Cranberry Scones
                       
grease a large cookie pan         
preheat oven to 375º F      
bake 20 minutes
Yield: 12 Scones

In a measuring cup beat together
2 Tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
1 Tablespoon lemon juice
Set aside.  It will be used for the glaze just before baking.

In a large bowl, mix together
3 Cups flour
1 Cup sugar
1 Tablespoon baking powder
1 Tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon salt

Cut in 
3/4 Cup unsalted butter, diced

Add
1/2 Cup chilled half and half cream
1 Cup cranberries (fresh, frozen or dried)
1/2 Cup coarsely chopped pecans (optional)
Toss with a fork until the dough comes together.
You can add more cream if the dough is dry.

Gather the dough into a ball and divide in half.
Knead one piece about 6 times and place it on the cookie pan.
Shape into a circle and flatten. 
Cut into 6 wedges.
Repeat with the second had of the dough.

Brush the tops with the lemon glaze.
Sprinkle with 
1/4 Cup dark brown sugar (optional)

Bake 20 minutes, until golden brown and a tester comes out clean.
Serve warm with butter, jam and tea
or clotted cream (in the dairy section of most supermarkets)