Sugar Plum Scones

Name: Sugar Plum Scones
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 1 dozen.
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 3 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup cold butter; 1 large egg; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup pitted dried plums, chopped; 1 tablespoon grated orange zest; TOPPING:; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon 2% milk; 2 tablespoons coarse sugar

Dried plums and a sprinkling of coarse sugar make these treats delightfully Christmasy. Spread them with butter, cream cheese or preserves.—Julie McQuiston, Bradenton, Florida

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold butter
1 large egg
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup pitted dried plums, chopped
1 tablespoon grated orange zest
TOPPING:
1 large egg
1 tablespoon 2% milk
2 tablespoons coarse sugar

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Whisk egg and buttermilk; stir into crumb mixture just until moistened. Stir in plums and orange zest. Turn onto a floured surface; knead 10 times.
Divide dough in half; pat each into a 7-in. circle. Cut each into six wedges. Separate wedges and place on a greased baking sheet. Combine egg and milk; brush over scones. Sprinkle with coarse sugar. Bake at 375° for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.