Cherry Almond Scones

Wet Ingredients: Add the applesauce, soy milk, sugar, vinegar, vanilla, and almond extract to a medium bowl or measuring glass; stir until evenly combined and the sugar has dissolved.

Dry Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon (if using), and salt together. Add the frozen butter to the flour and use a pastry cutter or two forks to combine the two together, until incorporated with pea-sized crumbles. Form a well in the center of the bowl, then add the wet ingredients and use a spatula to gently mix until just-combined. Add the dried cherries and almonds to the bowl and fold into the dough until evenly incorporated.

Shape the Scones: Lightly dust a cutting board or countertop with flour and place the scone dough on top of it. Sprinkle the top of the dough with a little more flour, then use your hands to press the dough into a large circle, about 1″ thick. Use a bench scraper or large knife to cut the circle into 8 equal triangles. Transfer the scones to the baking sheet (no need to line it), then brush the tops of each scone with milk (for browning).

Freeze: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 15 minutes – this allows the butter to harden again, and helps the scones have a fluffier texture. If you don’t have room in your freezer, even 15 minutes in the fridge will help!

Bake: Immediately transfer the cold baking sheet to the middle rack of the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until the scones are golden. Remove from the oven and let sit on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Maple Glaze: Add the powdered sugar to a medium bowl and add the cherry juice, vanilla, and almond extract. Whisk until a thick but drippy glaze forms; if the glaze is too thin, add additional powdered sugar in 1 tablespoon increments. Set the entire cooling rack of scones back on the original baking sheet (to catch any drips), then drizzle the glaze over the scones. Sprinkle with turbinado sugar, if using.

Serve: Enjoy warm, or let cool before serving as desired. Store leftovers at room temperature, in a container with a loose-fitting lid, for up to 4 days. Leftover scones can also be frozen for up to 2 months and defrosted as necessary.