Tea Time Date and Cardamom Scones

I have a real weakness when it comes to pastries, and I can’t imagine tea time without a little something yummy to munch on. Of course, it’s a real bonus when great taste is combined with good nutrition, and these scrumptious, easy to make scones have an abundance of both!

Whole wheat provides fiber while sweet, sticky dates are a great source of B vitamins, iron, potassium, and magnesium. There is even a pinch of calcium and a dash of protein. Who can say no to that?

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon finely ground cardamom
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup butter
• ¼ cup sugar (more for a sweeter scone)
• 1 egg
• 1 cup milk
• 1 ½ cup chopped dates

Directions

• Preheat oven to 200° C  (400° F)

• Whisk together the flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, cardamom and salt in a bowl.

• In a separate bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the butter and sugar.  Add the egg and milk to the sugar and butter and continue mixing for one minute. When well blended, remove the electric mixer as it is no longer needed. Using a large spoon, stir the dates into this mixture, then add the entire flour mixture and stir just enough to moisten. Do not overmix.

• Now, divide the dough into two equal portions and roll each into a ball. On a floured countertop, flatten each ball into circles about 2 cm thick. Slice each circle into 6 wedges, as though you are slicing a pizza. Carefully place the now triangular scones onto a buttered baking sheet and place into the pre-heated oven for about 18-20 minutes.