almost like a taste of McHatties at home

I say "almost" because nothing really compares to the multi-course meal, divine tea, and lovely conversation that usually accompanies a trip to McHatties. But it's as close as I can get to recreating the experience at home.

Before McHatties, I'd never experienced Devonshire cream on a scone. Let me tell you from one who's been there... a scone is just a dry crusty biscuit without it! Not really, but it GREATLY ENHANCES the scone experience.

First things first...

The scones...

Cinnamon Chip Scones

SERVINGS: 12

CATEGORY: Breads

METHOD: Baked

TIME: Prep: 25 min. Bake: 10 min.

Ingredients:
3-1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar, divided

2-1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup cold butter

1 cup buttermilk

1 package (10 ounces) cinnamon-flavored baking chips

2 tablespoons butter, melted

Directions:

In a large bowl, combine the flour, 1/3 cup sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in buttermilk just until moistened. Fold in chips. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; knead gently 10-12 times or until dough is no longer sticky. Divide in half; gently pat or roll each portion into a 7-in. circle. Brush with butter and sprinkle with remaining sugar. Cut each circle into six wedges. Separate wedges and place on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 425° for 10-13 minutes or until lightly browned. Serve warm. Yield: 1 dozen.

And last but certainly not least...

The crème de la crème... literally:

Mock Devonshire Cream

SERVINGS: 16

CATEGORY: Appetizer

METHOD: TIME: Prep/Total Time: 10 min.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar

1/2 cup sour cream

Directions:

In a small mixing bowl, beat whipping cream for 2 minutes. Add confectioners’ sugar and continue beating until stiff. Place the sour cream in a bowl; stir in a small amount of whipped cream. Fold in remaining whipped cream. Cover and refrigerate until serving. Yield: about 1 cup.

Enjoy!