Meaghan Moineau — Home Cook & Story-Driven Food Creator

Category: Game Day Snack

  • Rich Jelly Scones | Made by Meaghan Moineau

    Rich Jelly Scones | Made by Meaghan Moineau

    Rich Jelly Scones

    There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked scones wafting through the kitchen. I remember when I was a child, visiting my grandmother’s house every Sunday morning. The highlight of those visits was her famous scones, baked to perfection and topped with a generous dollop of homemade berry preserves. These Rich Jelly Scones are my tribute to those cherished memories, and I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you.

    Why You’ll Love It

    These scones are not just a delight to the senses; they are also incredibly easy to make. The texture is light and fluffy with a slightly crisp exterior, and the sweet surprise of fruit preserves in the center makes each bite pure bliss. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and sure to impress.

    Ingredients

    • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
    • 1 tablespoon baking powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
    • 2 eggs
    • 1/2 cup milk
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1/2 cup fruit preserves (your choice)
    • 1 egg (for egg wash)
    • 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)

    Instructions

    1. Pre-heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
    2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
    3. Cut the chilled butter into the dry ingredients using a fork or hand-held pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
    4. Add the vanilla extract, eggs, and milk to the mixture. Stir just until combined, being careful not to over-mix.
    5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a round disc approximately 8 inches in diameter, ensuring it is slightly thicker in the center.
    6. With a sharp knife, cut the disc into eight even pie-shaped wedges.
    7. Place the wedges onto a lightly greased baking sheet.
    8. Using a spoon, press a small well into the wide end of each scone and fill with a spoonful of fruit preserves.
    9. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra egg and tablespoon of milk. Brush this mixture over the exposed surfaces of each scone.
    10. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and cooked through.

    Tips

    When making scones, it’s crucial to keep your ingredients cold, particularly the butter. This helps create the flaky texture we all love. Also, resist the urge to over-mix the dough; mixing too much can make the scones tough.

    Variations & Substitutions

    Feel free to experiment with different types of fruit preserves. Strawberry, raspberry, and apricot are all excellent choices. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour. For a dairy-free version, use a vegan butter substitute and almond milk.

    Storage

    Scones are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes.

    FAQ

    Can I use frozen fruit instead of preserves?

    While frozen fruit can be a tempting alternative, it may release too much liquid during baking, making the scones soggy. It’s best to stick with fruit preserves for this recipe.

    Why are my scones not rising?

    If your scones aren’t rising, it could be due to expired baking powder or soda. Make sure these leavening agents are fresh for the best results.

    Nutrition

    Each scone contains approximately 250 calories, 12 grams of fat, 30 grams of carbohydrates, and 5 grams of protein. These values may vary depending on the type of fruit preserves used.

    Final Thoughts

    Baking these Rich Jelly Scones is more than just creating a delicious treat; it’s about embracing a tradition and making your own memories. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your home as it has to mine. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delightful experience of making and sharing these scones with your loved ones.

    Related Reading

    Related update: Rich Jelly Scones

  • Sausage & Pepperoni Stromboli | Made by Meaghan Moineau

    Sausage & Pepperoni Stromboli | Made by Meaghan Moineau

    Sausage & Pepperoni Stromboli

    Welcome to our cozy kitchen, where today we’re going to dive into a classic, mouthwatering recipe: Sausage & Pepperoni Stromboli. This dish brings back fond memories of family gatherings at my grandmother’s house, where the rich aromas of freshly baked bread and sizzling sausage would fill the air. As a child, I remember eagerly waiting for the moment we could slice into the golden crust to reveal the cheesy, savory filling inside. Now, I’m excited to share this beloved recipe with you!

    Why You’ll Love It

    This Sausage & Pepperoni Stromboli is a delightful twist on traditional pizza, featuring a flaky, golden crust wrapped around a hearty, cheesy filling. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner, a game day snack, or even a potluck dish. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

    • Simple and Satisfying: With just a few ingredients, this stromboli is easy to assemble yet incredibly satisfying.
    • Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or even a lunchbox treat.
    • Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy customizing their slices with extra pizza sauce or toppings.
    • Make-Ahead: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!

    Ingredients

    • 1 egg
    • 1/2 pound Italian sausage
    • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
    • 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
    • 1 roll of pizza dough
    • 1/2 cup pizza sauce, plus more for serving
    • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

    Instructions

    1. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F. Cook the Italian sausage in a medium skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces.
    2. Line a baking pan with parchment paper and lightly flour the surface. Roll out the pizza dough to form a large rectangle.
    3. Brush a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
    4. Evenly spread the crumbled sausage over the sauce, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese.
    5. Layer the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese, then sprinkle 3/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese over the top.
    6. Gently fold in the short sides of the dough to form a seal around the filling.
    7. Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into about one third of the stromboli. Using the parchment paper to assist, continue rolling until you reach the opposite end. Pinch the seam to seal and place the stromboli seam-side down on the baking pan.
    8. In a small bowl, mix the egg with 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the egg mixture over the stromboli and sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.
    9. Place in the oven and immediately turn the temperature down to 350 degrees F. Bake for approximately 18 minutes.
    10. Remove from the oven and let the stromboli rest for 10 minutes. Check the center to ensure the dough is fully cooked. If needed, slice the stromboli in half and bake for an additional 5-8 minutes.
    11. Slice and serve with warm pizza sauce for dipping.

    Tips

    • Ensure your dough is at room temperature before rolling it out to prevent it from shrinking back.
    • For a crispier crust, use a pizza stone preheated in the oven.
    • Let the stromboli rest before slicing to allow the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut.

    Variations & Substitutions

    Feel free to get creative with your stromboli filling! Here are some ideas to customize your dish:

    • Vegetarian: Swap the sausage and pepperoni for mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach.
    • Extra Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick.
    • Different Cheeses: Experiment with provolone or cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.

    Storage

    Store any leftover stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also freeze the baked stromboli for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

    FAQ

    Can I use store-bought dough?

    Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough works wonderfully for this recipe and saves time. Just ensure it’s at room temperature before rolling it out.

    How can I prevent the filling from leaking?

    Be sure to seal the edges of the dough well and avoid overfilling. Gently pinching the seams and tucking the ends will help contain the delicious filling.

    Nutrition

    This stromboli is a hearty dish that provides protein from the sausage and cheese, along with carbohydrates from the dough. While it’s a treat best enjoyed occasionally, you can balance it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

    Final Thoughts

    This Sausage & Pepperoni Stromboli is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of pizza in a new, exciting form. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual get-together, it’s sure to be a hit. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. Happy cooking!

    Related Reading

    Related update: Sausage & Pepperoni Stromboli

    Related update: North Carolina-Style BBQ Pulled Pork