Name: Chocolate Chip Zucchini Scones Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 Tablespoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, diced small; 1 cup + 1 Tablespoon buttermilk; ¼ cup packed light brown sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups shredded fresh zucchini (excess water squeezed out); ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; Melted chocolate for drizzling

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 51 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a delightful twist on a classic baked good, this Chocolate Chip Zucchini Scones Recipe might just become your new favorite! These scones are wonderfully moist thanks to the fresh zucchini, perfectly balanced with the sweetness of semi-sweet chocolate chips, and have a tender crumb that will make your mornings extra special. Whether you’re sharing them with friends over coffee or enjoying a cozy solo treat, this recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both comforting and a little indulgent. Let’s dive into the details and get you baking these gems in no time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two side-by-side photos of a baking scene on a wooden table with a white marbled texture background. In both photos, a large clear glass bowl is filled with white flour. In the left photo, there are several small yellow butter pieces on top of the flour in the bowl, and behind the bowl sit three small white bowls with chocolate chips, dark brown liquid, and brown sugar. In the right photo, a woman's hand with red nail polish is holding a red pastry blender, mixing the butter into the flour in the same clear bowl, creating a crumbly texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential for achieving the perfect texture, flavor, and that beautiful golden color. Each item plays its part, from the zing of vanilla to the rich creaminess of butter and the fresh moisture of zucchini, all coming together to create scones that truly sing.

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure to your scones.
1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps your scones rise and become fluffy.
¼ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to tenderize and add a subtle lift.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, diced small: Creates a flaky, tender crumb when cut into the flour.
1 cup + 1 tablespoon buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang that brightens the scones.
¼ cup packed light brown sugar: Gives a warm sweetness and slight caramel notes.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with sweet, aromatic depth.
1 ½ cups shredded fresh zucchini (excess water squeezed out): Adds moisture and a subtle fresh vegetable flavor without overpowering.
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts into pockets of sweetness throughout.
Melted chocolate (optional for drizzling): Adds a decorative and delicious finishing touch.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Zucchini Scones Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Workspace and Dry Ingredients

Start by lining a sheet tray with parchment paper—this will ensure your scones bake evenly and don’t stick. Next, whisk together your flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl. This dry mixture is the foundation of your scones, so give it a good blend to distribute all the leavening agents properly.

Step 2: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, diced unsalted butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to combine until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs smaller than peas. This step is crucial because those tiny bits of butter will create tender layers and that ideal flaky texture many scone lovers crave.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. This sweet, tangy mixture will bring moisture and a lovely depth of flavor to your scones.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixes

Slowly stir the wet ingredients into the flour and butter mixture using a spoon. Stir just until they are almost fully combined—this will prevent overworking the dough and keep your scones tender.

Step 5: Fold in Zucchini and Chocolate Chips

Add the shredded zucchini (make sure you’ve squeezed out the excess water so it doesn’t sog your dough) and chocolate chips. Gently fold these in until evenly distributed, knowing the dough might be a little sticky—that’s perfect!

Step 6: Shape and Chill the Dough

Lightly flour a clean work surface and shape the dough into a ball, then gently flatten into an 8-inch circle. Sprinkle a bit more flour on top and roll it slightly to maintain the circle size. Cut the circle into eight triangles and spread them apart on your lined sheet tray. Pop the tray into the fridge for 15 minutes to let them firm up, which helps them hold their shape when baking.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Before baking, brush the tops of the chilled scones with the remaining tablespoon of buttermilk—this encourages a beautiful golden crust. Bake on the middle rack for 17 to 20 minutes, until the scones are lightly golden and smell heavenly.

Step 8: Cool and Add the Finishing Touch

After baking, allow your scones to cool for about 10 minutes on the sheet tray, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. For an extra hint of chocolate goodness, drizzle melted chocolate over the tops. This final flourish will wow anyone lucky enough to get a bite!

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Zucchini Scones Recipe

Four golden brown scones with hints of green zucchini and dark brown chocolate chips are arranged on a white tray with a light blue edge. Each scone is drizzled with a thick, smooth layer of chocolate on top in neat, wavy lines. Scattered around the scones on the tray are more dark chocolate chips, some whole and some broken. Next to the tray, a small clear glass bowl filled with chocolate chips is visible. The background surface is white marbled texture with a wooden handle utensil at the lower right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar can add a charming sweetness and beautiful presentation. For a show-stopping approach, the melted chocolate drizzle ties the whole experience together by adding luscious richness that pairs perfectly with the tender scones.

Side Dishes

Serve these scones with a dollop of cream cheese or clotted cream and fresh fruit like berries or sliced peaches to create a balanced breakfast or afternoon snack spread. A cup of hot coffee or chai tea complements the flavors wonderfully and elevates your treat to café-quality indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your scones on a wooden serving board surrounded by small bowls of nuts, honey, or additional chocolate chips for dipping. You can even sandwich a little whipped cream or nut butter inside two scones for a playful twist on the traditional serving style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’ll remain soft and moist, ready to brighten your snack time without needing a trip to the bakery.

Freezing

You can freeze these scones for longer storage. Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to three months. Just thaw overnight at room temperature or in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To revive that just-baked warmth, pop your scones in a 350°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. This brings back their golden crust and soft interiors without drying them out. Alternatively, a quick 20-second zap in the microwave works in a pinch but may soften the crunchiness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen zucchini for this Chocolate Chip Zucchini Scones Recipe?

It’s best to use fresh zucchini if possible, because frozen zucchini has more moisture and can make the dough too wet. If you must use frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed and squeeze out as much water as you can before adding it to the dough.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle, and then use it as a perfect buttermilk substitute in the recipe.

How do I prevent the scones from being dry?

The key is not to overmix your dough and to incorporate enough moisture from the zucchini and buttermilk. Also, chilling the dough helps maintain the butter’s coldness, which contributes to tender, flaky scones rather than dry ones.

Can I make these scones dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free butter and a plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk mixed with lemon juice for a buttermilk substitute. The texture and flavor might be slightly different, but the scones will still be delicious.

Why are my scones not rising properly?

Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh and haven’t expired. Also, avoid overmixing the dough to prevent activating gluten too much, which can hinder rise. Finally, don’t skip chilling the dough before baking—it helps the scones hold their shape and lift better in the oven.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Chip Zucchini Scones Recipe is such a joy to make and savor, blending wholesome ingredients with a touch of sweet indulgence. I promise, once you bake these, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again for a comforting breakfast or a lovely afternoon treat. Give it a go and enjoy every delicious bite!