The Lush Chef

Libations used: 2 Tbs Grand Marnier...
Libations left over: The glaze is boozy enough...
I realized earlier this week that it's probably been months since I've baked.  With social engagements and a busy period at work, I just haven't had the time.  To continue the brunch recipes from last week, I decided to make these Grand Marnier-Glazed Almond Scones from The Kitchn.  They called it a Valentine's Day recipe, but I say it's perfect for any time of year.  I still cut them out in heart shapes though and gave them to my awesome neighbors.  The Grand Marnier, an orange-flavored liqueur, packs plenty of a punch and pairs nicely with the almonds.  If you're looking for a healthier version, I would say these scones are perfect with just some orange marmelade spread on them.

Grand Marnier-Glazed Almond Scones - makes about a dozen
Ingredients for the scones:

• 2 1/3 cup flour
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tsps baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 salt
• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds

Ingredients for the glaze:

• 2 Tbs Grand Marnier
• Zest of a small orange
• 1 cup confectioner's sugar
• 1 tsp orange juice

To make the scones:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
- Cut the coconut oil into the dry ingredients and work it in with a pastry cutter or wooden spoon. There will still be some small pieces of coconut oil throughout.
- Make a well in the center of the bowl and set aside.
- In a small bowl, add the yogurt, egg and sliced almonds and whisk to thoroughly combine.
- Add the wet ingredients into the well of the bowl of dry ingredients and combine thoroughly until all the flour is absorbed.
- Roll the dough into a 1/2 think rectangle and wrap in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 350.
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator and cut out circle or heart shapes.
- Place them about an inch apart on the baking sheet and bake for 18 minutes, or until lightly browned.

To make the glaze:
- In a small mixing bowl, pour the Grand Marnier over the orange zest and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
- Add the confectioner's sugar and orange juice and stir to combine.
- Dip the scones or frost them in the glaze.