Why Sea Buckthorn?

Sea buckthorn berries may be lesser-known, but they bring something extraordinary to baked goods. Known for their vibrant orange hue and unique, tart flavor, sea buckthorn berries add a burst of citrus-like brightness that beautifully offsets the rich, earthy notes of banana and nuts. Beyond flavor, these berries are packed with antioxidants, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a smart addition to your baking routine.

The Benefits of Oat Flour

In this recipe, oat flour is paired with all-purpose flour to add a hearty texture and a hint of natural sweetness, creating a balanced and satisfying scone. Oat flour is a wonderful choice for several reasons. First, it’s a great source of fiber, adding nutritional value and enhancing satiety. It also contributes a tender, crumbly texture to baked goods without overpowering other flavors, allowing the banana and sea buckthorn to shine. Additionally, oat flour is a naturally gluten-free option, making it a popular choice for those looking to reduce gluten. This blend of flours results in a rustic, nourishing scone that feels both comforting and wholesome.

Banana and Nuts: The Perfect Pairing

There’s a reason banana nut bread is beloved—it combines natural sweetness and texture to create a cozy, satisfying treat. Adding banana to these scones brings in moisture and richness, while the nuts add a delightful crunch. By blending these familiar flavors with the bold twist of sea buckthorn, you get a scone that’s both wholesome and dynamic in flavor.

The Recipe: Easy and Adaptable

This recipe uses a mix of all-purpose and oat flour, which makes the scones light yet hearty, with a slightly nutty flavor that complements the ingredients. You’ll love the flexibility of this recipe: it’s perfect for a leisurely weekend baking project but simple enough for weekday baking too. The mix of banana, nuts, and dried sea buckthorn berries creates a moist and flavorful scone with just the right amount of sweetness and tang.

Tips for Success

Keep the Butter Cold: Cold butter ensures flaky, tender scones. If possible, chill your ingredients, including the flour, for a few minutes before starting.
Choose Your Flour: For added fiber, this recipe includes a blend of all-purpose and oat flour. Oat flour gives a heartier texture and a mild sweetness that pairs well with banana and seaberries.
Dried vs. Fresh Sea Buckthorn: While this recipe calls for dried sea buckthorn berries, feel free to use fresh or frozen if available. Just reduce the banana slightly to account for the extra moisture.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these scones fresh out of the oven or at room temperature. They’re delightful on their own, but you can also pair them with a touch of butter, clotted cream, or a drizzle of honey for an extra indulgent treat. For those looking to complement the tartness of sea buckthorn, a light spread of citrus marmalade is an exceptional pairing.

Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, these Banana Nut and Sea Buckthorn Scones are a delicious way to enjoy unique ingredients in a familiar format. Bake up a batch, and discover how just a few additions can take a classic favorite to a whole new level!