It’s certainly convenient to snag a few coffee shop (or gas station…) baked goods on the way to the crag and/or boulder field for a delicious mid-day energy boost. But for those looking to save money and enjoy a just-as-tasty but healthier option, baking these simple homemade scones is the way to go. Not only are they incredibly quick and easy to make, but they’re filled with whole grains; healthy fats; delicious, energizing, antioxidant-rich maple syrup; and more recovery-supporting protein than traditional bakery treats. Oh, and your kitchen (or van) will smell amazing. Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups white whole wheat flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup shaved coconut
1 tablespoon real maple syrup (2-3 tablespoons for sugar lovers)
1/2 cup Greek yogurt* (No need to “cut in” butter!)
3/4 cup 2% milk**
1 egg with yolk and white separated***
1 teaspoon vanilla

*Substitute 1/2 cup applesauce for a dairy-free option.
**Substitute 3/4 cup soy or rice milk for a lactose-free, vegan-friendly option.
***Substitute 1/4 cup mashed banana for vegan deliciousness.

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Combine dry ingredients, including coconut, in medium-size bowl.
3. Whisk together milk, egg yoke, maple syrup and vanilla in small bowl.
4. Add milk mixture and Greek yogurt to dry ingredients and stir until dough forms.
5. Transfer dough onto lightly floured surface and pat into a 7-8 inch diameter disk.
6. Cut disk into wedges and transfer onto a lightly greased pan. Leave wedges together for higher-rising scones or separate for a crispier option.
7. Brush top of scones with egg white, and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown, turning them half-way through.
8. Allow scones to cool before packaging all but one up for the day. Taste-testing the remaining still-warm scone topped with your favorite jam and additional Greek or soy yogurt (to begin your day with a yummy protein base) is highly recommend.
9. Optional: While climbing top with your favorite jam for more quick, simple sugar energy, butter for a savory treat, or peanut butter and banana slices for long-lasting fuel.

And now you don’t have to feel bad about enjoying a sunset brew after eating baked goods all day 🙂

Note: For almond-butter lovers and those who just want to mix things up, substituting almond extract for the vanilla extract and topping with almond butter is also delicious.

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