Oatmeal-Currant Scones

These scones are a bit lighter than most because they contain milk and not cream. They also contain nutritious, fiber-rich oatmeal. If you want to add a touch of sophistication to these scones, replace the orange juice with orange flavored liqueur. Serve warm with butter and jam.

Original recipe makes 16 scones

Ingredients

1/4 cup orange juice
1/4 cup water
1 cup dried currants
2 cups rolled oats
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
3 tablespoons white sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, cubed
1 1/3 cups cold milk

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Heat the orange juice and the water in a small pan, add the currants. Simmer the mixture for 1 minute, then let it sit until it cools slightly.
In a food processor, grind the oats with the flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and sugar. Add the butter. Run the machine in short spurts until the mixture has the consistency of sand. Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl.
Add milk and orange/currant mixture to the large mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture begins to hold together.
Form the dough into a large ball with your hands, adding a bit of milk if necessary. Press or roll out the ball of dough until it is 1 inch thick. Cut the dough into 16 squares or triangles.
Bake the scones on an ungreased baking sheet for 15 minutes or until they are lightly browned on the edges.