Canadian Maple Scones

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spread walnuts onto a baking sheet.
• Toast walnuts in the preheated oven until nuts turn golden brown and become fragrant, about 5 minutes. Watch carefully; nuts can burn quickly. Set aside to cool to room temperature.
• Increase oven temperature to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
• Place 3 tablespoons flour, 3 tablespoons brown sugar, and 1/2 cup cooled walnuts in a small bowl. Cut in 2 tablespoons butter using two knives or a pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Whisk together 2 cups flour, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in 1/2 cup butter using two knives or a pastry blender until mixture resembles fine crumbs. Stir in remaining 1/2 cup walnuts.
• Whisk together 1/3 cup maple syrup and egg in a small bowl; stir into flour mixture. Gradually stir in just enough milk for the dough to leave the sides of the bowl and form a ball.
• Place dough on a lightly floured surface. Roll gently in flour to coat; knead lightly about 10 times. Pat into an 8-inch circle on an ungreased baking sheet. Brush with milk; sprinkle evenly with topping. Score dough circle into 8 wedges with a knife, but do not separate wedges.
• Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 15 minutes. Remove immediately from the baking sheet, and separate the scones. Serve warm with whipped cream and maple syrup.