Maple-cured bacon (or ham) are breakfast regulars. So adding a bit of salty breakfast meat to your maple-flavored scones is a natural. A shower of maple sugar on top enhances the sweet/salty effect.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
Add the butter, working it in till the mixture is crumbly.
Whisk together the egg, milk, and maple flavor. Add this to the dry ingredients, along with the bacon or ham. Mix just till everything is evenly moistened.
Transfer the dough to a piece of parchment or a lightly floured work surface. Pat and roll it into a 9" x 9" square, about 5/8" thick.
Cut the dough into nine 3" squares. Then cut each square into two triangular wedges, to make a total of 18 scones.
Place the scones on a lightly greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, and put them in the freezer for 30 minutes. While the scones are chilling, preheat your oven to 425°F.
Brush the chilled scones with milk or cream, and sprinkle with additional maple sugar.
Bake the chilled scones for 18 to 20 minutes, or until they're a medium- to deep-golden brown.
Remove the scones from the oven, and cool them on a rack briefly. Serve warm — with maple syrup, if desired.
Yield: 18 scones.
