Caramel Apple Pie Scones

Directions

1. To make the caramel:
2. In a heavy sauce pan over medium-high heat, whisk together water and sugar until mixture is combined and starting to boil.
3. Swirl occasionally, until mixture turns amber.
4. Whisk in butter.
5. Remove from heat, wait three seconds, then slowly whisk in cream.
6. Set aside to cool.
7. To make the glaze:
8. In a microwave proof bowl, heat butter and juice in a microwave just until butter is melted.
9. Whisk in sugar and vanilla until smooth.
10. Set aside.
11. To make the scones:
12. Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees.
13. In a small bowl, toss together apple, lemon juice, and spices, set aside.
14. In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
15. Cut butter into flour mixture, until it resembles coarse crumbs.
16. Add in apple mixture, stir until well combined.
17. In a measuring cup, mix together buttermilk and juice.
18. Pour a little liquid at a time into the flour mixture.
19. Fold the liquid in. Do this just until all dry ingredients are brought in. You may not need to use all the liquid.
20. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface.
21. Knead just until dough holds together, and is not sticky.
22. Pat to about 3/4 inch thick.
23. Using a sharp knife, cut into triangles.
24. Place scones on a ungreased sheet pan.
25. Bake until golden brown, about 15 - 20 minutes.
26. Remove from oven, place on a cooling rack over a sheet pan.
27. While scones are hot, brush with glaze.
28. Let cool. Just before serving, drizzle lightly with caramel.