Merry Cherry - Nut Yeast Scones

• water↗1⁄4 cup
• (1/4 ounce) envelopes active dry yeast↗2
• sugar↗2 teaspoons
• all-purpose flour↗5 cups
• baking powder↗1 tablespoon
• salt↗2 teaspoons
• baking soda↗1 teaspoon
• shortening↗1 cup
• buttermilk↗2 cups
• dried cherries↗1⁄2 cup
• walnuts↗1⁄2 cup

  chopped

• jelly

  to taste (optional)

• Mock Devonshire Cream
• cream cheese↗1

  (8 ounce) package (optional)

• unsalted butter↗1⁄2 cup

  softened (optional)

• (12 ounce) package Cool Whip, thawed (optional)1

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   In a small bowl combine warm water, yeast and sugar and let proof 10 minutes.

2. 2

   In a large bowl combine flour, baking powder, salt and baking soda.

3. 3

   Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. 4

   Gradually add in yeast mixture and buttermilk, stirring just until dry ingredients are moistened.

5. 5

   Stir in cherries and walnuts, cover and chill at least 1 hour or up to 48 hours.

6. 6

   Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

7. 7

   Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead 3 - 4 times. Flatten to 1/2 inch thickness and cut with a 2 inch round cutter.

8. 8

   Place on ungreased baking sheet and bake until golden, about 10 minutes.

9. 9

   Serve hot with Mock Devonshire Cream and, if desired, jelly.

10. 10

    MOCK DEVONSHIRE CREAM: In a mixer bowl, beat cream cheese and butter at high speed until fluffy.

11. 11

    Add Cool Whip and beat at medium speed until blended.