Cornmeal Cherry Scones

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 425 F; line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
2. 2
   Sift the flour, baking soda and baking powder together into a large bowl; add the salt, 2/3 cup sugar and cornmeal and stir until combined.
3. 3
   Add the butter to the flour mixture and cut in with a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles small peas; mix in the dried cherries.
4. 4
   Make a well in the center and add the buttermilk; mix briefly, just until the ingredients come together; let batter rest for 5 minutes (it will be stiff and slightly sticky).
5. 5
   Gently shape the dough into balls about 2 1/4 inches in diameter and place them on prepared pans about 2 inches apart; sprinkle with the remaining 2 tablespoons sugar.
6. 6
   Place the scones on the middle rack of the oven and immediately turn the oven temperature down to 375°F.
7. 7
   Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the scones are golden.
8. 8
   Cool on a wire rack.