Pumpkin Fruit Scones

Directions

1. 1
   Boil or steam 1 cup pumpkin and mash it.
2. 2
   Set aside to cool.
3. 3
   Preheat oven to 200°C.
4. 4
   Lightly flour a heavy baking sheet and set aside.
5. 5
   Place flour, sugar, baking powder, bicarb soda and salt in a food processor and whiz to mix thoroughly.
6. 6
   Add the butter& process until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
7. 7
   (Mixing can also be done by hand by rubbing in butter with flour).
8. 8
   Transfer mix to large bowl.
9. 9
   Add the cherries, or fruit of choice and toss to mix.
10. 10
    Make well in the center.
11. 11
    Whisk together pumpkin& buttermilk and pour into the well.
12. 12
    Stir mix very lightly with a fork until thoroughly moistened.
13. 13
    Turn out onto floured surface, knead a few times to just combine.
14. 14
    Pat into a 3cm think round, dip a scone cutter or small glass into flour and cut out scones.
15. 15
    Place fairly close together on baking sheet, brush with milk for a dull glaze or egg yolk mix for shine.
16. 16
    Bake for 12-20 minutes (allows for different oven temperaments).
17. 17
    Remove from oven.
18. 18
    wrap in a tea towel for five minutes.
19. 19
    Serve hot with butter, or go the full hog and use your favourite jam topped with a dollop of cream.