Instructions: FOR GIFT: Place dry mix in a 2 quart plastic bag. Wrap dried cherries in cellophane; tie with a ribbon. Arrange packaged mix, cherries, a 2 ounce bottle of brandy or apricot nectar, baked scones, and a bowl of Maple-Nut Butter in a cloth lined basket. Include recipes for Dried Cherry Scones and Maple-Nut Butter.

Makes 1 gift.

TO MAKE DRIED CHERRY SCONES: Combine dried tart red cherries and 2 tablespoons brandy or apricot nectar in bowl. Let stand for 15 minutes. Place scone mix in a medium bowl. Make a well in center of dry mix. Stir together 1 beaten egg and 1/3 cup half- and-half in a small mixing bowl. Add egg and cherry mixtures to dry mixture all at once. Using a fork, stir just till moistened. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 12 to 15 strokes. form dough into a 7-inch circle; cut into 8 wedges. Place scones 1 inch apart on an ungreased baking sheet. Brush tops with 1 tablespoon half-and-half. Sprinkle with 2 teaspoons sugar. bake in a 400 degree oven 12 to 15 minutes. Cool on a wire rack 5 minutes. serve warm with Maple-Nut Butter, if desired.

Makes 8.

Matercook

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