CORNMEAL CHERRY SCONES

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 425 F; line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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).
• 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.
• Place the scones on the middle rack of the oven and immediately turn the oven temperature down to 375°F.
• Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the scones are golden.
• Cool on a wire rack.