✓ Preheat Oven to 425°F (220°C)

✓ Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.

✓ Cut in Butter: Add cold butter chunks to dry mixture; use your fingers or a pastry cutter to incorporate the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.

✓ Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together heavy cream (or buttermilk) and vanilla extract. Slowly pour this mixture over the dry ingredients while gently folding with a rubber spatula until just combined; overmixing leads to tough scones.

✓ Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in chocolate chips using a large spoon or your hands, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout but not breaking them apart excessively.

✓ Shape Scones: Scoop dough onto a lightly floured surface and shape into 3-inch rounds using a biscuit cutter or glass. Place these on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; ensure spacing for even browning.

✓ Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown, checking frequently to avoid overbaking which can make them dry and hard.

✓ Cool and Serve: Allow scones to cool on a wire rack before serving. Warm from the oven, they are irresistible.