Creating nectarines scones is easy when you follow these steps:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
3. Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add Nectarines: Gently fold in the diced nectarines, being careful not to overmix.
5. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using).
6. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined.
7. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a couple of times to bring it together. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick.
8. Cut the Scones: Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to cut the dough into wedges or use a round cutter to make individual scones.
9. Transfer to Baking Sheet: Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
10. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the scones are lightly golden on top.
11. Cool: Allow the scones to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

By following these steps, you’ll create delicious nectarines scones that are sure to impress!