If you’re looking for a classic British treat that’s easy to make and always a crowd pleaser, you can’t go wrong with scone recipes.
These tender, flaky pastries are perfect for afternoon tea, breakfast, or as a snack any time of day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This scone recipe is a traditional British scone recipe that yields a deliciously tender and flaky texture. It’s also incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and some basic mixing and baking skills.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll love how simple and rewarding this recipe is.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize your scones with a variety of flavors and ingredients, from classic buttermilk and cheddar cheese to sweet and fruity options like cranberries and orange zest.
So whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, this recipe has got you covered.
Ingredients
Here is everything you need to make this recipe from scratch.
2 cups all-purpose flour , This type of flour is essential for creating a tender and flaky texture in your scones. All-purpose flour has a lower protein content than bread flour, which helps to prevent the scones from becoming tough and dense.
1/2 cup granulated sugar , Sugar adds a touch of sweetness to your scones and helps to balance out the savory flavors. You can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste, but keep in mind that too much sugar can make the scones overly sweet and dense.
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces , Cold butter is essential for creating a flaky texture in your scones. When you mix the butter into the dry ingredients, it should still be cold and firm to the touch.
This helps to create a layered, flaky texture as the scones bake.
3/4 cup heavy cream or buttermilk , Heavy cream or buttermilk adds moisture and tenderness to your scones. You can use either one, depending on your preference.
Buttermilk will give your scones a slightly tangy flavor, while heavy cream will make them richer and more indulgent.
1 large egg , The egg helps to bind the ingredients together and adds richness and moisture to the scones. Make sure to use a large egg, as this will help to ensure that the scones are tender and flaky.
1 teaspoon baking powder , Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the scones to rise. Make sure to use fresh baking powder, as old baking powder can lose its potency and affect the texture of the scones.
1/2 teaspoon salt , Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and helps to balance out the sweetness of the sugar. Use a flaky sea salt or kosher salt for the best flavor.
1/2 cup chopped fresh or dried fruit, such as cranberries or cherries (optional) , If you want to add some extra flavor and texture to your scones, try adding some chopped fresh or dried fruit. Cranberries and cherries are both delicious options, but you can use any type of fruit you like.
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional) , If you want to make a savory scone, try adding some grated cheddar cheese. This will give your scones a rich, tangy flavor that’s perfect for serving with soups or stews.
Why These Ingredients
All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour is the foundation of this scone recipe, providing structure and texture to the finished scones. It’s essential to use a high quality all purpose flour that is fresh and has not been sitting on the shelf for too long.
Old flour can lose its potency and affect the texture of the scones.
When you’re mixing the flour with the other ingredients, make sure to use a gentle touch. Overmixing the dough can lead to tough, dense scones, so it’s essential to stop mixing as soon as the ingredients come together in a shaggy mass.
Granulated Sugar
Granulated sugar adds a touch of sweetness to the scones and helps to balance out the savory flavors. You can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste, but keep in mind that too much sugar can make the scones overly sweet and dense.
When you’re mixing the sugar with the other ingredients, make sure to use a gentle touch. Overmixing the dough can lead to tough, dense scones, so it’s essential to stop mixing as soon as the ingredients come together in a shaggy mass.
Instructions
Let’s walk through every step in detail so your scones turn out perfectly.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep , Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
This step is important because a cold oven will affect how the scones bake.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients , In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until fully combined. Make sure there are no lumps , this ensures even distribution throughout the batter.
Step 3: Add Cold Butter , Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough scones.
Step 4: Add Cream or Buttermilk and Egg , In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream or buttermilk and egg until well combined. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough scones.
Step 5: Fold in Fruit or Cheese (Optional) , If you’re using fruit or cheese, fold it into the dough at this stage. Be gentle, as you don’t want to overmix the dough.
Step 6: Turn Out Dough and Pat into Circle , Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently pat it into a circle that is about 1 inch thick. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to tough scones.
Step 7: Cut Out Scones , Use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out the scones. You should be able to get about 8-10 scones, depending on the size of your cutter.
Step 8: Bake Scones , Place the scones on the prepared baking tray and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on the scones, as they can go from perfectly cooked to burnt in just a few minutes.
How To Serve
serve your scones warm with clotted cream and jam for a classic British treat. This is a great option for afternoon tea or a special occasion.
try serving your scones with a bowl of soup or stew for a comforting and satisfying meal. This is a great option for a cold winter’s day.
if you’re feeling fancy, try serving your scones with a selection of cheeses, meats, and crackers for a delicious and easy appetizer or snack. This is a great option for a party or special occasion.
serve your scones with a cup of coffee or tea for a quick and easy breakfast on the go. This is a great option for a busy morning.
How To Keep Leftovers
Room Temperature
you can store your scones at room temperature for up to 2 days. Simply place them in an airtight container and keep them away from direct sunlight.
When you’re ready to serve, simply warm the scones in the oven or microwave.
Refrigerator
you can store your scones in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Simply place them in an airtight container and keep them away from strong smelling foods.
When you’re ready to serve, simply warm the scones in the oven or microwave.
Freezer
you can store your scones in the freezer for up to 2 months. Simply place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and keep them away from strong smelling foods.
When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the scones overnight in the refrigerator and warm them in the oven or microwave.
Top Tips
Tip One
Make sure to use cold ingredients, as this will help to create a flaky texture in your scones.
Also, don’t overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough scones.
Tip Two
Use a gentle touch when mixing the ingredients, as this will help to prevent the scones from becoming tough and dense.
Also, make sure to use a high all purpose flour that is fresh and has not been sitting on the shelf for too long.
Tip Three
Don’t overbake the scones, as this can make them dry and crumbly.
Instead, bake them for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on the scones, as they can go from perfectly cooked to burnt in just a few minutes.
Tip Four
Use a variety of flavors and ingredients to customize your scones.
Try adding some chopped fresh or dried fruit, or some grated cheddar cheese for a savory option. You can also use different types of milk or cream to change the flavor and texture of the scones.
Tip Five
Make sure to serve your scones warm, as this will help to bring out the flavors and textures.
You can warm them in the oven or microwave, or simply serve them at room temperature. Either way, your scones are sure to be a hit with your friends and family.
Final Thoughts
Scone recipes are a classic British treat that’s easy to make and always a crowd pleaser. With these simple tips and tricks, you can create delicious and tender scones that are perfect for any occasion.
So why not give it a try and see what you think?
