Scones Recipe

Scones are tender, flaky pastries with a lightly crisp exterior and soft, buttery center. Perfect alongside tea or coffee, these classic baked treats can be enjoyed plain or dressed up with fruit, glaze, or jam.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This scone recipe is simple, reliable, and yields consistently delicious results. Made with basic ingredients and no fancy techniques, it’s the ideal base for both sweet and savory variations. Whether you enjoy them warm with clotted cream or as a quick breakfast on the go, these scones are sure to become a staple in your baking rotation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• Heavy cream or whole milk
• Large egg
• Vanilla extract (optional)
• Optional add-ins: dried fruit, chocolate chips, citrus zest, herbs, or cheese

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, cream (or milk), and vanilla extract if using.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. If using add-ins, fold them in gently.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times to bring it together. Pat into a circle about ¾–1 inch thick.
7. Cut into 8 wedges or use a round cutter for traditional scone shapes. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Brush the tops with a bit of cream or beaten egg for a golden finish.
9. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
10. Cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 8 scones.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: approximately 40–45 minutes

Variations

• Blueberry Lemon Scones: Add 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries and 1 tablespoon lemon zest.
• Cheddar Herb Scones: Omit sugar and vanilla, then add 1 cup shredded cheddar and 1 tablespoon chopped chives or thyme.
• Chocolate Chip Scones: Fold in ¾ cup chocolate chips for a sweeter option.
• Glazed Scones: Mix powdered sugar with milk or lemon juice for a drizzle after baking.
• Cranberry Orange Scones: Add dried cranberries and orange zest for a festive touch.

storage/reheating

Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–10 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds until soft and warm.

FAQs

What makes a good scone?

Cold butter, minimal mixing, and not overbaking are key to achieving light, flaky scones with a tender crumb.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, whole milk works, but heavy cream yields richer, softer scones.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, shape and refrigerate the dough for up to 12 hours before baking.

Should scone dough be sticky?

It should be slightly sticky but manageable. Add a bit more flour if it’s too wet.

How do I get tall, fluffy scones?

Don’t overwork the dough, and make sure your baking powder is fresh. Cutting straight down (not twisting) also helps.

Can I freeze scone dough?

Yes, freeze cut, unbaked scones on a tray, then store in a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Why are my scones dry?

They may have been overbaked or had too much flour. Always measure accurately and monitor baking time.

Can I make mini scones?

Yes, divide the dough into smaller portions and reduce baking time to 10–12 minutes.

What’s the best way to serve scones?

Warm, with butter, jam, clotted cream, or a drizzle of glaze, depending on the flavor.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Texture may vary slightly, but they’ll still be tasty.

Conclusion

Scones are a timeless treat that’s as comforting as it is versatile. Whether you prefer them sweet or savory, with jam or plain, this simple recipe gives you a dependable base for all your favorite variations. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea, these scones are sure to impress and satisfy.

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