A classic scones recipe that yields light, fluffy, and buttery scones perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a cozy snack. Enjoy with clotted cream, jam, or a simple glaze.
Author:Beth
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:18 minutes
Total Time:33 minutes
Yield:8 scones 1x
Category:Baked Goods
Method:Bake
Cuisine:British
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
2/3 cup whole milk or heavy cream
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries) or chocolate chips
Optional: extra milk or cream for brushing tops
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add cold cubed butter and cut into the flour using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
In a small bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in any optional add-ins if using.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, knead briefly, and pat into a 1-inch thick round.
Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter for round scones and place on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush tops with milk or cream if desired for a golden finish.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
Cool slightly and serve warm with jam and cream.
Notes
Handle the dough gently to keep scones tender.
Freeze unbaked scones for later—bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
For a sweet glaze, mix powdered sugar with milk and drizzle over cooled scones.