Scones

Scones

Scones are a classic British baked good, perfect for breakfast or teatime. They’re light, flaky, and can be flavored with various ingredients. Here’s a basic recipe for traditional scones, which you can customize with add-ins like raisins, currants, or chocolate chips.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
  • 2/3 cup (160 ml) milk or cream (plus extra for brushing)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

For Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1/2 cup (75 g) raisins, currants, or chocolate chips
  • Zest of 1 lemon or orange (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Cut in the Butter:
    • Add the cold butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Add Wet Ingredients:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together the milk or cream, egg, and vanilla extract (if using).
    • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. If using add-ins like raisins or chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
  5. Shape the Dough:
    • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick rectangle or circle.
  6. Cut Out Scones:
    • Use a floured round cutter (about 2 inches in diameter) to cut out the scones. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
  7. Brush and Bake:
    • Brush the tops of the scones with a little milk or cream to help them brown.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top.
  8. Cool and Serve:
    • Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. They’re delicious on their own or with clotted cream and jam.

Enjoy your scones with a cup of tea or coffee!