simple scone recipe

Simple Scone Recipe: How to Make Perfect Scones Every Time

Making scones is a rewarding way to enjoy a warm, flaky treat in under 30 minutes. This classic scone recipe is simple, versatile, and can be customized to include your favorite flavors. Here’s how to make delicious scones that are tender on the inside with a crisp, golden crust on the outside.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup (180ml) heavy cream (plus a little extra for brushing)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir until these ingredients are well-mixed, as this ensures an even rise and taste in your scones.

Step 3: Add Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. It’s okay if there are still small lumps of butter; they will make the scones flakier.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the flour and butter mixture. Use a fork to gently mix until everything just comes together; avoid over-mixing to keep the scones tender.

Step 5: Form the Dough
Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. If the dough feels sticky, lightly dust your hands with flour to make handling easier.

Step 6: Cut and Arrange
Use a knife to cut the circle into 8 wedges. Place each wedge on your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them to allow the scones to expand as they bake.

Step 7: Brush with Cream
Brush the tops of the scones with a little extra heavy cream. This step gives the scones a golden-brown crust.

Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on the edges. To ensure even baking, rotate the baking sheet halfway through if necessary.

Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the scones cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature with butter, jam, or clotted cream.

Tips for Perfect Scones

• Cold Butter is Key: Cold butter creates pockets in the dough, giving the scones a flaky texture.
• Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing can make the scones tough. Just mix until the dough holds together.
• Add-Ins: You can add berries, chocolate chips, or even nuts to the dough in Step 4 for extra flavor.

Enjoy your homemade scones with tea, coffee, or as a treat all on their own!