Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, buttery scone that transports you straight to a cozy English tea room - without ever leaving your home! These Sweet and Simple Scones are your ticket to bakery-quality deliciousness with minimal effort. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to deliver melt-in-your-mouth scones that will make your taste buds dance and impress even the most discerning breakfast enthusiasts.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: British
Serves: 8 scones
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup butter, cold
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined and any lumps are broken up.
- Remove the cold butter from the refrigerator. Using a box grater or a sharp knife, cut the butter into small, pea-sized pieces directly into the dry ingredient mixture.
- Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, work the cold butter into the flour mixture quickly. The goal is to create a crumbly texture with small butter pieces distributed throughout the dry ingredients.
- Create a well in the center of the butter-flour mixture. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract.
- Gently mix the wet and dry ingredients using a fork or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the scones tough.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat the dough into a circular shape approximately 1-inch thick.
- Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the dough into 8 equal wedges, similar to cutting a pizza.
- Carefully transfer the scone wedges to the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each scone.
- Optional: Brush the top of each scone with a little extra heavy cream to help achieve a golden-brown finish.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges and tops are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the scones cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve warm with clotted cream, jam, or enjoy as is. These scones are best consumed on the day they are baked.
Tips
- Keep your butter COLD - this is the secret to flaky, tender scones. Cut it into tiny pieces and work quickly to prevent melting.
- Don't overwork the dough! Mix just until ingredients are combined to ensure a light, tender texture.
- For extra richness, brush the tops with heavy cream before baking to achieve a beautiful golden-brown finish.
- Use fresh baking powder to ensure your scones rise properly and have the perfect light, airy texture.
- Serve immediately or within a few hours of baking for the best taste and texture. These scones are at their absolute prime when fresh!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 330kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
