Classic Scones
How to Make Perfect Scones better than your favorite coffee shop in just 35 minutes! This Classic Scones recipe is ultra buttery, flaky, and flavorful, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any special occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with jam and cream or as a stand-alone treat, these scones will steal the show.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: You can whip up these Classic Scones in just 35 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings.
- Flavorful and Flaky: The combination of cold butter and buttermilk results in scones that are rich in flavor and have a delightful flaky texture.
- Versatile Options: Feel free to add dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate for a personalized touch. These scones can adapt to any taste!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate or freeze for later baking. Enjoy fresh scones anytime!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual breakfast or a festive gathering, these scones will impress family and friends.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make perfect Classic Scones.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Baking pans
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl ensures you have enough space to mix your ingredients without spilling.
- Pastry cutter or fork: This tool helps distribute the cold butter evenly throughout the flour for optimal flakiness.
- Baking pans: Proper baking pans ensure even heat distribution, leading to perfectly baked scones.
Ingredients
To make delicious Classic Scones, gather the following ingredients:
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups (381 grams) all-purpose flour, (measured correctly)
- 1/3 cup (66 grams) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/2 sticks (170 grams) unsalted butter, (cold and cubed)
- 1 cup (237 grams) buttermilk
- 2 large eggs, (divided)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- Coarse sugar, (for topping)
How to Make Classic Scones
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Adjust the oven rack to the center position and preheat your oven to 400°F. Line two baking pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, fine sea salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Mix well.
Step 3: Cut in Butter
Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter.
– Use a pastry cutter or a fork to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles large peas.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the buttermilk, one of the eggs, and vanilla extract. Make sure it’s well combined.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Make a well in the center of your dry mixture.
– Pour in the wet ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing. If desired, add any dried fruit or other flavorings at this stage.
Step 6: Transfer Dough & Shape Scones
Transfer your dough onto a floured surface.
– Optionally laminate dough using techniques found in recipe notes.
– Divide into two equal parts. Lightly knead each part into rounds about 3/4-inch thick and cut into eight wedges. Place them on prepared baking pans with space between each piece.
Step 7: Make Ahead Instructions
At this point:
– Unbaked scones can be covered and refrigerated overnight or placed in an airtight container and frozen for up to one month. If baking from frozen, add about two extra minutes to baking time.
Step 8: Prepare for Baking
In a small bowl:
1. Combine remaining egg with 1 teaspoon of water. Brush this mixture over each scone.
2. Sprinkle coarse sugar on top for added crunch.
Step 9: Bake Scones
Bake for about 12-15 minutes until lightly browned. These Classic Scones are best served warm or within hours of baking for maximum freshness!
How to Serve Classic Scones
Serving Classic Scones is a delightful experience that can enhance your breakfast or brunch table. These scones pair wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments that elevate their flavor and presentation.
With Clotted Cream
- Clotted cream adds a rich, buttery texture that complements the flaky scone beautifully.
With Jam or Marmalade
- A sweet fruit jam or tangy marmalade can provide a burst of flavor, making each bite extra special.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve alongside fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing and colorful touch.
With Honey
- Drizzling honey over warm scones can add natural sweetness and a lovely floral note.
With Tea or Coffee
- Pairing scones with a hot beverage enhances the comforting experience of enjoying these treats.
How to Perfect Classic Scones
To achieve perfect Classic Scones, there are some essential tips to follow. These suggestions will help ensure your scones turn out light, fluffy, and delicious every time.
- Use cold ingredients: Cold butter and buttermilk help create flaky layers in your scones.
- Don’t overmix: Combine the ingredients just until they come together; this prevents tough scones.
- Cut straight down: When cutting your scone dough, press the knife straight down instead of twisting it to maintain the rise.
- Chill before baking: If you have time, chilling the shaped scones for 15-30 minutes can enhance their texture.
- Bake on parchment paper: This ensures easy removal and helps achieve an even golden color on the bottom.
Best Side Dishes for Classic Scones
Enhancing your meal with side dishes that complement Classic Scones can create a more balanced dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and vibrancy.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for added texture and flavor.
- Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche can provide a hearty contrast to sweet scones.
- Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses offers savory balance; consider brie or cheddar.
- Smoked Salmon: The richness of smoked salmon pairs well with the buttery taste of scones.
- Cucumber Sandwiches: Light and refreshing cucumber sandwiches add an elegant touch to your brunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Classic Scones can be easy, but there are common pitfalls that can ruin your batch. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Incorrect measurements: Using too much or too little flour can affect the texture. Always measure accurately using a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups.
- Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough scones rather than flaky ones. Mix only until combined to keep them light and airy.
- Using warm butter: Warm butter will not create the desired flaky layers. Make sure to use cold, cubed butter for the best results.
- Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Preheat your oven fully before putting in the scones.
- Skipping egg wash: An egg wash provides a beautiful golden finish. Don’t forget this step for that perfect look!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store scones in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Classic Scones
- Wrap each unbaked scone tightly in plastic wrap.
- Freeze for up to 1 month for optimal freshness.
Reheating Classic Scones
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat one scone at a time for about 15-20 seconds, but be cautious as they may become chewy.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 3-5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Classic Scones.
How do I know when my scones are done?
Scones should be lightly browned on top and firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may result in denser scones. Consider mixing it with all-purpose flour for better texture.
What can I add to my Classic Scones?
You can customize your scones by adding dried fruits like cranberries or blueberries, chocolate chips, or nuts.
How do I store leftover Classic Scones?
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them.
Final Thoughts
These Classic Scones are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various flavors or enjoy them plain with your favorite jam. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to bring comfort and joy!
Classic Scones
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 16 scones 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth of homemade Classic Scones, a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any special occasion. This recipe yields buttery and flaky scones that can be enjoyed plain or dressed up with your favorite jams and creams. Ready in just 35 minutes, these scones are not only quick to prepare but also customizable—add dried fruits or chocolate for a personal touch! Impress your family and friends with this charming addition to your brunch table or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs (divided)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Coarse sugar (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line two baking pans with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
- Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, one egg, and vanilla extract.
- Make a well in the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Stir until just combined.
- Transfer dough to a floured surface; divide into two rounds about 3/4 inch thick and cut each into eight wedges.
- Place on prepared pans; brush with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly browned.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
