A scone is a traditional baked good that originated in the United Kingdom. It is a small, lightly sweetened pastry often enjoyed with tea or as a breakfast item. Scones have a texture that is somewhere between a biscuit and a cake, with a crumbly and tender interior. They are typically made with flour, butter, sugar, baking powder, and sometimes eggs and milk. The dough is rolled out and cut into round or triangular shapes before being baked until golden brown. Scones can be plain or flavored with additions such as fruits, nuts, chocolate chips, or spices. They are commonly served with clotted cream, jam, butter, or lemon curd. Scones come in various flavors and variations, making them a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in different ways.
Traditional scones are a classic British baked good that are simple, yet delicious. Here's a basic recipe for traditional scones:
Ingredients:
- 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 cut into small cubes
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 cup raisins or currants for fruit scones
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- If you're making fruit scones, stir in the raisins or currants at this point.
- In a separate bowl, combine the milk and vanilla extract. Gradually pour the milk mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring with a fork, until the dough comes together.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times to bring it together, but be careful not to overwork the dough.
- Roll or pat the dough to a thickness of about 3/4 inch (2 cm). Use a round biscuit cutter to cut out scones from the dough, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Gather the remaining dough scraps, gently re-roll, and cut out more scones until the dough is used up.
- Bake the scones in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top.
- Remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.
Traditional scones are often served with clotted cream and jam. Split the scones in half and spread them with clotted cream and your favorite jam for a delightful treat. Enjoy!
