English Raisin Scones
Delicious English raisin scones with tender crumb and sweet raisins, perfect for breakfast or teatime, offering a buttery, fruity flavor that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and baking soda into a bowl.
- Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
- Add buttermilk and raisins and stir until well blended.
- Divide the dough into 3 parts.
- On a floured surface, roll each part into a circle about 1/3-inch thick.
- Cut each circle into 5 wedges.
- Place the wedges on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg white.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try substituting some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. If you don't have buttermilk, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes. Ensure your shortening is cold for flakier scones, and be careful not to overwork the dough to keep them tender.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these English Raisin Scones warm with clotted cream and jam for a traditional touch. They pair wonderfully with tea or could be enjoyed alongside a fruity Cherry Yogurt Smoothies for a delightful breakfast. For a more substantial meal, consider serving them with a light salad or fruit platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To maintain their freshness, you can also freeze them. Reheat frozen scones in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of English Raisin Scones contains roughly 99 calories, with 3g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 978mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just remember to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before rolling and cutting for best results.
How do I know when the scones are done baking?
The scones are done when they turn a golden brown color and have risen nicely. You can also tap the bottom of a scone; it should sound hollow. Keep an eye on them during baking to avoid overcooking, as they can dry out quickly.
Can I add other ingredients to the scones?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or nuts to the dough for a different flavor profile. Just keep an eye on the moisture level, as additional ingredients can alter the texture. These variations can make your scones even more delightful.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).