Favorite Scones
Fluffy, buttery scones with a tender crumb and subtle sweetness, perfect for breakfast or tea time, appealing to both casual bakers and brunch enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
- Use a pastry blender or two knives to cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a small bowl, beat together the buttermilk and egg.
- Pour the buttermilk and egg mixture over the dry ingredients and stir with a fork until the mixture comes together.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead 5 or 6 times.
- Transfer the dough to a greased cookie sheet.
- Pat the dough into an 8-inch circle and cut into 8 wedges or use a biscuit cutter.
- Bake in a 425°F oven for 14 to 16 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding dried fruits, such as cranberries or raisins, to the dough. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Be careful not to over-knead the dough, as this can make the scones tough. For a bit of sweetness, brush the tops with a mixture of melted butter and sugar before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these scones warm with butter, jam, or clotted cream for a delightful treat at breakfast or tea time. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a more substantial meal, consider serving them alongside a fresh fruit salad or scrambled eggs. They also make a great companion to dishes like Grandpa'S Spinach Dip at a brunch gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favorite Scones contains roughly 261 calories, with 3g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of calcium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1164mg per serving (51% 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 be sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out. When you're ready to bake, simply roll it out and cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter.
What should I do if my scones are too dry?
If your scones turn out dry, it may be due to overmixing or not enough liquid. Consider adding a little more buttermilk, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough reaches the right consistency. Making sure to measure your flour accurately can also help prevent this issue.
Can I add chocolate chips to the scone recipe?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips can be a delicious addition to scones. Simply fold in about 1/2 cup of chocolate chips along with the wet ingredients for a sweet twist. These chocolate chip scones could even be served alongside a festive eggnog for a delightful holiday treat.
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).