Sourdough Scones
Sourdough scones offer a delightful twist on traditional baked treats, with a tangy flavor from the sourdough starter complemented by citrus zest and dried currants. Their tender crumb and slightly crisp exterior make them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or teatime, appealing to those who love flavorful, homemade baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, 3 tablespoons sugar, baking powder, baking soda, grated orange peel, grated lemon peel, and currants.
- With a pastry blender, work in the cold butter until fine crumbs form.
- Add the sourdough starter; stir with a fork until the dough holds together.
- Form the dough into a ball and knead briefly, only until ingredients are combined.
- Cut the dough into two equal parts; shape each into a ball.
- Flatten each ball into a 5-inch circle, leaving the dough slightly higher in the center.
- Cut each circle into 6 wedges.
- Sprinkle the scones with the remaining tablespoon of sugar.
- Place the scones on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake in the middle of a preheated 375°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, make sure to work the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs. You can substitute currants with raisins or chocolate chips for a different flavor. If you don't have sourdough starter, a yogurt or buttermilk mix can work in a pinch, but it will change the flavor profile slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these scones warm with butter or a dollop of clotted cream. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for brunch or a cozy afternoon snack. For an extra treat, consider serving alongside Chocolate-Orange Sodas for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze 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 Sourdough Scones contains roughly 78 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 573mg per serving (25% 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 use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
Yes, you can replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the scones may be denser. A mix of both flours, as listed, yields the best texture. If you prefer a heartier scone, increase the whole wheat flour to 1 cup and reduce the all-purpose flour accordingly.
What can I add to the scone mixture for extra flavor?
You can add chopped nuts, dried fruits like apricots or cranberries, or even chocolate chips to the dough for extra flavor. Just make sure to adjust the dry ingredients slightly if adding a significant amount of extra ingredients to maintain the right dough consistency.
How do I know when the scones are done baking?
The scones are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. They should feel firm to the touch but still slightly soft. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
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).