Buttermilk Scones Recipe

Introduction

Buttermilk scones are a classic treat that combines a tender, flaky texture with a subtle tang from the buttermilk. Perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea, these scones are quick to prepare and delightfully comforting.

Ingredients

• 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 0.33 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• 1 cup cold buttermilk
• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Step 3: Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Step 4: Pour in the cold buttermilk and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
5. Step 5: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 0.75-inch thick disc.
6. Step 6: Cut the disc into 8 wedges using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter.
7. Step 7: Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, then brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish.
8. Step 8: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and cooked through.
9. Step 9: Let the scones cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to finish cooling.

Tips & Variations

• Use very cold butter to ensure a flaky texture; you can even chill the flour and bowl before mixing.
• For added flavor, stir in 1/2 cup of dried fruit like currants or blueberries before baking.
• Brush with cream or milk instead of egg wash for a softer crust.
• Serve warm with clotted cream and jam for a traditional touch.

Storage

Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, freeze baked scones in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in a warm oven or toaster oven until warmed through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar per cup to mimic buttermilk’s acidity, which helps tenderize the scones.

How do I make the scones more tender?

Handle the dough gently and avoid overmixing to prevent toughness. Also, keeping ingredients cold and using cold butter helps create a tender, flaky texture.

Buttermilk Scones Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 357 reviews

Delight in these classic buttermilk scones that are tender, flaky, and lightly sweetened. Perfect for breakfast or tea time, this recipe uses cold butter and buttermilk to create a soft crumb with a golden crust. Simple ingredients come together quickly with minimal effort for a delightful homemade treat.

• Author: Jeannette
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
• Total Time: 25-28 minutes
• Yield: 8 scones 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 0.33 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• 1 cup cold buttermilk
• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow even baking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasonings.
3. Cut in Butter: Incorporate the cold, cubed butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, ensuring flaky texture.
4. Add Buttermilk and Combine Dough: Pour in the cold buttermilk and gently mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the scones light and tender.
5. Shape Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 0.75-inch thick disc, being careful not to compress it too much.
6. Cut into Wedges: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough disc into 8 evenly sized wedges for uniform baking.
7. Apply Egg Wash: Place the scone wedges on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with the beaten egg to achieve a golden, shiny crust.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and cooked through.
9. Cool: Allow the scones to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely or serve warm.

Notes

• Use cold butter and buttermilk straight from the fridge to achieve flaky layers.
• Do not overmix the dough to avoid tough scones.
• For variation, add dried fruits like currants or raisins, or a handful of fresh herbs.
• Scones are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat scones briefly in a warm oven or toaster oven for the best texture.

Keywords: buttermilk scones, homemade scones, breakfast scones, flaky scones, easy scone recipe