Buttermilk Scones Recipe
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
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)
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Cut into Wedges: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough disc into 8 evenly sized wedges for uniform baking.
- 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.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and cooked through.
- 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