Simple Scone Recipe

Introduction

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter to the bowl and use your hands or a pastry cutter to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently until it comes together.
7. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick and cut it into 8 wedges.
8. Place the wedges onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a few inches between each one.
9. Bake the scones for 15-20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown on top.
10. Remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition

Per serving:

• Calories: 270
• Total fat: 13g
• Saturated fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 57mg
• Sodium: 378mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 33g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 5g

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Add the Butter

Add the cold, unsalted butter to the dry ingredients and use your hands or a pastry cutter to work it into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 5: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix the dough.

Step 6: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently until it comes together.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick and use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut it into 8 wedges.

Step 8: Bake the Scones

Place the wedges onto the lined baking sheet, leaving a few inches between each one. Bake the scones for 15-20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown on top.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips and Tricks

Tip 1: Keep the Butter Cold

It is important to use cold butter for this recipe, as it helps create the flaky texture that scones are known for. If the butter starts to soften while you are mixing the dough, simply pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes to firm up again.

Tip 2: Don't Overmix the Dough

Overmixing the dough can lead to tough, dense scones. Mix the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined, and then stop. The dough should be shaggy and not completely smooth.

Tip 3: Customize Your Scones

Feel free to add other ingredients to the dough, such as dried fruit, chocolate chips, or nuts. You can also brush the tops of the scones with cream or egg wash before baking to give them a shiny finish.

Tip 4: Store Leftover Scones Correctly

Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze scones for up to 3 months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to make a simple scone recipe, you can enjoy this classic British treat anytime you want. With just a few basic ingredients and a little bit of know-how, you can whip up a batch of delicious scones that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a mid-day snack. So why not give this recipe a try and see for yourself just how easy and tasty homemade scones can be?