Traditional English Scones: recipes and baking tips

Scones are a staple of British afternoon tea, but have you ever wondered what makes them so irresistibly light and fluffy? Whether you prefer them sweet with jam and clotted cream or savoury with cheese and herbs, mastering scone-making can elevate your home baking game. In this article, we’ll uncover expert baking tips, delicious variations, and the secret to achieving that perfect golden crust.

Scones @lubnaskitchen / My Greek Yoghurt Scones @cook_111394786 / Scones with raisins @toader

What Makes a Classic English Scone?

English scones are distinct from their American counterparts. They are lightly sweetened, have a soft, crumbly texture, and are traditionally round, rather than wedge-shaped. The ingredients are simple—flour, butter, milk, a touch of sugar, and a leavening agent—but the method is what makes them special.

Queen Elizabeth II’s Drop Scones& 1/2 cups Plain Flour *1 cup is 250ml, Caster Sugar, Milk, large Egg, Bi-Carbonate Soda

The Secret to Soft and Fluffy Scones

✔ Cold butter is key – Just like with pastry, cold butter creates a flaky, airy texture. Try grating it into the flour for even distribution. ✔ Minimal mixing – Overworking the dough can make scones tough. Mix just until combined. ✔ Rolling, not pressing – Roll the dough gently to about 2 cm (¾ inch) thick before cutting to get that signature rise. ✔ High heat for a quick rise – Baking at 220°C (425°F) ensures a beautifully risen, golden scone.

Herb, Cheese, Nuts and Seed SconesSelf-raising Flour, Cold, Cubed Butter, Chopped Sage, Chopped Rosemary, Milk

Popular Scone flavours to try

If you want to go beyond the classic plain scone, here are some delicious ideas: Fruit Scones – Add raisins, currants, or dried cranberries for a touch of natural sweetness.

🍇🍊🥞Fruit Scones🥞🍊🍇⏱ 10-15minself-raising flour, milk, cold butter or margarine, caster or fine sugar, baking powder

Chocolate Chip Scones – A treat for chocolate lovers, perfect with a cup of coffee.

Sweet Potato Scones w/ Chocolate Chips. 1 1/2 cups cashews, . 1/4 cup chickpea flour, . 2 tsp baking powder, . 1 tsp cinnamon, . 1/4 tsp nutmeg

Lemon & Poppy Seed Scones – A fresh, zesty twist for spring and summer.

Honey & Almond Scones – Nutty and slightly sweet, perfect with a drizzle of warm honey.

CookEveryPart Spelt Pumpkin Scones⏱ 15 minswhole meal spelt flour, gf white self raising flour, baking powder, soft brown sugar, salt

Cheese Scones – Sharp cheddar or parmesan makes them perfect for pairing with soups.

Herb & Garlic Scones – A great alternative to bread for dinner.

Wild garlic and cheese scones⏱ 20 minself raising flour, butter, grated strong cheese - I used a dried sheep ricotta, beaten egg - some to combine, some to wash the scones before baking, milk

How do you serve Scones the traditional way?

A freshly baked scone is best enjoyed warm with clotted cream and jam. But should the jam go on first or the cream? This long-debated question divides the UK: in Cornwall, jam is spread first, followed by cream, while in Devon, it’s the opposite. Whichever way you choose, the result is always delicious!

For a more modern approach, try pairing scones with flavoured butters, fruit curds, or even Nutella for a decadent twist.

Next Level Scone Loafstrong white bread flour, unsalted butter, cut into cubes & softened, caster sugar, medium eggs, lightly beaten, baking powder

Can you make Scones without dairy?

Yes! You can substitute butter with plant-based alternatives like coconut oil or vegan margarine, and use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk. Many bakers also replace eggs with mashed banana or apple sauce for a soft texture.

Vegan Scones⏱ 45min prep 20 min bakingself raising and a little extra for dusting, baking powder, salt, vegan vegetable spread, almond milk and a little extra for glazing

Baking scones at home is easy and rewarding, whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with new flavours. Which type of scone is your favourite?☕

Find all our Scones recipes on Cookpad:

SconesHuge variety of great Scones recipes published by home cooks like you!

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