There is something utterly charming about the humble scone, especially when made using an authentic blueprint handed down from the heart of tradition. The Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe) Recipe is a delightful baked treat that perfectly combines crumbly texture, a subtle sweetness, and a rich buttery flavor, inviting you to experience royal teatime in your very own kitchen. Whether you enjoy them plain, with a dollop of clotted cream, or your favorite jam, these scones promise a classic experience steeped in heritage and deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients come together to create such a timeless treat. Each component plays a starring role, contributing to the texture, flavor, and beautiful golden color that make these scones so memorable.
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The body of the scone providing structure and that perfect tender crumb.
- 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures a rise that is light and fluffy, creating that classic scone height.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness while bringing out the butter’s richness.
- 7 tablespoons cold unsalted butter: Cold butter cut into the flour creates the flaky, crumbly texture scones are known for.
- 1/2 cup sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering.
- 3 eggs (divided): Provides richness and helps with binding the dough together.
- 3/4 cup buttermilk (less 1 tablespoon): Offers a subtle tang and contributes to the tender moisture of the scone.
- Optional: 2/3 cup sultanas or golden raisins: These add bursts of natural sweetness and a hint of chewiness if you like your scones with a little extra character.
How to Make Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sultanas (Optional)
If you decide to include sultanas, start by soaking them in hot water for 20 minutes. This step plumps them up nicely, so they stay juicy and tender rather than drying out during baking. After soaking, drain them well and set aside.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients and Butter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Then cut the cold butter into the mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingertips. Work quickly until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This flaky texture is what gives the scones that coveted lightness.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Buttermilk
In a separate bowl, whisk two eggs with the buttermilk. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients and fold gently to combine. If you’re using sultanas, fold those in at this stage. Be careful not to overmix; you want a dough that just comes together.
Step 4: Knead and Chill the Dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently until smooth – this helps develop a soft, tender crumb without overworking the gluten. Once smooth, wrap the dough and chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes. This rest period firms up the butter again so the scones rise beautifully in the oven.
Step 5: Shape and Cut the Scones
Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Roll out the chilled dough to about 1-inch thickness, then using a round cutter, cut out your scones. Don’t twist the cutter when pressing down, as this can seal edges and prevent a good rise. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving slight spaces between each.
Step 6: Egg Wash and Baking
Brush the tops of the scones with the beaten remaining egg to create a glossy, golden crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the scones are beautifully risen and golden brown on top. The smells at this point are simply irresistible!
How to Serve Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe) Recipe
Garnishes
Traditional scones almost always shine when served warm with fresh clotted cream and strawberry jam. The creamy richness paired with the fruity sweetness perfectly complements the lightly sweet, buttery scone. For a modern twist, you can add lemon curd or honey butter for luscious alternatives.
Side Dishes
A pot of proper English tea is the most fitting accompaniment, whether you fancy a classic Earl Grey, Darjeeling, or a strong Assam. For a heartier teatime spread, consider adding finger sandwiches, cheese, or fresh fruit to round out the experience with contrasting textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a gathering, consider slicing the scones in half and layering with mascarpone cheese and fresh berries for mini scone sandwiches. Serve on a tiered cake stand alongside other petite treats for that quintessential afternoon tea vibe. Wrapping scones in colorful parchment tied with ribbon also makes a beautiful gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover scones stay fresh best when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them from drying out, place a piece of parchment or wax paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked cut scones wrapped tightly on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. When ready, bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Baked scones can also be frozen and reheated later, but the fresh-baked texture is hard to beat!
Reheating
To refresh scones, warm them in a low oven (about 300°F or 150°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaves as they tend to make scones rubbery. Reheated scones regain that lovely just-out-of-the-oven flakiness that makes them so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I make these scones without buttermilk?
Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 3/4 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to curdle before using. This acidic element helps replicate the tenderness and slight tang of buttermilk in the recipe.
What’s the best type of flour to use?
All-purpose flour works perfectly in this recipe, giving you the right balance of lightness and structure. While self-raising flour might seem convenient, it’s best to follow the original recipe with baking powder added separately to control the rise.
Can I add other dried fruits or flavors?
Absolutely! While sultanas are traditional, you can use currants, dried cranberries, or even finely chopped dried apricots. For a savory twist, try diced herbs and cheese instead of fruit – just remember this changes the character of the scones.
Why is the dough chilled before baking?
Chilling the dough firms up the butter again after mixing, which is key for creating that light, flaky texture. It also makes the dough easier to handle and helps the scones hold their shape when baking.
How do I get a tall rise on my scones?
Use cold butter, avoid overworking the dough, and make sure your baking powder is fresh. Cutting the scones with a sharp cutter and placing them close together on the baking sheet helps them rise upward instead of spreading outward.
Final Thoughts
If you’re longing for a taste of classic British baking, the Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe) Recipe offers a wonderful way to bring regal charm to your kitchen counter. These scones are reliable, delicious, and an absolute joy to share with friends or savor during a quiet afternoon tea. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a little slice of tradition with every bite.
Print
Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe) Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 scones
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
Experience the classic taste of traditional English scones made from the official Buckingham Palace recipe. These soft, buttery scones are perfect for afternoon tea and can be enjoyed plain or with juicy sultanas. Featuring a tender crumb and a golden crust, this recipe yields about 12 delicious scones that are easy to make at home.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 7 tablespoons cold unsalted butter
- 3 eggs (divided)
- 3/4 cup buttermilk (less 1 tablespoon)
Optional
- 2/3 cup sultanas or golden raisins
Instructions
- Soak Sultanas: If using sultanas or golden raisins, soak them in hot water for 20 minutes, then drain thoroughly to prepare.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, a pinch of salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together two of the eggs with the buttermilk. Gradually add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the drained sultanas if using.
- Knead and Chill Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Shape into a disk and wrap or cover it, then chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat and Cut: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Roll out the chilled dough to approximately 1 inch thick. Using a round cutter, cut the dough into individual scones.
- Brush and Bake: Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly beat the remaining egg and brush the tops of the scones to give them a shiny finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and risen.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat buttermilk and unsalted butter straight from the fridge.
- Be careful not to over-knead the dough as it can make the scones tough instead of light and fluffy.
- Serving scones warm with clotted cream and strawberry jam is a traditional and delightful way to enjoy them.
- Sultanas are optional; plain scones are equally delicious.
- Allow scones to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
