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
Scale
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.
