If you’ve ever fancied a warm, flaky scone fresh out of the oven, then this classic scone recipe is just what you need! With the perfect balance of crisp edges and a soft, tender middle, these homemade scones are a delightful treat for breakfast, brunch, or even an afternoon snack. They’re customizable too—so feel free to add your favorite fruits, nuts, or a luscious glaze to elevate your baking game!
Budget Information
The total cost of this scone recipe is approximately $6.50, which breaks down to about $0.81 per serving (assuming you cut them into 8 pieces). Here’s the cost breakdown:
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): $0.40
- Sugar (1/4 cup): $0.10
- Baking powder (1 tbsp): $0.15
- Salt (1 tsp): $0.05
- Cold butter (1/2 cup): $1.00
- Heavy cream (3/4 cup): $1.50
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): $0.50
- Egg (optional): $0.20
- Add-ins (such as berries, optional): $2.00
Why This Recipe Works
This scone recipe works beautifully because it relies on a few fundamental baking principles that ensure a tender, flaky texture. The cold butter is cut into the flour, creating little pockets of steam during baking, which leads to that coveted flakiness. Using heavy cream adds richness and moisture, while baking powder gives the scones a nice lift. Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable—whether you want to enjoy them sweet with jam or savory with cheese, the sky’s the limit!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need for these scrumptious scones:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – $0.40 (You can swap this with cake flour for lighter scones.)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – $0.10 (Feel free to use a sugar substitute if you want to cut calories.)
- 1 tbsp baking powder – $0.15
- 1 tsp salt – $0.05 (Kosher salt works wonderfully.)
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed – $1.00 (Use high-quality butter for best results.)
- 3/4 cup heavy cream – $1.50 (Buttermilk can be used for savory scones.)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – $0.50 (Homemade is even better!)
- 1 large egg (optional) – $0.20 (It adds richness!)
- Add-ins (chocolate chips, nuts, fruits) – $2.00 (Customize as you like!)
Vanilla Bean Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup confectioner’s sugar – $0.60
- 2 tbsp heavy cream – $0.25
- 1 tsp vanilla bean paste (or extra vanilla extract) – $0.50
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: First things first, we need to preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your scones don’t stick. This is where the magic happens!
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until nicely combined. This is your dry mix, which will act as the base of your scone goodness. Next, take your cold, cubed butter and add it to the bowl. Using a pastry blender (or your fingers if you’re feeling adventurous), cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs, with some pieces as big as peas. This step is crucial for achieving that flaky texture we love!
Step 3: Now, let’s bring it all together! Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract just until the dough starts to come together. If you’re adding an egg or those delicious add-ins, toss them in now. It’s a bit messy, but get those hands in there and press the dough until it holds together. If it’s too crumbly, add a touch more cream until it cooperates.
Step 4: Lightly flour your countertop and pour the dough out onto it. Flatten it into a round disc about 1 inch thick. You can use your rolling pin if you want to get fancy, but patting it down works just fine.
Step 5: Use a sharp knife or a biscuit cutter to cut the dough into equal wedges or rounds. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space in-between. Brush the tops with leftover cream or melt a little butter for an extra golden touch. If you’re feeling bold, sprinkle some additional sugar on top for a sweet crunch!
Step 6: Bake your scones in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they’re lightly golden brown. As they bake, your kitchen will start to smell heavenly—trust me, it’s hard to wait! Once they’re finished, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 7: While those delightful scones are cooling, let’s whip up that luxurious vanilla glaze! In a medium bowl, whisk together the confectioner’s sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla bean paste until you get a smooth and drizzly consistency. Drizzle the glaze generously over your scones while they’re still warm.
Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or let them cool completely under a cake dome for later. Each bite will transport you to scone heaven!
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 336 kcal
Protein: 3 g
Carbohydrates: 52 g
Total Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 250 mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
These scones are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, pop them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Want to make a big batch? Freeze them for up to 3 months! To freeze, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply thaw and pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
These scones are perfect for a casual brunch or an afternoon tea! Serve them with a dollop of clotted cream and a dollop of jam for a classic experience. They also pair beautifully with fresh fruit, a drizzle of honey, or even some honey butter. Don’t forget a nice cup of tea or coffee to wash it all down!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Don’t worry if you don’t have a pastry blender; your fingers work just as well for cutting the butter into your flour! Just make sure to keep the butter cold to maintain that coveted flakiness. Also, if you happen to have leftover scones, try reheating them with a pat of butter for an indulgent treat. Your kitchen will thank you for the warm, buttery aroma!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make these scones ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, cut the scones, and freeze them raw. Just bake when you’re ready to enjoy them!
What’s the best way to store leftover scones?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier scone.
What can I add to the scone mix?
The possibilities are endless! You can add dried fruits, chocolate chips, nuts, or even cheese and herbs for a savory twist!
Why did my scones turn out hard?
If they’re tough, it could be that the dough was overworked. Mix just until combined for best results!
