Simple Scones are a delightful treat that are easy to make and perfect for breakfast, tea time, or as a sweet snack. These buttery, tender scones come together quickly using basic ingredients like flour, butter, sugar, and milk. With their slightly crumbly texture and subtly sweet flavor, they pair beautifully with jam, clotted cream, or a cup of tea. Whether you enjoy them plain or with added fruit like raisins or cranberries, these simple scones are versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2/3 cup whole milk (or heavy cream)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 egg (for brushing, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: Pour in the milk and vanilla extract (if using). Stir gently with a spoon until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be a little sticky but firm enough to handle.
- Shape the Scones: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick round. Use a sharp knife or a scone cutter to cut the dough into 8 wedges.
- Bake the Scones: Arrange the scones on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. If desired, brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the scones cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm with butter, jam, or clotted cream.
These Simple Scones are quick to prepare, requiring only a few ingredients and a short bake time, making them perfect for any occasion. Their light, flaky texture and buttery taste will have you reaching for more!
