Buttermilk scones
These buttermilk scones are easy to make with basic ingredients, yielding tender and flaky treats. The tanginess of buttermilk enhances their flavour, perfect for pairing with jam or cream.
Cook time 12 min
Prep time 12 min
Ingredients:
2 cups self-raising flour1 tbsp sugar
1 dash salt
1/4 cup butter
Scones are a delightful addition to any tea or coffee time, and this basic buttermilk scone recipe is simple yet delicious. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch of tender, flaky scones that will impress your family and friends. Buttermilk adds a tangy richness that sets these scones apart, making them perfect either plain or with your favorite jams and creams.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, combine the 2 cups of self-raising flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and a dash of salt. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Cut the 1/4 cup of butter into small cubes. Add the butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry blender, fork, or your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Make a well in the center of the flour-butter mixture. Pour in the 3/4 cup of buttermilk. Gently mix with a fork or spatula until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently 2-3 times until the dough is smooth. Pat the dough into a round disk about 1-inch thick.
- Use a round biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out scones from the dough. Press down without twisting to ensure the scones rise evenly. Gather any remaining scraps, gently knead together, and cut out more scones.
- Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet about 1-inch apart. Brush the tops lightly with buttermilk if desired for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the scones are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Serve warm with butter, jam, or clotted cream.
Making basic buttermilk scones at home is a breeze with this easy-to-follow recipe. Whether you're enjoying them fresh out of the oven or storing them for a later treat, these scones are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Serve them warm with butter, clotted cream, or jam for a perfect snack or accompaniment to your tea or coffee.
Buttermilk scones FAQ:
Bake the scones in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Scones are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Yes, store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped in plastic and placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
If you don't have buttermilk, you can create a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 3/4 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
If the dough is too sticky, try adding a little more self-raising flour, a tablespoon at a time, while mixing gently until it reaches a workable consistency.
Tips:
- Keep your ingredients cold, especially the butter and buttermilk. Cold butter creates steam as the scones bake, leading to a flakier texture.
- Handle the dough as little as possible to ensure your scones stay tender. Overworking the dough can make the scones tough.
- Use a sharp cutter to cut out the scones. Press down firmly without twisting to help them rise evenly and avoid ending up with slanted sides.
- Brush the tops with buttermilk or an egg wash before baking to achieve a golden-brown finish.
- Serve the scones warm for the best texture and flavor. If you're storing them, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving to restore their freshness.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 390kcal
Protein 9g
Carbohydrates 60g
Fiber 2.25g
Sugar 4.02g
Fat 13g
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