There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked scones wafting through your home. These traditional British treats are the perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee, and can be enjoyed any time of day. But many home bakers struggle to achieve the perfect texture and flavor when making scones. Thankfully, with this foolproof recipe, you can master the art of baking perfect scones in no time.
Scones are a type of quick bread that are typically made with flour, butter, sugar, and milk or cream. The key to making perfect scones lies in the technique and ratio of ingredients. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can create light, flaky scones that are sure to impress your friends and family.
To start, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Cut in 1/2 cup of cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Next, pour in 1/2 cup of milk or cream and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough scones. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a circle that is about 1 inch thick, then use a sharp knife to cut the circle into 8 wedges.
Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one. Brush the tops of the scones with a little bit of milk or cream, and sprinkle with a bit of sugar if desired. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and cooked through.
Once the scones are done baking, allow them to cool slightly before serving. Scones are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
With this foolproof recipe, you can easily master the art of baking perfect scones at home. Whether you enjoy them plain or topped with jam and clotted cream, these scones are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. So grab your apron and get baking – your taste buds will thank you!