Scones recipe

Scones are a classic British baked good, enjoyed both plain or with additions like dried fruit or nuts. Here’s a basic recipe for traditional British scones

Ingredients:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup (75g) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk (plus extra for brushing)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1/2 cup (75g) raisins or currants (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in butter: Add the cold butter pieces to the dry ingredients. Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to quickly rub or cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Work quickly to keep the butter cold.
4. Add wet ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the milk and vanilla extract (if using). Gradually add this mixture to the flour mixture, stirring with a fork until the dough just comes together. If using raisins or currants, gently fold them into the dough.
5. Shape the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead the dough a few times until it holds together. Pat the dough into a circle about 3/4 to 1 inch (2-2.5 cm) thick.
6. Cut out scones: Using a floured round cutter (about 2.5 inches in diameter), cut out scones from the dough. Press straight down with the cutter and avoid twisting, which can affect the rise of the scones.
7. Bake: Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of the scones lightly with milk.
8. Bake the scones: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the scones are lightly golden on top.
9. Cool and serve: Remove the scones from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm with clotted cream and jam, if desired.

Enjoy your freshly baked scones with a nice cup of tea or coffee!