Scones

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Scones are the perfect blend of crisp and crumbly on the outside, with a soft and airy texture inside. These delightful baked goods are commonly enjoyed with jam, clotted cream, or even a cup of tea. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, enjoying afternoon tea, or craving a simple, comforting treat, scones are an easy and delicious choice. The combination of cold butter, buttermilk, and custard powder gives these scones a rich flavor and light texture that’s hard to beat. These scones can be customized with additions like dried fruit, chocolate chips, or nuts, making them versatile for any occasion. Their buttery aroma as they bake is sure to fill your home with warmth and comfort. Plus, they’re quick and easy to prepare, making them a perfect go-to recipe for busy mornings or special gatherings. The key to a great scone is keeping the ingredients cold and handling the dough as little as possible, which ensures the best texture.

Ingredients (Makes 8-10 scones):

  • 2 cups all-purpose or cake flour
  • 3 tablespoons white sugar
  • ½ cup cold grated unsalted butter (113g)
  • ½ cup buttermilk
  • 3 tablespoons custard powder
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • All ingredients should be cold

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, custard powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk well.
  2. Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingertips until the mixture becomes crumbly.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and vanilla essence. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients.
  4. Mix gently until just combined. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.
  5. Use a rolling pin or your palm to flatten the dough slightly.
  6. Dip your cookie cutter in flour and cut out scones. Place them onto a prepared baking tray.
  7. Brush the tops of the scones with milk or an egg wash.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 18 minutes, or until slightly golden brown on top.

Nutritional Insights & Dietary Considerations:
These scones are rich in carbs and fats, offering a satisfying snack or breakfast. The buttermilk provides a slight tang and tender texture, while the butter contributes to the scones’ richness. The addition of custard powder gives them a unique flavor, but be mindful that they are relatively high in calories and fat. These scones contain dairy and gluten, so they may not be suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or celiac disease. You can modify the recipe by using dairy-free butter and milk to cater to specific dietary needs.

Sharing and Commenting is Caring:
Loved these scones? Share your experience and tips with others in the comments! Your feedback not only helps others try out the recipe but also inspires new ways to enjoy this classic treat. Let’s keep the conversation going and share the love of baking with others!