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perfect scones

Perfect Scones: Buttery, Flaky, and Just the Right Amount of Sweet


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  • Author: Olivia Hartwellen
  • Total Time: 33 minutes
  • Yield: 8 scones 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These perfect scones are buttery, flaky, and just sweet enough. Crisp on the outside and tender in the center, they’re the ultimate breakfast or brunch treat. Whether enjoyed warm with jam and cream or plain right off the tray, this easy scone recipe is a go-to for any cozy morning or elegant gathering. Customizable with your favorite mix-ins, they come together quickly with no mixer required.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

  • 2 teaspoons baking powder

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

  • 1 large egg

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips, dried fruit, chopped nuts, or citrus zest

  • Heavy cream (for brushing)

  • Coarse sugar (for sprinkling)


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

  3. Cut in cold cubed butter using fingers or a pastry cutter until crumbly.

  4. In a separate bowl, whisk cream, egg, and vanilla.

  5. Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir gently until just combined.

  6. Fold in any optional mix-ins.

  7. On a floured surface, pat the dough into a 1-inch thick disc.

  8. Cut into 8 wedges and place on baking sheet.

  9. Brush tops with cream and sprinkle with coarse sugar.

  10. Bake for 14–18 minutes or until golden brown.

  11. Cool 5 minutes on tray, then transfer to a wire rack.

Notes

Keep butter cold throughout the process for best flakiness.

Mix gently to avoid tough scones.

Add orange zest or dip in chocolate for extra flair.

Scones freeze well—bake, cool, and store in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheat in the oven for a freshly baked texture.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Baked Goods
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, British-Inspired