Description
A classic of Scottish baking, these quick and easy simple scones are soft, golden, and made with just five everyday ingredients. Perfect for beginners, these buttery treats are ready in under 30 minutes and pair perfectly with jam and cream for an effortless cream tea.
Ingredients
225g self-raising flour (1 3/4 cups)
50g unsalted butter, chilled and diced (3.5 tablespoons)
1 pinch of salt
1 tablespoon caster sugar (13g)
150ml milk (2/3 cup)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, sift together flour, salt, and sugar.
Rub in chilled butter using fingertips until mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
Slowly pour in milk, mixing with a spoon or fork until a soft dough forms.
Turn dough onto a floured surface and gently roll to 2–3 cm thick.
Cut into rounds using a cutter or glass. Place on baking tray.
Brush tops with milk.
Bake for 15 minutes or until tops are golden.
Cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
Use very cold butter for the best texture.
Don’t overwork the dough—handle gently for light scones.
Brushing with milk helps the tops turn golden.
Add-ins like raisins or cheese can be mixed into the dough.
For plain flour substitution: add 2 tsp baking powder per cup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Oven-baked
- Cuisine: Scottish