– Authentic Irish Scone Recipe: Perfect for Brunch!
Dear fellow pastry enthusiasts,
Today, I want to share with you a recipe that has been passed down through generations, a traditional treat that will transport your taste buds to the rolling hills of Ireland. I am talking about none other than Irish Scones!
This delightful pastry is a quick bread that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you are having a cozy brunch with friends or just need a little something to accompany your afternoon tea, these scones are sure to impress.
With their fluffy yet dense texture and bursts of sweetness from the plump raisins, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser. And the best part? You don’t have to be an expert baker to whip up a batch of these delicious scones.
So, let’s gather our ingredients and get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the Emerald Isle with my family’s traditional Irish Scone Recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love a good scone, then my Irish Scone Recipe is one that should definitely grace your kitchen table. Whether you’re serving these warm delights for breakfast, brunch or tea time – this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
But why will you love this recipe? First of all, they’re easy to make. You don’t need to be an experienced baker to get these right. With just a few simple ingredients – flour, baking powder, sugar and unsalted butter – you can whip up a batch of these scones in no time.
Secondly, they’re versatile. Whether you prefer traditional Irish raisin scones or English cheese scones, this recipe allows for plenty of substitutions and variations. You can customize the flavors to suit your preferences and experiment with different add-ins like nuts, chocolate chips or dried fruits.
Finally, their taste is unforgettable. The blend of buttery goodness with just the right amount of sweetness and a hint of salt create a texture that is soft yet crumbly. These scones are great on their own or served warm with some clotted cream or homemade kumquat marmalade.
In short, this recipe offers everything that makes a good scone- a touch of sweetness, an irresistible aroma and the perfect texture. So go ahead and give this recipe a try – I promise it won’t disappoint!
Ingredient List
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All-Purpose Flour 2 cups: Flour is the main ingredient in scones. It gives the scones structure and texture.
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Granulated Sugar 1/4 cup + Additional Sprinkling: Sugar sweetens the dough and helps with browning.
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Baking Powder 2 teaspoons: Baking powder is responsible for the scones’ rise and fluffiness.
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Salt 1/4 teaspoon: Salt enhances the flavor of scones, which may initially seem bland due to its mild taste.
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Unsalted Butter (cold, cut into small pieces) 3/4 cup: Butter makes the scones tender and flaky.
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Milk 1/2 cup: Milk adds moisture to the dough and helps bind the ingredients together.
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Egg 1 large: Egg serves as a binding agent in this recipe, holding together all of the dry ingredients.
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Raisins 1/3 cup: Raisins give an additional sweetness to the scone recipe while adding texture to each bite.
Note: For a more traditional Irish Scone Recipe, substitute milk with buttermilk or cream.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have gone through the ingredients and why you will love this Irish Scone Recipe, it’s time to dive into the recipe instructions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making these delicious scones in your own kitchen.
Preparing the Dough
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In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
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Cut 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter into small pieces, then add it to the bowl with the dry ingredients.
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Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to work in the butter until the mixture is coarse and crumbly, with some larger pieces of butter remaining.
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Stir in 1/3 cup of raisins until they are evenly distributed.
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In a small bowl, whisk together 1 large egg and 3/4 cup of milk.
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Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the egg mixture. Use a fork to stir everything together until a soft dough forms.
Kneading and Baking
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Turn out the dough onto a floured surface and knead it gently for 30 seconds or so, just until it comes together in a smooth ball.
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Pat the dough into a round disc that is about 8 inches wide and 1 inch thick.
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Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then use a sharp knife to score the dough into eight equal wedges.
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Brush the top of scones with some heavy cream or extra milk, then sprinkle with some additional granulated sugar for extra sweetness.
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Bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Serving and Pairing
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Let the scones cool on the baking sheet or a wire rack for a few minutes, then serve them warm with some clotted cream, jam or butter.
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Enjoy your scones with a cup of nice hot tea or coffee.
These Irish Scones are perfect for breakfast, brunch or just as an afternoon snack. They’re also incredibly easy to make and they’re sure to impress your family and friends.
Substitutions and Variations
Scones are a classic tea-time treat and can be customized in numerous ways to provide unique flavor twists. Here are some substitutions and variations to try:
– Raisin-free: If you’re not fond of raisins, leave them out, or substitute with dried cranberries, cherries, or blueberries instead.
– Savory: Looking for a more savory scone? Try replacing sugar with shredded cheddar cheese and adding chopped herbs such as thyme, basil, or rosemary to the dough. Or substitute the raisins with bacon bits or sun-dried tomatoes.
– Whole Wheat: For a healthier option, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. You may need to add an extra tablespoon or two of liquid to make the dough pliable.
– Gluten-Free: If you have gluten intolerance, swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking mix like almond flour, white rice flour, and tapioca starch.
– Add-ins: Scones can be tailored to suit any preferred taste by adding in lots of different mix-ins such as chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruit or even poppy seeds!
– Iced: Classic Irish and Scottish scones often serve plain or with clotted cream and jam. However, a sweet icing can bring the scone to another level. To make your favorite icing without spending too much time measuring ingredients try mixing quickly powdered sugar with cream or milk.
Scones’ versatility make them ideal for any occasion – from breakfast pastries to afternoon snacks. Once you’ve mastered the recipe basics outlined above, feel free to experiment with these substitutions and variations to put your personal touch on this traditional tea-time delicacy!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing your freshly baked Irish scones, there are plenty of options to consider. As scones are traditionally eaten for breakfast or with afternoon tea, you might like to serve them alongside a steaming cup of black tea or coffee.
For an extra treat, Irish scones can be served with a dollop of clotted cream or homemade jam, such as kumquat marmalade. If you prefer a savory option, you could try making cheese scones by adding grated cheddar cheese to the dough before baking.
Another popular accompaniment to scones is whipped cream. This topping pairs particularly well with raisin scones, providing a great balance of sweet and creamy flavors. You can also try serving your scones with fresh berries or other fruit for an added burst of flavor and color.
When it comes to pairings, keep in mind that Irish scones are quite versatile and can be enjoyed with a range of beverages and snacks. For a classic pairing, try serving your scones with a hot cup of tea or coffee. Alternatively, you might like to pair them with a glass of milk or freshly squeezed orange juice for a refreshing breakfast option.
Overall, the perfect pairing for your Irish scones will depend on your personal preferences and the occasion at hand. Whether you opt for sweet or savory toppings, don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own perfect combination.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
The great thing about Irish scones is that they can easily be made ahead of time, stored and reheated for future enjoyment. To make-ahead, you can prepare the dough as instructed and shape the scones on a baking sheet. Then, cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
To store leftover scones, allow them to cool completely first before transferring them to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Scones can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months by placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
When it’s time to reheat your scones, there are a few different methods you can choose from. The first option is to place the scones in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through. Another option is to use a toaster oven, which works great because it reheats quickly and doesn’t dry out the scones. You can also microwave the scones for about 20-30 seconds on high, but just be aware that this method can sometimes make the scones chewy or tough.
Overall, Irish scones are an incredibly versatile baked good that can be enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated to perfection later on. By following these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll always have warm and delicious scones ready whenever you want them!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to making Irish scones, achieving the perfect texture and flavor can be tricky. As a chef specializing in British cuisine, I’ve learned a few tips and tricks that will ensure your scones come out delicious every time.
Firstly, always use cold butter. I know it might seem counterintuitive, but cold butter is actually essential for achieving that flaky, crumbly texture that makes a good scone. When the butter melts while baking, it creates pockets of air which result in a light and airy scone.
Another important tip is to not overwork the dough. Scone dough is delicate and should only be handled as much as necessary. Over-kneading will make the dough tough and result in a dense and heavy scone.
It’s also important to use fresh baking powder. Baking powder loses its effectiveness over time, so using fresh baking powder will ensure that your scones rise properly and achieve their fluffy interior.
Lastly, don’t forget to preheat your oven! A hot oven is crucial for getting that perfect golden-brown crust on your scones. Always preheat your oven to the temperature specified by the recipe for best results.
By following these tips and paying close attention to the details of the recipe, you’ll be able to make beautiful and delicious Irish scones every time.
FAQ
Now, let’s answer some common questions that you may have about these traditional Irish scones. These FAQs will help you avoid the most common mistakes and ensure excellent results in your baking process. So, don’t hesitate to read and follow them closely!
Are scones British or Irish?
The exact country of origin for scones is unknown, but they are a staple in Irish, Scottish, and English cuisine. Historical records suggest that the treat may have originated in Scotland, as the earliest written mention of it is from a Scottish poet in 1513.
What are Irish scones made of?
If you’re looking to whip up a batch of delicious scones, Irish scones might just be what you’re in the mood for. Similar to English scones, they require only a few basic ingredients to create a delightful treat. Flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, butter, and milk are all you need to get started. To add a bit of a twist, you can throw in some currants or raisins. Some bakers even incorporate an egg to enhance the texture and flavor of the dough.
What is the secret to a good scone?
Making perfect scones requires some special attention to certain details. Firstly, to achieve a superior rise, incorporating cold (or even frozen) butter into the dough is the way to go. Secondly, it is suggested not to over-mix the dough while preparing since it can ruin the texture. This means you should only mix until the dough comes together without going that extra mile. Thirdly, to produce the lightest scones, pastry flour is your go-to option. To add, it’s recommended to chill the scones after shaping them right before they go into the oven. Keeping these nifty techniques in mind will help in making the perfect scones.
Are scones Irish or Scottish?
The Scottish ‘bannock’ is believed to be the origin of scones. This traditional cake is made by combining oats and wheat flour to create a thin, round, and flat pastry.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, these traditional Irish scones are a must-try recipe for anyone who loves quick and easy baked goodies. These scones are perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee. They’re fluffy, buttery, and studded with raisins that give them a delightful added sweetness.
Not only are they delicious but they’re also incredibly versatile. You can serve them with clotted cream, homemade jams, or even cheese for a savory twist. Plus, the recipe is so simple you can easily adapt it to make different variations like buttermilk scones or kumquat marmalade scones.
Moreover, this recipe allows for substitutions making it even more convenient for busy bakers. Whether you use milk or cream to bring the dough together or swap raisins for other add-ins like chocolate chips, these scones will turn out great every time.
So why not try this Irish scone recipe for yourself? I guarantee it’ll become a staple in your baking arsenal and a favorite amongst family and friends. With just a few simple ingredients and some easy steps, you’ll have a batch of warm and comforting scones ready to be enjoyed in no time at all.
Irish Scone Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 cups flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon Crisco
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 egg
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
- Sift together flour, sugar, salt, and baking power.
- Rub in the Crisco and add raisins.
- Beat together the milk and eggs and add to the dry.
- Bake at 350°F; the size pan used will determine how long:
- 10 3/4 inch cast iron frying pan: 1 hour.
- 8 inch cake pan: 30-35 minutes.
Nutrition
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Brian is a British chef cum food blogger who has been in the kitchen since he was a young lad. Growing up in Manchester, he developed a passion for cooking and a keen eye for the perfect dish. He now runs his own blog and YouTube channel, which is dedicated to sharing his passion for food with the world.