Delicious Scottish Bran Scones Recipe for Breakfast
Welcome, dear reader, to this recipe for Scottish Bran Scones. As a chef specializing in British cuisine, I know that scones are an essential part of any tea-time spread. But have you ever tried a Scottish bran scone? These scones are not only delicious but also packed with fiber and nutrients from the bran flakes, making them a healthier option for your daily diet.
My love for cooking started at a young age, and I have always been fascinated by the history and traditions behind traditional British recipes. Scottish Bran Scones were first introduced as part of a healthy breakfast meal in Scotland during the 1800s. Since then, they have consistently been enjoyed with tea, served in various combinations of cream and jam.
Today, I will guide you through the steps involved in preparing these mouthwatering treats. I encourage you to have fun during the process and relish the opportunity to create something both wholesome and indulgent. So grab your apron, turn up some cozy tunes, and let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
My dear readers, allow me to regale you with the wonders of a truly marvelous creation – the Scottish Bran Scone. Imagine sinking your teeth into a scone that boasts both rich flavor and wholesome goodness. This scone is not just any ordinary baked good; it is one that combines the traditional flavors of Scotland with modern healthy meals.
Firstly, let us talk about the ingredients. This recipe comprises wheat bran, natural bran, and organic bran, all of which are high in fiber and nutrients essential to maintaining a healthy diet. It also contains self-raising flour, baking powder, sugar, butter, salt, and milk – all of which beautifully complement each other in taste while providing an excellent source of energy for your body.
Moreover, these Scottish Bran Scones are incredibly versatile. You can add any fruit or nuts you prefer to the recipe to make it visually appealing and add extra nutrition to it. You could create oatmeal scones by swapping traditional bran with Scottish oats or try fruit scones by adding your favorite berries into the mix.
These scones are neither too sweet nor too bland – they strike a perfect balance. The natural sweetness from the ingredients and the subtle saltiness epitomize what good food should be: uncomplicated yet sophisticated.
Last but not least, these scones are an ideal choice for breakfast or tea time snacks. They’re simple to prepare: just mix up the ingredients and quickly bake them for a mouth-watering treat in under 20 minutes flat! Enjoy them just as they are or with some jam and cream if you feel more indulgent.
Thus if you’re looking for healthy meals that taste great and require negligible fuss in making, then cast all doubts aside as Scottish Bran Scones is undoubtedly a recipe that will satisfy anyone’s craving! So be sure to give this recipe a test run today; I assure you; it won’t disappoint!
Ingredient List
- 8 ounces self-raising flour
- 1/4 cup wheat bran
- 1/4 cup natural bran
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons caster sugar
- 2 ounces cold butter, cubed
- 7 fluid ounces milk
These simple ingredients make up the base of the Scottish bran scones recipe. They are all easy to find and provide a delicious nutty flavor and texture to the scones. The mix of self-raising flour, wheat bran, and natural bran ensures that these scones are healthy and filling. With just a touch of caster sugar and butter, they are perfectly sweetened without being too rich or overpowering.
The Recipe How-To
Mixing the Dough
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces (226g) self-raising flour, 1/4 cup (25g) wheat bran, 1/4 cup (25g) natural bran, 1 tablespoon (15g) caster sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt.
- Add 2 ounces (56.7g) cold butter (cut into small pieces) and rub it into the dry ingredients using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Make a well in the center of the mixture and pour in 7 fluid ounces (200ml) milk.
- Mix together until it forms a soft dough.
Shaping and Baking
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about 20 seconds.
- Roll out the dough to about 3/4 inch or 2 cm thickness.
- Cut out scones using a cutter of around 2 inches in diameter for regular size scones or any size of your choice depending on how you like them.
- Place onto a greased baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.
These Scottish bran scones are perfect as part of healthy meals or as an afternoon tea snack with a spread of jam and fresh cream!
Substitutions and Variations
Dearest reader, while I firmly believe in the merits of this Scottish Bran Scones recipe as it is written, I understand that one may wish to make a few substitutions or variations depending on their tastes or dietary needs. Fear not, for I shall provide you with some suggestions that may suit your fancy.
Firstly, for those who are looking for a healthier option, you may consider using whole wheat flour instead of self-raising. Additionally, you could use coconut sugar instead of caster sugar and coconut oil or margarine instead of butter. You could also increase the amount of wheat bran or oat bran to add more fiber and nutrients to your scones.
If you prefer a sweeter scone, consider adding dried fruit such as raisins or cranberries into the dough. Alternatively, if you want to keep it savory, try adding some grated cheese or chopped herbs such as rosemary or thyme.
For those who prefer a bit of crunch in their scones, substituting bran flakes instead of wheat bran would be an excellent option. If you have trouble finding Scottish Bran, you can use organic bran instead as it is similar in flavor and nutritional value.
Lastly, for an indulgent twist on this recipe, try topping your scones with whipped cream or honey. You could also serve them alongside jam or curd to make them even sweeter.
Remember, dearest reader, the beauty of cooking lies in its versatility and adaptability. Do not be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own.
Serving and Pairing
A freshly baked Scottish Bran Scone is an excellent breakfast, brunch or teatime accompaniment. As these scones are not too sweet, they go well with a variety of toppings – whether it’s butter and jam or honey and cream. For a savory twist, sliced cheddar cheese or a light spread of tangy cream cheese can elevate this scone into a satisfying snack.
Pairing this scone with a piping hot pot of Scottish tea, such as Earl Grey, is a match made in heaven. The mild wheat taste of the scone is perfectly balanced with the rich herbal flavor of the tea. And for those coffee drinkers out there, a hot cup of fresh brewed coffee can add to the warm comforting feeling that comes from eating this hearty scone.
The Scottish Bran Scone is so versatile that it makes for an excellent side dish with a plate of soup or chili. The nutty bran flakes give these scones their signature crunch and make them the perfect complement to almost any savory meal.
For a delightful dessert pairing, try serving these scones alongside some fresh fruit like sliced berries, peaches or plums. A dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream can turn this humble treat into a full-on dessert experience.
In summary, the Scottish Bran Scone is an ideal addition to any mealtime occasion – whether it’s morning tea or a midnight snack. It’s easy to make and simple to pair with your favorite hot beverage or meal.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Why let the deliciousness of Scottish Bran Scones be limited to just one serving? Make-ahead, store and reheat these scones for a tasty treat anytime.
To make-ahead, prepare the dough and shape it into scones. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. When ready, simply take them out of the fridge 30 minutes before baking, glaze them with a little milk, and bake as directed.
Storing the scones properly will help to maintain their freshness. Allow them to cool down completely before storing them in an airtight container. When stored correctly, they can last up to three days at room temperature.
For reheating, preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cook for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds if you’re short on time but keep in mind that they may lose their crispy exterior when microwaved.
Lastly, I recommend enjoying the Scottish Bran Scones warm from the oven with a pat of butter or your favourite jam. Serve them along with a cup of tea and you are good to go!
Tips for Perfect Results
When making Scottish Bran Scones, it is essential to pay attention to the tips and tricks that will help you achieve the perfect result. Here are some recommendations that I have learned throughout my years of experience as a chef.
Firstly, it is crucial to use cold butter when preparing the dough as this will keep it from becoming too soft and sticky. When cutting in the butter, try using a pastry cutter or two knives to blend it evenly into the flour mixture. You can also use your fingers, but be sure to work quickly as the heat from your hands can melt the butter.
Secondly, don’t over-handle the dough! This will result in tough scones as the gluten in the flour will activate too much. Mix your ingredients until they are just combined and knead only lightly to form each scone into shape. The less you handle them, the better!
Thirdly, ensure that your oven has reached the required temperature before placing your scones inside. It is essential to achieve a hot oven for light and fluffy scones. Covering them with aluminum foil during baking prevents their tops from over-browning while remaining balanced overall.
Fourthly, try adding tasty extras like dried fruit or nuts to give your scones extra flavor and textural complexity. Simply mix them in the dough after adding other ingredients.
Lastly, serve your Scottish Bran scones warm with butter and honey or jam – it’s a classic combination that pleases everyone’s taste buds. They’re best eaten just after baking or later on the same day; otherwise, they’ll get stale.
FAQ
Before you start creating your own Scottish Bran Scones, it’s likely that you have some questions or concerns about the recipe. Fear not, as I’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions and their corresponding answers for your convenience. By knowing the answers to these questions, you can make sure that your baking process is as smooth as possible and that your scones turn out perfectly. So let’s dive in and get all of your important questions answered!
What is the secret to making good scones?
If you want to achieve a higher rise in your scones, try using butter that is cold or even frozen. Remember not to overdo the mixing; just mix enough until the dough has come together. To attain the lightest scones possible, use pastry flour. Before placing them in the oven, chill the shaped scones, as recommended by Youngman.
Are scones Irish or Scottish?
The Scottish ‘bannock’, which is the origin of scones, was a flat and thin cake made using a combination of oats and wheat flour. The word ‘bannock’ is derived from the Gaelic language which means cake.
How do the Scottish eat their scones?
When it comes to scones, there is a difference in the way the English and Scots enjoy them. While the English indulge in scones mainly during teatime, the Scots have them as a staple for different meals throughout the day. They pair scones with midmorning coffee, and enjoy them alongside soup and salad for lunch. Scones also make an appearance during afternoon tea or high tea, and the Scottish even savor them with a glass of wine at the cocktail hour.
Why is cream of tartar used in scones?
Cream of tartar serves multiple purposes in cooking and baking. It can be used to enhance the texture and overall appearance of whipped egg whites, prevent sugar from forming unwanted crystals, and also act as a natural leavening agent for certain baked goods.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, I highly recommend trying this Scottish Bran Scones recipe for a delicious and hearty breakfast or snack. The combination of wheat and natural bran with self-raising flour creates a perfectly balanced texture, while the butter and caster sugar add just the right amount of sweetness. Not only are they easy to make and customizable with various substitutions and variations, but they are also incredibly versatile in terms of serving and pairing options.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal or a indulgent treat, these scones will not disappoint. So why not give it a try? Try making them ahead of time for an on-the-go breakfast, or serve them warm with some jam and whipped cream for a fancy afternoon tea. I guarantee that once you’ve tried these Scottish Bran Scones, you’ll be hooked and want to make them again and again.
So what are you waiting for? Get your ingredients ready and start baking these delicious scones today! And don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family, as nothing beats the joy of sharing good food and recipes with loved ones. Happy baking!
Scottish Bran Scones Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces self raising flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon caster sugar
- 2 tablespoons natural bran
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 ounces butter
- 7 fluid ounces milk
Instructions
- Sieve dry ingredients.
- Mix in butter with a fork.
- Use as much milk as required to make a very soft dough.
- Shape into a thick round.
- Score into a quarter; dust with flour.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes at 170 degrees Celsius.
Nutrition
Recommended Recipes Just For You
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.