Mouthwatering Recipe: English Scones with Clotted Cream
Listen up, my fellow foodies! I have got a classic recipe for you that will transport you straight to the heart of Britain – Very English Scones! Ah, the smell of the freshly baked scones, and the rich taste that melts in your mouth is what makes them a firm favorite among the British. And let me tell you, as a chef specializing in British cuisine, I have mastered the art of baking these beauties to perfection.
These are no ordinary scones. Oh no, these British-style scones bake up light and fluffy on the inside and golden brown on the outside. Perfectly flaky with tender crumb and buttery flavor, they make a fabulous afternoon tea treat or breakfast delight. And they are incredibly easy to whip up. So don’t wait any longer; grab your apron and preheat your oven because it’s time for us to bake some authentic Very English Scones together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Have you ever craved something comforting and tasty to pair with your afternoon tea? Look no further than classic English scones, the perfect indulgence for any tea time.
But not just any scones – this recipe takes it up a notch. With a soft and fluffy texture on the inside and a slightly crunchy exterior, these British scones are perfect in every way. They’re made with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry, such as self-raising flour, baking powder, salt, unsalted butter, caster sugar, milk and an egg.
What makes these scones even more special is the addition of currants or raisins for natural sweetness or chocolate chips if you feel like indulging yourself. You can also serve them with some comforting jam and clotted cream to boost your sweet tooth cravings. Trust us when we say that your taste buds will be thanking you.
These scones are also incredibly easy to make, whether it’s your first time in the kitchen or not. They come together in less than 30 minutes from start to finish! So why not impress your family and friends by making them an authentic taste of Britain? These scones are sure to be crowd-pleasers at any gathering.
In summary, whether it’s for high tea at Buckingham Palace or simply a cozy treat at home, this is one recipe that you’ll want to keep within reach. Try out our classic English scones recipe today and find out why it’s become a staple for Queen Elizabeth herself!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make Classic English Scones:
Dry ingredients
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons of baking powder
- 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
Cold fats
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (cold)
- 1 egg
Wet ingredients
- 3/4 cup of whole milk, plus a little extra for glazing the scones
Optional ingredient:
- 1/2 cup of currants, raisins, sultanas, or chocolate chips
These ingredients are the basis for a classic English scone recipe that can be enjoyed with your favorite tea or as part of an afternoon tea service.
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have the perfect ingredients, let me show you how to bring them all together. This recipe has been passed down through generations of British home bakers and is a tried and true classic English scones recipe fit for Buckingham Palace.
Preparation
Start by preheating your oven to 220°C or 425°F. Make sure that your oven is preheated before placing the scones, as the high temperature helps them to rise and quickly form a crust.
Then, sift together 2 cups of self-raising flour, 4 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ tsp of salt, and 3 tbsp caster sugar into a large mixing bowl. Ensure that all the ingredients are well combined.
Next, add in 6 tablespoons of cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes, and rub it between your fingertips with the flour mixture until it becomes coarse crumbs.
Adding Liquid Ingredients
Create a well in the center of your dry mix, add one beaten egg and pour in approximately half a cup of whole milk. The amount of milk added should be just enough to make a soft dough. Reserve some milk for brushing on top of the scones later.
Making Dough
Use a fork to gently bring together the ingredients until they form a soft, slightly sticky dough.
Then you can take your scone dough out onto a floured surface and knead it gently into shape. It’s important not to overwork the dough as this can make it tough – just fold it over itself a few times until it comes together.
Shaping Scones
Pat down your dough to about 2cm thickness and use your scone cutter (around 5cm) to cut out circles of dough.
Place each one onto a lightly floured baking tray and brush with some extra milk for golden tops. Don’t forget to dust with some extra flour if you like your scones crispier.
Baking
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden on top. The British scones should rise beautifully and have a slightly crunchy surface, while still being fluffy and light inside.
Take them out of the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes on a wire rack.
And there you have it! Your very own batch of classic English scones perfect for a high tea party, afternoon tea or breakfast with some jam and clotted cream.
Substitutions and Variations
There are a few substitutions and variations you can try to make your English scones even more delightful. One of the most common substitutions is to use margarine instead of butter. While butter adds a rich flavor, using margarine can make the scones more flaky.
Another substitution you can try is using different mix-ins. Sultanas, raisins, and currants are classic British ingredients that can give your scones a sweet and chewy texture. However, if you want a more indulgent treat, try using chocolate chips instead.
For a healthier option, you could also use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This will add a nuttier taste and a heartier texture to your scones. You can also substitute some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
If you want to vary the flavor in your scones, try adding some grated lemon or orange zest to the dough, or mix in some spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra kick. You could even make savory scones by adding shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or bacon bits.
Whatever substitutions or variations you choose, be creative and experiment until you find the perfect balance of ingredients for your tastes.
Serving and Pairing
Now, let me tell you how to serve and pair these classic English scones once they are out of the oven. First things first, you want to serve them warm. This will bring out the fluffiness and delicate texture of the scone.
One traditional way to serve English scones is for afternoon tea or high tea. In this case, the scone should be sliced in half horizontally and traditionally spread with clotted cream followed by a generous spoonful of jam. This is what is known as “jam first” approach.
Another option is to enjoy them plain or topped with butter or margarine if you prefer. You can also add raisins, currants, sultanas or even chocolate chips when making the dough to give them a sweet twist.
For pairing options, I highly suggest brewing a hot pot of your favorite tea to complement your English scone. Many people often drink black tea such as Earl Grey or English Breakfast with their scone. Another popular pairing is coffee or hot cocoa for those who prefer a more comforting beverage.
You can make these scones for any occasion but I guarantee that they will make you feel like you are in Buckingham Palace enjoying an afternoon tea with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II herself!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
As a chef, I understand that scones are best when they are freshly baked and warm. However, with the bustling nature of modern life, it can be difficult to prepare them just before serving. Fear not! This recipe is perfect for make-ahead preparations.
To make your scones in advance, simply follow the recipe instructions up to the point where you would normally put them in the oven. At this stage, instead of baking them, cover the scone dough tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. The unbaked dough can be kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
When you’re ready to bake your scones, preheat your oven and remove the dough from the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before slicing it into rounds with a sharp knife. Once sliced, arrange them onto a lined baking tray and bake according to the recipe instructions.
If you find yourself with leftover scones that you don’t wish to eat in one sitting, there are options for storing them. To keep them fresh, store your scones in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap your scones tightly in aluminum foil and freeze them for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen scones or leftovers, simply thaw them at room temperature and then warm them up briefly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until they’re heated through.
Remember that while reheating will warm up your scones nicely, nothing compares to freshly-baked ones. So whenever possible try making your scones right before serving so that you can enjoy that delightful aroma and taste of fresh-out-of-the-oven scones.
Tips for Perfect Results
To make the perfect English scones, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind as you bake. These tips will ensure that your scones come out just right, with a nice fluffy texture and delicious flavor.
Firstly, it is important to use cold butter when making the dough. This makes it easier to cut the butter into small pieces and ensures that the scones come out light and flaky. If you are in a rush and don’t have time to chill the butter in the fridge before using, try grating it instead. Grated butter will quickly blend into the flour mixture without making the dough too warm.
Another tip is to handle the dough as little as possible. Overworking the dough can cause gluten to develop, which can result in tough, chewy scones. Aim to mix the ingredients together just until they come together and then stop kneading.
When cutting out the scones, make sure to use a sharp cutter and press straight down without twisting it. Twisting the cutter can cause the scones to rise unevenly or flatten out during baking.
To get a beautifully golden top on your scones, brush them with an egg wash before placing them in the oven. This will create a lovely shine and also help keep any toppings (like currants or raisins) in place.
Finally, once your scones are finished baking, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps them hold their shape and allows the flavors to meld together. Pair them with some clotted cream and jam for a classic afternoon tea treat! With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to make perfect English scones every time.
FAQ
As a chef specializing in British cuisine, I know that many questions often arise when it comes to making classic English scones. In this section, I will address the most commonly asked questions about this recipe for Very English Scones. From ingredient substitutions to possible variations and storage recommendations, I’ll make sure you’ve got all the information you need for perfect scones every time. So, let’s jump straight into the FAQ section!
What is the secret to making good scones?
As a British cuisine chef, I’ve learned a few key tips for making the perfect scones. If you want your scones to rise nicely, try using cold or even frozen butter. When it comes to mixing your ingredients together, be careful not to overdo it; mix until the dough is just combined. For the lightest, flakiest scones possible, use pastry flour. And once you’ve shaped your scones, it’s a good idea to chill them in the refrigerator before baking. These small tweaks can make a big difference in the final product.
What is the difference between British and American scones?
When it comes to baked goods from the UK, you can expect their scones to be on the sweeter side and served as a dessert with a side of jam and clotted cream. Meanwhile, American biscuits are more commonly enjoyed with savoury dishes such as chicken, soup or gravy. Additionally, British scone recipes often call for the use of milk instead of cream or buttermilk.
What is Queen Elizabeth’s favorite scone?
The Buckingham Palace has shared the recipe for Queen Elizabeth II’s beloved drop scones, and you wouldn’t believe how simple and effortless they are to make! This delightful recipe calls for just a handful of staple ingredients such as flour, sugar, butter, baking soda, cream of tartar, eggs, and milk, and it comfortably serves sixteen scones.
What kind of scones do the British eat?
Scones are a classic British pastry that are typically served plain or with raisins and sultanas. While they can be paired with a variety of toppings, it is customary to enjoy scones during afternoon tea with clotted cream and strawberry jam.
What are British scones called in America?
In the UK, a popular tea-time treat are scones, which are commonly known as biscuits in the US. It’s essential to have a cup of tea along with these crumbly and delicious cakes, and they are often served with butter, jam, and occasionally clotted cream. It’s worth noting that while the US has a version of biscuits, they are quite different from the UK’s scones.
What is the best flour for scones?
When baking scones, using all-purpose flour will result in a higher rise and sturdier shape both during and after baking. Opting for cake flour, on the other hand, will yield more delicate and lower-rising scones with a cake-like texture. So choose your flour based on the desired outcome of your scone!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this English scones recipe is a classic that will never go out of style. With its simple yet delicious ingredients, it is easy to see why it’s a favorite among the British people and visitors alike. Whether you enjoy them with clotted cream and jam during afternoon tea or on their own as a tasty snack, these scones are sure to satisfy.
When you make this recipe, be sure to follow my tips for perfect results. Use cold butter or margarine, handle the dough gently, and don’t overmix! By following these simple steps, you’ll end up with light, fluffy scones every time.
So why not give this royal English scones recipe a try? I guarantee that once you’ve tasted them, you’ll be hooked for life. So invite your friends over for a high tea experience like no other – complete with clotted cream scones, cucumber sandwiches, and a pot of steaming hot tea. It’s time to enjoy the finer things in life – just like Buckingham Palace and Queen Elizabeth would!
Very English Scones Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces self raising flour
- 1 pinch salt (optional)
- 2 ounces butter or 2 ounces margarine
- 1 ounce caster sugar
- 2 2 ounces dried fruit (chopped if needed) or 2 ounces chocolate chips
- 1 egg, beaten with enough milk to make a 1/4 pint (150ml)
Instructions
- Start heating your oven to 220C, 425F or Gas mark 7 and grease a baking tray (a sheet of grease-proof paper will do the trick).
- Mix the flour and salt.
- Rub in the butter/margarine.
- Stir in the sugar and fruit.
- Add the egg and milk mixture but keep a little to brush on the tops of the scones before baking.
- Knead the dough lightly on a floured surface and roll out to about 1/2 inch (1 cm) thickness.
- Cut into 2 1/2 inch (6.5 cm) rounds.
- Brush the tops with the egg and milk mixture.
- Bake for about 10 minutes.
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.