Can I make the scone dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough, cut the scones, and then refrigerate them for up to 12 hours before baking.
BREAKFAST
Classic English Scones with Clotted Cream and Strawberry Jam
Indulge in a quintessential English breakfast experience with these light, fluffy scones. Perfectly paired with rich clotted cream and sweet strawberry jam, they are ideal for a leisurely morning or an elegant afternoon tea.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar.
02
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use your fingertips or a pastry blender to rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
03
Gradually add the milk, mixing with a fork until a soft, shaggy dough forms. Do not overmix.
04
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick circle. Use a 2-inch round cutter to cut out scones. Reroll scraps gently and cut more scones.
05
Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
06
Bake at 400°F/200°C for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through.
07
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly on a wire rack before serving warm with clotted cream and strawberry jam.
About This Recipe
Indulge in a quintessential English breakfast experience with these light, fluffy scones. Perfectly paired with rich clotted cream and sweet strawberry jam, they are ideal for a leisurely morning or an elegant afternoon tea.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For extra flaky scones, ensure your butter is very cold. Avoid twisting the scone cutter when pressing down, as this can seal the edges and prevent them from rising properly. For a richer flavor, you can substitute buttermilk for whole milk.
Easy Substitutions
If clotted cream is unavailable, a mixture of whipped heavy cream and cream cheese can be a decent substitute. Any fruit jam can be used in place of strawberry jam. For a dairy-free option, use plant-based milk and vegan butter, and omit the clotted cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in a microwave or oven for best results. Scones can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw and reheat before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm scones with a generous dollop of clotted cream and a spoonful of strawberry jam. They are perfect alongside a cup of hot English breakfast tea or coffee. For a special occasion, add a side of fresh berries. Enjoy them as part of a traditional afternoon tea spread.
Common Mistakes
1. Overmixing the dough: This leads to tough scones. Mix just until combined. 2. Using warm butter: Cold butter is crucial for flaky layers. 3. Twisting the cutter: Press straight down and lift to ensure an even rise. 4. Not brushing with egg wash: This gives the scones their golden, shiny top. 5. Baking at too low a temperature: Scones need a hot oven to rise quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is clotted cream?
Clotted cream is a thick, rich cream made by indirectly heating full-cream cow's milk using steam or a water bath and then leaving it in shallow pans to cool slowly.
Why are my scones not rising?
This could be due to old baking powder, overmixing the dough, or not using cold enough butter. Ensure your ingredients are fresh and follow the steps carefully.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to light and airy scones is minimal handling of the dough. Overworking the dough develops the gluten, resulting in tough scones. Work quickly to keep the butter cold, which creates steam pockets during baking for a flaky texture. A light touch is essential for perfect scones every time. You can also add dried fruit like currants or raisins to the dough for a variation.
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