Can I make these scones ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and cut the scones, then freeze them unbaked. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
BREAKFAST
Irish Soda Bread Scones with Whiskey Marmalade
These delightful scones combine the rustic charm of Irish soda bread with the tender texture of a scone, perfectly complemented by a zesty homemade whiskey marmalade. It's a unique and flavorful twist on a classic Irish breakfast item.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
02
Cut in 1/4 cup of cold unsalted butter using your fingertips or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
03
Pour in 3/4 cup of buttermilk and mix gently with a fork until just combined. Do not overmix; the dough will be slightly sticky.
04
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick round. Use a 2-inch round cutter to cut out 8 scones. Reroll scraps once if necessary.
05
Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
06
While the scones bake, combine 1/2 cup of orange marmalade and 2 tablespoons of Irish whiskey in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed and slightly thinned.
07
Remove scones from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm with the whiskey marmalade.
About This Recipe
These delightful scones combine the rustic charm of Irish soda bread with the tender texture of a scone, perfectly complemented by a zesty homemade whiskey marmalade. It's a unique and flavorful twist on a classic Irish breakfast item.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For extra flavor, you can add 1/4 cup of raisins or dried cranberries to the scone dough along with the dry ingredients. Ensure your buttermilk is fresh for the best rise.
Easy Substitutions
If you don't have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 3/4 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 3/4 cup of regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes. For the marmalade, any citrus marmalade can be used, and brandy or rum can substitute for whiskey.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The whiskey marmalade can be stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Irish Soda Bread Scones warm with a generous dollop of the whiskey marmalade. They are perfect alongside a strong cup of Irish breakfast tea or coffee. For a heartier breakfast, pair them with scrambled eggs and a side of Irish bacon. They also make a lovely addition to a brunch spread.
Common Mistakes
Overmixing the dough: This will result in tough, dense scones. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined. Using warm butter: Warm butter melts into the flour too quickly, leading to a less flaky texture. Ensure your butter is very cold. Not cutting the scones evenly: Unevenly sized scones will bake at different rates, leading to some being overcooked and others undercooked. Overcooking the scones: This can dry them out. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as they are golden brown.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of whiskey should I use?
Any Irish whiskey you enjoy drinking will work well. A mid-range whiskey is perfect for this recipe.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
While not tested, you could try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary. Ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for structure.
Why is baking soda used instead of baking powder?
Baking soda reacts with the acidity in the buttermilk to create lift, which is characteristic of soda bread.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to tender scones is minimal handling of the dough. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tougher texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, and pat the dough gently rather than kneading. The cold butter is also crucial as it creates pockets of steam during baking, resulting in a flaky interior. For the whiskey marmalade, heating it gently helps to meld the flavors and slightly reduce the alcohol, leaving a pleasant warmth.
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