Are you craving warm, buttery scones but intimidated by complicated recipes? Then you've come to the right place! This easy scone recipe requires no eggs, making it a perfect quick bread for even the busiest weeknights or a delightful weekend baking project. Forget those complicated, egg-laden recipes; these scones are incredibly simple, yet deliver incredible flavor and texture. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade, fluffy, and utterly delicious scones – without the fuss! This recipe is perfect for beginners practicing easy recipes and for experienced bakers looking for a reliable, healthy meal addition.
Ingredients: You'll need just a few simple pantry staples
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 3/4 cup cold milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- Optional: 1/4 cup raisins, currants, or other dried fruit (for added sweetness and texture)
Instructions: Let's Bake Some Delicious Scones!
Step 1: Prep the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents, resulting in perfectly risen scones.
Step 2: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Work quickly to keep the butter cold; cold butter is key to achieving flaky scones.
Step 3: Add the Milk
Gradually add the cold milk, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Don't overmix! A slightly shaggy dough is perfectly fine. Overmixing develops the gluten, resulting in tough scones.
Step 4: Incorporate Optional Mix-ins
If using, gently fold in the raisins or other dried fruit.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick circle. Use a sharp knife or scone cutter to cut the dough into 8 wedges.
Place the scones onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy!
Let the scones cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. Enjoy them warm, perhaps with a dollop of clotted cream or jam.
Tips for Perfect Scones Every Time:
- Keep it Cold: Cold butter and milk are essential for achieving a tender, flaky texture. Consider chilling your mixing bowls beforehand.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough scones. Mix just until the dough comes together.
- Handle Gently: Be gentle when handling the dough to prevent toughening.
- Bake at High Temperature: A high baking temperature helps create a beautiful rise and crisp edges.
Variations: Get Creative in the Kitchen!
- Cheese Scones: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the dough.
- Herb Scones: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- Sweet Scones: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract and some cinnamon for extra warmth.
Nutritional Information (per scone, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
This delicious scone recipe offers a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy homemade treats. Perfect as a quick breakfast, a delightful afternoon snack, or a simple addition to a more elaborate meal, these scones are guaranteed to become a family favorite. Enjoy!