Classic Scones
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup cold heavy cream (plus more for brushing)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins (choose one)
- 3/4 cup chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup fresh or frozen berries
- 1/2 cup dried fruit
- 1 teaspoon lemon or orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat & prep
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Mix dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. - Cut in butter
Add cold butter and cut it in using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. - Add wet ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk cream, egg, and vanilla. Pour into the flour mixture and gently mix just until combined. Fold in any add-ins. - Shape
Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat into a 7–8 inch circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into 8 wedges. - Bake
Transfer to the baking sheet, brush tops with cream, and bake for 15–18 minutes, until lightly golden. - Cool & serve
Cool slightly before serving. Optional: drizzle with glaze or sprinkle with coarse sugar.
Simple Glaze (Optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk or lemon juice
Whisk until smooth and drizzle over cooled scones.
Tips for Perfect Scones
- Keep everything cold—this gives flaky layers.
- Don’t overmix; a slightly shaggy dough is best.
- For extra height, chill shaped scones for 10 minutes before baking.