Buttermilk Scones

If you’re looking for a tender, flaky treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or tea time, these Buttermilk Scones are a must-try! Lightly sweetened with a rich, buttery flavor, they’re delicious served warm with jam, honey, or a pat of butter.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tender and Flaky – Thanks to the magic of cold butter and buttermilk.
Quick and Easy – Ready to enjoy in under 30 minutes.
Customizable – Add dried fruits, chocolate chips, or nuts.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Brunches, holidays, or cozy afternoons.
Simple Ingredients – No fancy ingredients needed, just wholesome basics.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Scones:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 6 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• ¾ cup buttermilk, cold
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Topping:

• 2 tbsp heavy cream or milk (for brushing)
• 2 tbsp coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter or two forks
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush
• Whisk and spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and flavor.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture.
Using a pastry cutter or two forks, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Small bits of butter help create those perfect flaky layers.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 5: Make the Dough
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
Stir gently with a spatula until the dough just comes together.
Do not overmix; it’s okay if the dough looks a little shaggy.

Step 6: Shape the Scones
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
Gently pat it into a 1-inch thick round.
Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the dough into 8 equal wedges.
Transfer the scones to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

Step 7: Brush and Sprinkle
Brush the tops of the scones with heavy cream or milk.
Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired for extra crunch and sweetness.

Step 8: Bake the Scones
Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top and cooked through.
Cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving warm.

Tips for the Best Buttermilk Scones
Keep Everything Cold – Cold butter and buttermilk create the flakiest scones.
Don’t Overwork the Dough – Handle the dough as little as possible for tender scones.
Use a Sharp Cutter – If cutting rounds, use a sharp biscuit cutter and don’t twist.
Chill Before Baking – If the dough gets too warm, chill the shaped scones for 10 minutes before baking.

Serving Suggestions
With Jam and Butter – A classic combination that never fails.
With Clotted Cream – For a traditional British touch.
With Fresh Berries – Adds a refreshing, fruity burst.
As Part of a Brunch Spread – Pairs beautifully with eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing: Room Temperature: Store cooled scones in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerate: Store for up to 5 days for longer freshness.

Reheating: Oven: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual scones for 10-15 seconds to soften.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes! Shape the scones, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time.
2. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
   You can make a quick substitute by mixing ¾ cup milk with 2 teaspoons of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
3. Can I add mix-ins?
   Absolutely! Stir in ½ cup of dried cranberries, raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts for extra flavor.
4. Can I make them gluten-free?
   Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Final Thoughts
Buttermilk Scones are the perfect balance of rich, buttery flavor and light, flaky texture. They come together quickly with basic pantry ingredients and are endlessly customizable to suit your taste.
Whether you’re enjoying them with a cozy cup of tea or sharing them with loved ones at brunch, these scones are sure to become a new favorite!

Give them a try and let me know how you liked them! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your baking success on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see your golden, beautiful scones.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 290 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 310mg

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