How to Perfectly Bake Fluffy and Delicious Scones at Home

Scones

Yields: 8 scones Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 15-20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour1

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Optional: turbinado sugar for sprinkling
  

Equipment:

• Baking sheet

• Parchment paper

• Mixing bowls

• Pastry blender or two forks

• 3-inch biscuit cutter
  

Instructions

Get started:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   

Mix the ingredients:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

2. Cut in the butter using a pastry blender or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Stir in the sugar.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, egg, and vanilla extract.

5. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
   

Shape the scones:

1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for just a few seconds, until it forms a smooth ball.

2. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick round.

3. Cut out scones using a 3-inch biscuit cutter and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
   

Bake the scones:

1. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

2. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving.
   

Optional:

• Brush the tops of the scones with milk or cream before baking and sprinkle with turbinado sugar for a sweet and crunchy topping.

• Serve with clotted cream, jam, or butter.
  

For a richer scone, try using buttermilk instead of the milk and cream.