Buttermilk Scones

If you’re dreaming of tender, buttery scones with a slightly crisp exterior and soft, fluffy middle, these Buttermilk Scones are your perfect match! Lightly sweetened and beautifully golden, they’re ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon tea. Simple to make and endlessly customizable, you’ll find yourself baking them again and again.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tender and Fluffy – The buttermilk keeps the scones light and moist.
Simple Ingredients – You likely already have everything you need at home.
Quick to Make – Ready in just about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Versatile – Add your favorite mix-ins like berries, chocolate chips, or nuts.
Perfect Anytime – Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or toasted the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Scones:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ¾ cup buttermilk (plus extra for brushing)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ cup dried cranberries, raisins, or chocolate chips
• 1 tsp lemon zest or orange zest for a citrusy flavor

For Topping:

• 2 tbsp coarse sugar (for sprinkling)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter or two forks
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

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

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

1. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture.
2. Using a pastry cutter or two forks, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Small lumps of butter should still be visible—they make the scones flaky!

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

1. In a small bowl, combine the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
2. Pour the wet ingredients into the flour mixture and stir gently until just combined.
3. If using add-ins like dried fruit or chocolate chips, fold them in now.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Gently pat it into a 1-inch thick round.
3. Cut into 8 wedges (like a pizza) or use a round biscuit cutter for smaller scones.

Step 6: Bake the Scones

1. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
2. Brush the tops with a little buttermilk and sprinkle with coarse sugar for a sweet, crunchy finish.
3. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

1. Transfer the scones to a cooling rack and let them cool slightly.
2. Serve warm with butter, jam, or clotted cream.

Tips for Perfect Buttermilk Scones
Use Very Cold Butter – Cold butter creates steam pockets for flakiness.
Don’t Overmix – Stir just until the dough comes together for tender scones.
Chill the Dough – For extra flaky scones, chill the shaped dough for 10 minutes before baking.
Customize Freely – Swap add-ins to suit your mood or season.
Brush with Buttermilk – It gives a beautiful, golden color to the tops.

Serving Suggestions

• With Butter and Jam: Classic and always delicious.
• With Clotted Cream: For a traditional English tea experience.
• Alongside Coffee or Tea: The perfect cozy morning or afternoon pairing.
• With Fresh Fruit: Sliced berries or a fruit salad for a fresh contrast.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Keep leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate for longer storage, up to 5 days.

Reheating:

• Oven: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–8 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for about 10–15 seconds for a quick warm-up.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze buttermilk scones?
   Yes! Freeze baked scones in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
2. Can I use heavy cream instead of buttermilk?
   You can, but the buttermilk adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.
3. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
   Make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
4. How do I make scones extra rich?
   Add an extra tablespoon of butter and an extra tablespoon of sugar for a more indulgent flavor.
5. Can I make mini scones?
   Definitely! Just cut the dough into smaller rounds or triangles and reduce baking time by a few minutes.

Final Thoughts
These Buttermilk Scones are a simple pleasure—flaky, buttery, and just sweet enough. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, enjoying a quiet morning, or sharing a treat with friends, they bring warmth and comfort to any occasion. The best part? You can whip them up from scratch with minimal effort and maximum reward.

Try them once, and you’ll want to make them part of your regular baking rotation!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Cooling Time: 5 minutes
Cuisine: British-inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 260 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 320mg

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