If you're in search of a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, look no further than these Buttermilk Scones Four Ways! With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these tender, flaky scones that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked scones wafting through your kitchen, inviting family and friends to gather around the table. Whether you prefer classic flavors or adventurous add-ins like chocolate chips or herbs, this versatile recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to elevate your baking game and discover the secrets to scone perfection!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 scones
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- Optional add-ins: chocolate chips, dried fruit, nuts, herbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk the dry ingredients together until well blended.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. It’s important to keep the butter cold for flaky scones.
- Make a well in the center of the mixture and pour in the buttermilk. Gently stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- If you are adding any optional ingredients such as chocolate chips, dried fruit, nuts, or herbs, fold them into the dough at this stage until evenly distributed.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently just a couple of times to bring the dough together. Pat the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick.
- Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into 8 to 12 wedges, depending on your preferred size for the scones. Alternatively, you can use a round cutter to make individual scones.
- Transfer the cut scones to the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one. For a golden finish, you can brush the tops with a little buttermilk or melted butter.
- Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature with butter, jam, or clotted cream.
Tips
- Keep Your Butter Cold: For the flakiest scones, ensure your butter is very cold when mixing it with the flour. This helps create those desirable layers as the scones bake.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the buttermilk with the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough scones, so be gentle!
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize your scones by adding in your favorite mix-ins. Chocolate chips, dried fruit, nuts, or fresh herbs can all add a unique twist to the classic recipe.
- Proper Cutting Technique: When cutting your scones, use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean edges. This helps them rise evenly in the oven.
- Brush for Shine: For a beautiful golden finish, brush the tops of your scones with a little buttermilk or melted butter before baking.
- Serve Warm: Scones are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Serve them warm with butter, jam, or clotted cream for an indulgent treat.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them and reheat when ready to enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
