British Scones

British Scones Recipe from England, United Kingdom

Region / culture: England, United Kingdom | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

British scones are a quintessential part of the United Kingdom's culinary heritage, embodying the simplicity and comfort of afternoon tea. These small, lightly sweetened baked goods are traditionally served with clotted cream and jam, making them a staple in British tea culture. This recipe offers a classic approach to making British scones, ensuring a delightful treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

History

The origin of the scone can be traced back to Scotland in the early 1500s. Initially, scones were made with oats and baked on a griddle. Over time, the recipe evolved, and by the 19th century, scones had become an essential component of the British afternoon tea tradition, thanks to Anna, the Duchess of Bedford. Today, scones come in various flavors and are enjoyed worldwide.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp cream of tartar
0.5 tsp baking soda
1 pinch of salt
0.25 cup margarine
0.13 cup white sugar
0.5 cup plus 2 tbsp milk

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Sift the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt into a bowl.
Rub the butter into the mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
Stir in the sugar and enough milk to make a soft dough.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface, knead lightly, and roll it out to a thickness of 0.75 inches.
Cut the dough into 2-inch rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush the rounds with milk to glaze.
Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10 minutes, then cool them on a wire rack.
Serve with butter or clotted cream and jam.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding dried fruits such as raisins or sultanas to the dough. For a savory version, reduce the sugar and add grated cheese and chopped herbs.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To achieve the perfect scone, ensure that your butter is cold and cut into small pieces before rubbing it into the flour mixture. This process helps create a flaky texture. Avoid overworking the dough to keep the scones light and tender. Lastly, brushing the tops with milk before baking gives them a beautiful golden color.

Serving Suggestions

British scones are best served warm with a dollop of clotted cream and your favorite jam. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea, making them perfect for an afternoon snack or part of a brunch spread.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in making scones is the "rubbing in" method, where fat is rubbed into the flour to create a breadcrumb-like texture. This technique is crucial for achieving the light and flaky texture characteristic of scones.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free margarine. Gluten-free flour can be used for those with gluten sensitivities, though the texture may vary slightly.

Make Ahead Tips

Scone dough can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight, or frozen for longer storage. Simply thaw (if frozen) and proceed with rolling, cutting, and baking as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Serve scones on a beautiful cake stand or platter, accompanied by small bowls of clotted cream and jam. A sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar can add a touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair British scones with a robust black tea, such as Earl Grey or Assam, to complement their richness. For a lighter option, a floral Darjeeling tea works beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of British scones contains approximately 180 calories. This makes them a relatively light option for a snack or part of a balanced breakfast.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of British scones contains approximately 27 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of these carbohydrates is the all-purpose flour, which provides the body with energy.

Fats

The fat content in a single serving of British scones is around 6 grams, mainly coming from the margarine. Using margarine instead of butter slightly reduces the saturated fat content, making it a marginally healthier option.

Proteins

British scones offer a modest protein content of about 4 grams per serving. This protein comes from the milk and flour used in the recipe, contributing to the overall nutritional value of the scones.

Vitamins and minerals

Scones provide a range of vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the milk, which is essential for bone health. They also contain iron for healthy blood cells and B vitamins from the flour, supporting energy metabolism.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (from the flour) and dairy (from the milk). Individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients should consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, British scones are a comforting treat that, when enjoyed in moderation, can fit into a balanced diet. They provide a good balance of carbohydrates and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This British scone recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy a classic treat that has been cherished for centuries. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it's a perfect introduction to the world of baking. Whether enjoyed as part of a traditional afternoon tea or as a comforting snack, these scones are sure to please.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its flavors. It was a cool autumn day in London, and I had decided to take a stroll through the bustling streets of the city. I had always been a lover of all things British, from the history to the culture to the food. And on that particular day, the smell of freshly baked scones wafted through the air and drew me in like a moth to a flame.

I followed the scent to a quaint little bakery tucked away on a side street. As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by the warm and inviting aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg. The display case was filled with an array of mouth-watering pastries, but it was the scones that caught my eye.

I approached the counter and struck up a conversation with the baker, a friendly gentleman with a twinkle in his eye. He told me that the recipe for the scones had been passed down through generations in his family, and that they were a beloved treat in Britain. He even offered to share the recipe with me, and I eagerly accepted.

As he began to recite the ingredients and instructions, I listened intently, hanging on his every word. The key, he explained, was to use cold butter and to handle the dough as little as possible. This would ensure that the scones turned out light and flaky, just as they should be.

I watched as he deftly mixed the ingredients together, his hands moving with practiced precision. He then shaped the dough into rounds and placed them on a baking sheet, before sliding them into the oven to bake.

As the scones rose and turned a golden brown, filling the bakery with their irresistible aroma, I knew that I had found a recipe worth treasuring. I thanked the baker profusely and left with a bag of warm scones in hand, eager to recreate the magic in my own kitchen.

Back at home, I gathered the ingredients and set to work. I followed the recipe to the letter, making sure to handle the dough gently and with care. As I shaped the scones and placed them in the oven, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation.

When the timer finally dinged and I opened the oven door, I was greeted by a sight that made my heart soar. The scones had risen beautifully, their tops a perfect shade of golden brown. I eagerly broke one open and marveled at the light and airy texture inside.

I took a bite, and my taste buds were met with a symphony of flavors - buttery, slightly sweet, with a hint of spice. It was perfection in every bite, just as I had remembered from that fateful day in London.

From that moment on, British scones became a staple in my repertoire of recipes. I made them for family gatherings, for afternoon tea with friends, and even just for myself on lazy Sunday mornings. Each time, they brought a smile to my face and a warmth to my heart.

And as I grew older and passed the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, I knew that I was carrying on a tradition that had been cherished for generations. The recipe for British scones had become more than just a culinary delight - it was a piece of my history, a connection to a place and a people that I held dear.

So the next time you bite into a warm, flaky scone, remember the story behind it. Remember the friendly baker in London, the smell of cinnamon and nutmeg, the joy of creating something delicious with your own two hands. And most of all, remember the love that went into each and every bite.