Scottish Scones

Scottish Scones Recipe | Ingredients: Self-rising flour, salt, butter, sugar, raisins, egg, milk

Region / culture: Scotland | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10-12 minutes | Servings: 8 scones

Introduction

Scottish scones are a traditional baked treat that are perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea. These delicious pastries are easy to make and are sure to impress your family and friends.

History

Scones have been a staple in Scottish cuisine for centuries. Originally made with oats and cooked on a griddle, scones have evolved over time to include ingredients like flour, butter, sugar, and currants. Today, Scottish scones are enjoyed all over the world for their flaky texture and sweet flavor.

Ingredients

2 cups self-rising flour
0.5 tsp salt
3 tbsp butter
2 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp raisins or currants
1 egg, slightly beaten
milk

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt, then rub in the butter using your fingers.
Stir in the sugar and raisins.
Place the egg in a small glass measure and add enough milk to make 0.75 cup.
Add all but 1 tbsp of the egg and milk mixture to the flour mixture.
Knead the dough about 6 times on a lightly floured surface, then roll it out to slightly over 0.75 inch thickness.
Cut the dough into 3-inch rounds.
Place the rounds on a greased baking sheet and brush the tops with the reserved egg and milk mixture.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Serve warm.

Variations

Add lemon zest or dried cranberries to the dough for a citrusy or tart flavor.
Substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Top the scones with a glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for a sweet finish.

Notes

Self-rising flour makes lighter scones and biscuits, but it's possible to substitute 2 cup all-purpose bleached flour, 3 tsp baking powder, and 1 tsp salt.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use cold butter when making the dough for your scones. This will help create a flaky texture.

- Do not overwork the dough when kneading it. Overworking the dough can result in tough scones.

- Brushing the tops of the scones with an egg wash before baking will give them a shiny, golden brown finish.

- Serve your scones warm with butter, jam, or clotted cream for a traditional Scottish treat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Scottish scones warm with butter, jam, or clotted cream for a traditional Scottish treat. They also pair well with a cup of tea or coffee.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to use cold butter when making the dough to create a flaky texture.

- Do not overwork the dough when kneading it to avoid tough scones.

- Brush the tops of the scones with an egg wash before baking for a shiny finish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute raisins or dried cranberries for the currants in this recipe.

- Use margarine or shortening instead of butter if desired.

- Substitute almond or soy milk for dairy milk for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Scottish scones can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Scottish scones on a decorative platter with a side of butter, jam, or clotted cream. Garnish with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Scottish scones pair well with a cup of tea or coffee. They also go well with fresh fruit or a side salad for a light breakfast or snack.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Scottish scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Scottish scones contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Scottish scones contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Scottish scones contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Scottish scones contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Scottish scones are a good source of iron and calcium.

Alergens

Scottish scones contain gluten, dairy, and eggs.

Summary

Scottish scones are a delicious treat that are relatively high in carbohydrates and fats. They also provide a good amount of protein, iron, and calcium.

Summary

Scottish scones are a delicious and traditional baked treat that are perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea. With a flaky texture and sweet flavor, these pastries are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy them warm with butter, jam, or clotted cream for a truly Scottish experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a strong memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Scottish Scones. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the Scottish highlands. My grandmother, who was a wonderful cook, had received the recipe from a dear friend who had learned it from her own grandmother.

I remember sitting at the kitchen table, watching as my grandmother carefully measured out the ingredients and mixed them together in a large wooden bowl. The aroma of the scones baking in the oven filled the air, and I couldn't wait to taste them.

When they were finally done, my grandmother served them warm with a dollop of homemade jam and a generous helping of clotted cream. I took a bite and was immediately transported to a place of comfort and warmth. The scones were light and fluffy, with a hint of sweetness that made them perfect for any time of day.

As I grew older, I became more and more interested in cooking and baking. I would often spend hours in the kitchen with my grandmother, learning all of her secrets and techniques. She taught me how to knead dough, how to whip cream, and how to tell when a cake was done just by looking at it.

One day, as I was flipping through an old recipe book that had been passed down through generations, I came across the recipe for Scottish Scones. I couldn't believe my luck – this was the same recipe that my grandmother had taught me all those years ago.

I decided to make a batch of scones for my grandmother as a surprise. I carefully followed the recipe, measuring out each ingredient with precision and care. As the scones baked in the oven, I could hardly contain my excitement.

When they were finally done, I presented them to my grandmother with a flourish. She took a bite and smiled, a twinkle in her eye.

"These are just like the ones I used to make," she said, her voice filled with pride. "You have truly mastered the art of scone-making."

From that day on, I became known as the scone maker in our family. Whenever there was a special occasion or a gathering of friends, I would whip up a batch of scones and watch as everyone devoured them with delight.

I have since passed the recipe down to my own children, who have continued the tradition of making Scottish Scones in our family. It is a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of my grandmother and the bond that we shared over our love of cooking.

I am grateful for the memories that this recipe has given me, and I will always cherish the time spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, learning how to make the perfect Scottish Scones.