Traditional Scottish Scones

Light, buttery, and slightly sweet, these traditional Scottish scones are a staple for tea time. With a tender crumb and a golden crust, they pair beautifully with butter, jam, or clotted cream. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted the next day, these scones are a delightful addition to any breakfast or afternoon tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick – Made with basic pantry ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes.
• Buttery and Flaky – Cold butter creates a delicate, tender texture.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or with afternoon tea.
• Customizable – Add raisins, currants, or even a touch of spice for variation.
• Classic and Traditional – A true taste of Scotland, bringing a warm and comforting treat to your table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ½ cup raisins or currants (optional)
• ¾ cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Prepare the Dough:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, rub the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the raisins or currants, if using.

Add Wet Ingredients:

5. In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
6. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.

Shape the Scones:

7. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead a few times to bring it together.
8. Roll out the dough to about ¾-inch thickness.
9. Use a round cutter to cut out scones and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Scones:

10. Brush the tops with a little milk or an egg wash for a golden finish.
11. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown.

Cool and Serve:

12. Let the scones cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with butter, jam, or clotted cream.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 10 scones
• Calories: 250 kcal per scone

Variations

• Cheese Scones – Omit the sugar and add ½ cup of grated cheddar cheese for a savory twist.
• Spiced Scones – Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Chocolate Chip Scones – Swap raisins for mini chocolate chips for a sweeter version.
• Lemon or Orange Zest – Add citrus zest to the dough for a refreshing hint of flavor.
• Dairy-Free Alternative – Use dairy-free butter and substitute milk with almond or oat milk.

Storage and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked scones for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes or toast before serving.

FAQs

What makes Scottish scones different from other scones?

Scottish scones are typically softer and slightly less sweet than their English counterparts, with a tender and flaky texture.

Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, if using self-rising flour, omit the baking powder and salt.

Why is my dough too dry or too wet?

The consistency of the dough can vary depending on the flour and humidity. If it’s too dry, add a little more milk; if too wet, add a small amount of flour.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Should I use salted or unsalted butter?

Unsalted butter is recommended to control the salt content, but you can use salted butter and reduce the added salt in the recipe.

How do I prevent scones from being too dense?

Avoid overworking the dough, as this can lead to tough scones. Mix until just combined and handle gently.

Can I make smaller scones?

Yes, use a smaller cutter and reduce the baking time to about 10-12 minutes.

What’s the best way to serve Scottish scones?

Scottish scones are best enjoyed warm with butter, jam, or traditional clotted cream.

Can I use buttermilk instead of whole milk?

Yes, buttermilk will add a slight tang and create an even more tender scone.

Can I bake these in a cast-iron skillet?

Yes, you can arrange the scones in a cast-iron skillet for a slightly crispier exterior.

Conclusion

Traditional Scottish Scones are a timeless and delicious treat, perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea. With their light, buttery texture and slightly sweet flavor, they’re incredibly easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether served with butter and jam or customized with your favorite mix-ins, these scones are a must-try for any baking enthusiast!