Buttermilk Scones

Fluffy, buttery, and delightfully tender, these Buttermilk Scones are a true bakery-style treat you can easily make at home. With their golden tops and soft, slightly crumbly texture, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea. Enjoy them plain, glazed, or with a dollop of jam and cream—the possibilities are endless!

Love homemade bakery treats like this? Subscribe now and get fresh-baked recipes sent straight to your inbox every week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tender & Fluffy – Buttermilk keeps the scones soft and moist.
Quick & Simple – No fancy equipment needed, ready in under an hour.
Versatile – Add fruit, chocolate chips, or a glaze for different variations.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Elegant enough for a brunch spread or cozy enough for everyday baking.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Freeze and bake fresh when needed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ cup dried cranberries, raisins, or chocolate chips
• Zest of 1 lemon or orange for a citrusy twist

Optional Topping:

• Coarse sugar for sprinkling
• Simple glaze (powdered sugar + milk)

Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowl
Pastry cutter or fork
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Knife or bench scraper
Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

1. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture.
2. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients

1. Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract just until combined.
2. If using any add-ins like dried fruit or zest, fold them in gently.
3. The dough should be slightly sticky but not wet.
4. Avoid overmixing to keep the scones tender.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Gently pat it into a ¾-inch thick circle.
3. Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut into 8 wedges.
4. Transfer the scones to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.

Step 6: Brush and Bake

1. Brush the tops lightly with buttermilk.
2. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired for extra crunch.
3. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the scones are cooked through.
4. Let cool slightly before serving.

Tips for the Best Buttermilk Scones
Use Cold Butter – It creates flaky layers as it melts during baking.
Don’t Overwork the Dough – Minimal mixing keeps the scones light and tender.
High Oven Temperature – Helps the scones rise beautifully.
Add Flavor – Try cinnamon, nutmeg, or citrus zest to vary the flavor.
Eat Fresh – Scones are best enjoyed the day they’re baked.

Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with clotted cream, jam, or butter.
Pair with coffee, tea, or a fresh fruit salad for brunch.
Drizzle with a simple glaze for a sweeter touch.
Top with lemon curd for a bright, tangy contrast.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Store cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate for longer storage (up to 5 days).

Freezing:

• Freeze unbaked scones individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating:

• Oven: Warm at 325°F for 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds, just until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk?
   Yes! Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to ¾ cup milk and let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Can I make these scones sweet or savory?
   Absolutely! Leave out the sugar and add herbs and cheese for savory scones.
3. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, just work in batches to avoid overmixing the dough.
4. Why are my scones dry?
   Overbaking or using too much flour can cause dry scones. Measure carefully and bake just until golden.

Final Thoughts
These Buttermilk Scones are everything a scone should be—soft, tender, buttery, and so satisfying. They’re incredibly simple to make, yet impressive enough to serve for brunches, tea parties, or cozy mornings at home. Once you see how easy and delicious they are, you’ll want to bake a batch anytime you need a little homemade comfort.

Try them today and enjoy a warm, fluffy treat straight from your own kitchen!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Cuisine: British-American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 260 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 33g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 320mg

Print