Description
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!
Ingredients
-
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)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
-
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
-
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
-
Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture.
-
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
-
Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract just until combined.
-
If using any add-ins like dried fruit or zest, fold them in gently.
-
The dough should be slightly sticky but not wet.
-
Avoid overmixing to keep the scones tender.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
-
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
-
Gently pat it into a ¾-inch thick circle.
-
Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut into 8 wedges.
-
Transfer the scones to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
Step 6: Brush and Bake
-
Brush the tops lightly with buttermilk.
-
Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired for extra crunch.
-
Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the scones are cooked through.
-
Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Cuisine: British-American