Basic Scones

Ingredients

• 3 cup self-raising flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 80 g butter (cold, cubed)
• 1 cup milk (plus extra for brushing)
• 1 salt (pinch)

Steps

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.

2. 2

   Sift the self-raising flour and a pinch of salt into a large mixing bowl.

3. 3

   Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour.

4. 4

   Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.

5. 5

   Make a well in the center of the mixture and pour in the milk.

6. 6

   Use a flat-bladed knife to mix the dough using a cutting motion until it just starts to come together.

7. 7

   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead very gently until smooth. Do not overwork the dough or the scones will be tough.

8. 8

   Press the dough out with your hands to a thickness of about 2cm (3/4 inch).

9. 9

   Use a floured round cutter to stamp out scones, pressing straight down without twisting.

10. 10

    Place the scones onto the prepared baking tray, slightly touching each other to help them rise evenly.

11. 11

    Brush the tops of the scones with a little extra milk.

12. 12

    Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the scones are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Notes

For best results, ensure the butter is very cold. If the dough feels too dry, add an extra tablespoon of milk. Serve warm with jam and whipped or clotted cream.

Nutrition per serving

• baking
• afternoon tea
• breakfast
• snack
• vegetarian
• british cuisine