Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)
Enjoy British royalty’s official English scones recipe–adapted from Buckingham Palace–because your tea time deserves the very best. This recipe bakes a batch of tender scones, ready to serve with clotted cream and good strawberry jam. With a flaky texture and rich flavor, these Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe) are perfect for tea parties, brunch gatherings, or any special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Follow: The step-by-step instructions make it simple for anyone to recreate these delightful scones.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s an afternoon tea or a casual brunch, these scones elevate any gathering.
- Deliciously Versatile: Feel free to customize with your favorite additions, like raisins or other dried fruits.
- A Taste of Royalty: Enjoy a recipe that has been served at Buckingham Palace, bringing an authentic taste of British tradition to your home.
- Great for Sharing: Bake a batch of 12 delicious scones and delight your friends and family with these treats.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin making Traditional English Scones, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure success.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Pastry brush
- Rolling pin
- Biscuit cutter
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry ingredients and wet mixtures without spills.
- Pastry brush: Helps apply the egg wash evenly on the scone tops for a beautiful finish.
- Biscuit cutter: Ensures uniform size and shape, which leads to even baking.
Ingredients
For the Scone Base
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (500g)
- 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon baking powder (24g)
- Pinch of salt
- 7 tablespoons cold, unsalted butter, cut into small pieces (94g)
- 1/2 cup sugar (86g)
- 3 eggs, divided
- 3/4 cup buttermilk, less 1 tablespoon (175ml)
Optional Add-ins
- 2/3 cup sultanas or golden raisins (100g)
How to Make Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)
Step 1: Prepare the Raisins (Optional)
If using, soak the raisins or sultanas in hot water for 20 to 30 minutes. Drain before adding them to the recipe.
– PRO TIP: Soaking softens the dried fruit, enhancing flavor and keeping the dough moist.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
– Flour
– Baking powder
– Pinch of salt
– Sugar
Add the butter and work it into the dry ingredients with your hands until crumbly. Aim for a texture similar to large peas mixed with sand.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate small mixing bowl:
– Whisk together two eggs and buttermilk.
– Stir this mixture into the butter-flour blend.
– If using raisins, add them here.
Gently knead the dough by hand just until smooth.
– PRO TIP: Avoid overmixing to keep scones tender.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured countertop. Flatten it to about 1 inch thick and cover it.
– Let it rest in the refrigerator for 30 to 45 minutes to relax gluten.
Step 5: Cut Scones
Once chilled:
– Remove dough from refrigerator.
– Use a round biscuit cutter to cut into desired shapes.
– Place on greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill again for an additional 20 minutes.
Step 6: Preheat Oven & Egg Wash
Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Whisk the third egg and brush it gently over the tops of each scone with a pastry brush.
– PRO TIP: If you lack a pastry brush, fingers can work too!
Step 7: Bake Scones
Bake on prepared sheets for around 12 to 15 minutes until light golden brown. Ensure sufficient space between each scone while baking.
– Cool on wire rack before serving warm or at room temperature with jam and clotted cream.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your own batch of Traditional English Scones!
How to Serve Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)
Serving traditional English scones can elevate your tea time experience. Whether for a casual afternoon snack or an elegant gathering, these scones pair beautifully with various accompaniments.
Classic Tea Time Pairings
- Clotted Cream: This rich cream is a must-have on scones. Spread it generously for a creamy texture.
- Strawberry Jam: A sweet, fruity jam complements the scones perfectly. Try homemade or store-bought options for convenience.
Fruit and Nut Enhancements
- Fresh Berries: Serve with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.
- Honey: Drizzle honey over the scone instead of jam for a unique twist.
Beverages to Complement
- Earl Grey Tea: The aromatic flavors of Earl Grey enhance the taste of scones and make for a classic pairing.
- Sparkling Water: For a refreshing option, serve sparkling water to cleanse the palate between bites.
Creative Toppings
- Lemon Curd: Add a zesty touch to your scone with lemon curd, balancing sweetness and tartness.
- Cream Cheese Spread: Mix cream cheese with herbs or spices for a savory alternative.
How to Perfect Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)
To achieve perfect traditional English scones, follow these essential tips that can help you create tender and flaky results.
- Use Cold Ingredients: Keep butter and buttermilk cold. This helps achieve that light, flaky texture when baking.
- Gently Handle the Dough: Overworking the dough can lead to tough scones. Mix just until combined for the best results.
- Rest the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill before baking relaxes gluten and improves texture.
- Properly Cut Scones: Use a sharp cutter without twisting to ensure even rising during baking.
- Bake in Batches: Bake one tray at a time for consistent results. Rotate if using two trays simultaneously.
- Check Doneness Early: Keep an eye on your scones near the end of baking time to avoid over-browning.
Best Side Dishes for Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)
Pairing side dishes with your traditional English scones enhances the overall experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of scones.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like Brie or Cheddar that complement the flavors without overpowering them.
- Mini Quiches: These savory bites are excellent alongside sweet scones, offering variety in flavors.
- Pâté or Spreads: Serve with various spreads like chicken liver pâté for an upscale touch to your tea service.
- Soup Shots: Offer small cups of creamy soup as a warm accompaniment, enhancing comfort during tea time.
- Savory Muffins: Lightly flavored muffins, such as cheese or herb varieties, provide an interesting contrast in texture and taste.
- Tea Sandwiches: Delicate sandwiches filled with cucumber or smoked salmon add elegance to any afternoon tea setting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe) can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overmixing the Dough – Mixing too much can lead to tough scones. Gently knead until just combined for tender results.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature – Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to the specified temperature before baking.
- Not Chilling the Dough – Skipping the chilling step can result in less flaky scones. Allow the dough to rest in the refrigerator to relax gluten.
- Using Old Ingredients – Expired baking powder can affect rise and texture. Ensure your ingredients are fresh for best results.
- Ignoring the Egg Wash – Skipping this step may lead to dull-looking scones. Brush with an egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)
- Freeze scones in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag.
- They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
- Stovetop – Place on a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe).
How do I know when my scones are done?
Scones are done when they are lightly golden brown on top and have risen nicely. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Can I make these scones ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, cut it into shapes, and freeze them before baking. Just bake them straight from the freezer when ready.
What can I serve with Traditional English Scones?
These scones pair wonderfully with clotted cream and strawberry jam, perfect for tea time or brunch.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or different dried fruits like cranberries or apricots.
Final Thoughts
The Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe) offers a taste of British royalty right in your home. These scones are perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to breakfast treats. Experiment with various flavors and toppings to make them uniquely yours!
Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the exquisite taste of Traditional English Scones, inspired by the official recipe from Buckingham Palace. These light and fluffy scones are a delightful addition to your afternoon tea or brunch gatherings. With a perfect flaky texture and rich buttery flavor, they are best served warm with clotted cream and sweet strawberry jam. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or enjoying a cozy morning at home, this royal scone recipe brings a touch of elegance to your table.
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 7 tablespoons cold unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3 eggs (divided)
- 3/4 cup buttermilk (less 1 tablespoon)
- Optional: 2/3 cup sultanas or golden raisins
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
- In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
- In another bowl, whisk together two eggs and buttermilk. Mix into dry ingredients until just combined.
- If using dried fruit, fold it in gently. Chill the dough for about 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough to about 1 inch thick and cut into rounds. Place on a baking sheet.
- Brush tops with the remaining egg before baking for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack before serving warm with clotted cream and jam.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone (70g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
