Classic Homemade Scones Recipe

Few baked treats are as comforting as a freshly made scone. Light, crumbly, and slightly sweet, scones are a staple of British baking and are famously served as part of a traditional cream tea with jam and clotted cream.

The good news is that homemade scones are surprisingly simple to make. With just a handful of pantry ingredients and about 20 minutes of baking time, you can produce warm, fluffy scones that taste far better than most shop bought versions.

This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and ideal for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a cosy weekend treat.

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Ingredients

225 g self raising flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
40 g butter, chilled and cubed
25 g caster sugar
1 large egg
100 ml milk (plus a little extra for glazing)
A pinch of salt

Optional additions:

50 g sultanas or raisins
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of half a lemon

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F.

Line a baking tray with baking parchment.

These stainless steel baking trays are ideal: HaWare Baking Tray Set of 2, Stainless Steel Oven Tray

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

Place the self raising flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt into a large mixing bowl.

Stir gently to combine the ingredients evenly.

3. Rub in the Butter

Add the cubed butter to the flour mixture.

Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. This step helps create light and fluffy scones.

4. Add the Wet Ingredients

Beat the egg lightly in a small bowl, then mix it with the milk.

Pour most of the mixture into the flour mixture and stir with a knife or spoon until a soft dough begins to form. Add more milk if needed.

If you are using sultanas or lemon zest, fold them into the dough at this stage.

5. Form the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface.

Gently knead it just enough to bring it together. Avoid overworking the dough, as this can make the scones heavy.

Flatten the dough to about 2 cm thick.

6. Cut the Scones

Use a round cutter (about 5 cm wide) to cut out the scones.

Place them on the prepared baking tray, leaving a little space between each one.

Brush the tops lightly with milk to help them turn golden while baking.

7. Bake the Scones

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the scones have risen and are lightly golden on top.

Transfer them to a cooling rack.

How to Serve Scones

Scones are best enjoyed fresh and slightly warm.

Popular serving options include:

Butter and jam
Clotted cream and strawberry jam
Honey or lemon curd
Fresh berries and whipped cream

A pot of tea alongside freshly baked scones creates the perfect traditional afternoon tea experience.

I use this gorgeous teapot when afternoon tea is a treat: Portmeirion x Botanic Garden Teapot

Tips for Perfect Scones

Use cold butter for the best texture.
Handle the dough as little as possible to keep the scones light.
Do not twist the cutter when cutting the dough, as this can stop the scones from rising evenly.
Bake immediately after shaping for the best rise.

Final Thoughts

Making homemade scones is quick, easy, and incredibly rewarding. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a delicious baked treat that is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Whether served with jam and cream or simply spread with butter, these classic scones are a timeless favourite that never goes out of style.

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