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The Ultimate Flaky Buttermilk Scones Recipe

Four tall, fluffy scones with perfectly golden, buttery tops resting on a light gray plate.
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Learn how to make tall, buttery, and flaky scones at home. This easy recipe uses buttermilk for a tender texture, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
  • 3/4 cup cold buttermilk
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 teaspoon milk or cream (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. This step is key for flaky scones.
  4. Pour in the cold buttermilk all at once. Use a fork to gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix; the dough will look shaggy.
  5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead the dough 4 to 5 times, just enough to bring it together.
  6. Pat the dough into a 3/4-inch thick circle or square. Use a sharp, floured round cutter (about 2.5 inches) to cut out the scones. Press the cutter straight down without twisting to keep the scones tall.
  7. Place the cut scones onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are close together for softer sides, or slightly apart for crispier edges.
  8. In a small bowl, whisk the egg and milk/cream together to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the scones lightly with the wash.
  9. Bake for 14 to 17 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
  10. Transfer the scones to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm.

Notes

  • For the best texture, keep your butter and buttermilk very cold before mixing.
  • If you want taller scones, stack the cut dough pieces on top of each other before baking, or chill the cut shapes for 10 minutes before brushing with egg wash.
  • Customize your scones by gently folding in 1/2 cup of blueberries, chocolate chips, or shredded cheddar cheese before adding the buttermilk.
  • Serve these classic scones with strawberry jam and clotted cream for an authentic afternoon tea experience.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.unfoldrecipes.com/best-scones-recipe-fluffy-buttery-rise/