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. These Traditional English Scones are light, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy afternoon tea, a special brunch with friends, or a delightful snack. The unique qualities of this recipe come from its royal origins, ensuring you serve up a taste of tradition right in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Tender: These scones are soft and flaky, providing a delightful texture that melts in your mouth.
• Simple to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these royal treats effortlessly.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm with clotted cream and strawberry jam or as a standalone treat with your favorite tea.
• Royal Heritage: This recipe is adapted from the official Buckingham Palace recipe, adding a touch of elegance to your kitchen.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s an afternoon tea party or a quick snack, these scones fit right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Rolling pin
• Biscuit cutter
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for baking your scones evenly.
• Rolling pin: Ensures an even dough thickness for uniform baking results.
• Biscuit cutter: Helps shape scones perfectly without tearing the dough.

Ingredients

To make these Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe), you will need the following:

• 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)
• 2/3 cup sultanas or golden raisins, optional (100g)

How to Make Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)

Step 1: Prepare the Raisins

If using, soak the raisins or sultanas in hot water for 20 to 30 minutes. Drain before adding to the recipe. PRO TIP: Soaking softens dried fruit and keeps the scone dough moist.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, pinch of salt, and sugar. Add the cold butter pieces and work them into the dry ingredients until crumbly.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate small bowl, whisk two eggs together with buttermilk. Stir this mixture into the flour mixture. If using raisins, add them at this stage and mix gently until evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing to keep scones tender.

Step 4: Rest the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured countertop. Flatten it to about 1 inch thickness and cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 30 to 45 minutes. This resting period helps achieve tenderness in your scones.

Step 5: Cut Out Scones

After resting, take out the dough and use a round biscuit cutter to cut out shapes. Place them on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill again for another 20 minutes.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Whisk the third egg and brush it over the tops of each scone with a pastry brush for that golden finish.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for around 12 to 15 minutes or until they turn light golden brown. Ensure there is space between each scone for even baking. Cool on a wire rack before serving warm with jam and clotted cream. Enjoy!

How to Serve Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)

Serving Traditional English Scones is a delightful experience that enhances your tea time. These scones can be enjoyed in various ways, and pairing them correctly can elevate their flavor and enjoyment.

With Clotted Cream

• Rich and Creamy: The traditional way to serve scones is with clotted cream. This luxurious cream adds a velvety texture and richness that complements the scone’s tenderness.

With Strawberry Jam

• Sweet Contrast: A dollop of good quality strawberry jam provides a sweet contrast to the buttery scone, making each bite a perfect balance of flavors.

With Lemon Curd

• Zesty Flavor: For those who enjoy a tangy twist, lemon curd offers a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the scone’s sweetness.

As Part of an Afternoon Tea Spread

• Elegant Presentation: Arrange scones on a tiered cake stand alongside finger sandwiches and pastries for an exquisite afternoon tea experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Fruity Addition: Serve alongside fresh berries such as strawberries or raspberries. Their natural sweetness and tartness add freshness to your tea time.

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How to Perfect Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)

To achieve the ideal texture and flavor in your Traditional English Scones, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter and buttermilk are cold. This helps create flaky layers in the scone.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough scones instead of tender ones.
• Rest the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest helps relax the gluten, resulting in a softer texture.
• Use Proper Cutting Technique: When cutting out the scones, press down firmly without twisting. Twisting can seal the edges and hinder rising.
• Bake One Sheet at a Time: For even baking, bake one sheet at a time or rotate sheets halfway through cooking.
• Cool on a Wire Rack: Let scones cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This helps maintain their texture.

Best Side Dishes for Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)

Pairing side dishes with your Traditional English Scones can enhance the overall experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Cucumber Sandwiches: Lightly seasoned cucumber slices on soft bread offer refreshing bites alongside sweet scones.
2. Mini Quiches: Savory mini quiches provide a delightful contrast with their rich fillings and flaky crusts.
3. Deviled Eggs: These creamy delights add an element of sophistication and pair well with the sweet notes of the scone.
4. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances the richness of clotted cream and jam.
5. Cheese Platter: Include various cheeses for a savory complement that contrasts nicely with sweet toppings.
6. Tea Cakes: Lightly flavored tea cakes can be served as additional treats during tea time, enhancing your spread.

These serving suggestions and sides will undoubtedly make your tea time memorable while enjoying Traditional English Scones from the Official Buckingham Palace Recipe!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect scone can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for your Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe).

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can make your scones tough. Gently knead until just combined for tender results.
• Skipping the Resting Period: Not allowing the dough to rest can lead to dense scones. Be sure to chill your dough for at least 30 minutes.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature may result in uneven scones. Always preheat your oven accurately before baking.
• Not Using Cold Butter: Room temperature butter leads to flat scones. Use cold, unsalted butter to ensure they rise perfectly.
• Forget to Egg Wash: Skipping the egg wash can lead to a dull finish. Brush your scones with beaten egg for a beautiful golden color.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place a paper towel inside the container to absorb moisture.

Freezing Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)

• Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds. Check frequently to avoid making them soggy.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe).

How do I achieve a fluffy texture?

To ensure fluffy scones, use cold ingredients and avoid overmixing the dough. Letting it rest also helps achieve that desired texture.

Can I add different flavors or ingredients?

Absolutely! You can customize your scones by adding nuts, spices, or chocolate chips. Just keep the overall balance of wet and dry ingredients in mind.

What is the best way to serve these scones?

These delicious scones are best served warm with clotted cream and strawberry jam during afternoon tea or brunch.

How do I know when my scones are done baking?

Your scones should be light golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when they are fully baked.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

You can substitute whole wheat flour, but expect denser scones. A mix of both flours may yield better results while still being healthy.

Final Thoughts

The Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe) bring a touch of elegance and comfort to your tea time. With their tender texture and delightful flavor, they are perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings, making this recipe as versatile as it is delicious!