These fruit scones are light, fluffy, and packed with dried fruit, making them the perfect addition to your breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea. Serve them with butter, clotted cream, or jam for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ½ cup dried fruit (raisins, currants, or dried cranberries)
- ¾ cup buttermilk (or regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash, optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cut in the butter:
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the dried fruit:
- Stir the dried fruit into the flour mixture to evenly distribute.
- Mix the wet ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk and vanilla extract. Gradually add the buttermilk mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Shape the dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Pat the dough into a round about ¾-inch thick. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out scones, or cut the dough into triangles.
- Optional egg wash:
- If desired, whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon of milk and brush the tops of the scones with the egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake the scones:
- Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the scones are cooked through.
- Cool and serve:
- Allow the scones to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with butter, jam, or clotted cream.
Enjoy these light, fluffy, and fruit-filled scones with your favorite tea or coffee for a delightful snack or breakfast treat!
