Flaky & Buttery Scone Dough Recipe: Your Breakfast Game Changer

Every morning deserves a special treat, and what better way to start your day than with homemade scones? This recipe guarantees flaky, buttery goodness that will make you the star of any breakfast table. Let’s dive into the magic of scone making!

Why This Recipe Works

  • The combination of cold butter and heavy cream ensures a tender, flaky texture that’s hard to resist.
  • Minimal handling of the dough prevents toughness, keeping your scones light and airy.
  • A perfect balance of sweetness makes these scones versatile for both sweet and savory toppings.
  • Quick baking time means you can enjoy fresh scones without a long wait.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream, plus extra for brushing
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Pastry cutter or fork
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Scone Dough Recipe

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures your scones will have an even distribution of flavors and leavening agents. Tip: Sifting the flour can make your scones even lighter.

Step 2: Incorporate Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The key here is to keep the butter cold for flaky layers. Tip: Freeze the butter for 10 minutes before using for easier handling.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Overmixing will lead to tough scones, so stop as soon as the dough comes together.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick circle. Use a sharp knife or a biscuit cutter to divide the dough into 8 wedges or rounds. Tip: For extra flaky scones, fold the dough over itself a couple of times before shaping.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Place the scones on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush the tops with a little heavy cream for a golden finish, and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Tips and Tricks

For the flakiest scones, handle the dough as little as possible and keep all ingredients cold. If you’re adding mix-ins like berries or chocolate chips, fold them in gently after the wet and dry ingredients are combined. To ensure even baking, space the scones at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. For a savory twist, reduce the sugar to 1 tbsp and add grated cheese and herbs to the dough. Always preheat your oven for consistent results.

Recipe Variations

  • Berry Bliss: Fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen berries for a fruity twist.
  • Chocolate Chip Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet treat.
  • Savory Cheese: Mix in 1/2 cup of grated cheddar and 1 tbsp of chopped herbs for a savory option.
  • Pumpkin Spice: Incorporate 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree and 1 tsp of pumpkin spice for a fall favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Just shape and bake the scones the next morning for fresh-out-of-the-oven goodness.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? While heavy cream gives the richest texture, you can substitute with whole milk for a lighter version. The scones might be less tender.

How do I store leftover scones? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to refresh them.

Summary

This scone dough recipe is your ticket to flaky, buttery perfection. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a delicious breakfast or snack in no time. Customize with your favorite add-ins for endless variations.

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