Mum’s Simple Economy Scones: A Timeless Treat for Any Occasion π
When I was a little girl, my mum introduced me to the magic of scone-making with a recipe so simple, itβs become a cherished part of our family tradition. In a world brimming with complex scone recipes featuring eggs and cream, this straightforward versionβrelying on just self-raising flour, butter, and milkβproves that sometimes simplicity is all you need. Perfect for afternoon tea or as a quick snack, these scones come together in just 20 minutes, making them an ideal choice for those spontaneous moments when a cozy treat is just what you need. π΅π°
Ingredients
- 2 cups self-raising flour β This is the magic ingredient that makes these scones rise beautifully, creating a light and airy texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt β To enhance the flavors and balance the sweetness.
- 30 grams butter β Softened, for a rich and tender crumb.
- 250 milliliters milk β Provides the liquid needed to bring the dough together, with a little reserved for brushing the tops.
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 250Β°C (480Β°F). This high temperature ensures that your scones will bake up nicely with a golden-brown exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. -
Prepare the Dry Ingredients
Sift the self-raising flour and salt together into a large mixing bowl. This step is crucial as it helps to evenly distribute the salt and ensures there are no lumps in your flour. -
Incorporate the Butter
Add the softened butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This process is what creates the light, flaky texture in the scones. -
Mix the Dough
Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in almost all of the milkβreserve about a tablespoon for later. Quickly stir with a butter knife to combine the ingredients into a soft dough. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can make the scones tough. -
Knead and Roll Out
On a lightly floured surface, gently knead the dough a few times just until it comes together. Flatten the dough with your hands to a thickness of approximately 1.5 centimeters (about 0.6 inches). -
Cut Out the Scones
Use a round cutter to cut out discs from the dough. You can use any size cutter you prefer, but typically a 5 cm (2-inch) cutter works well for scones. -
Prepare for Baking
Place the scones on a buttered baking tray, placing them close together but not touching. This positioning helps them rise upwards rather than spreading outwards. Brush the tops of the scones with the reserved milk for a beautiful, golden finish. -
Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. The high oven temperature ensures a quick bake, giving you perfect scones in just minutes. -
Serve and Enjoy
These scones are delightful served warm with a pot of tea. For a traditional Devonshire tea experience, pair them with whipped cream and strawberry jam. Alternatively, for a savory twist, consider adding herbs or grated cheese to the dough before baking. These savory scones are wonderful with soups and casseroles.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 104.6 per scone
- Fat: 3 grams
- Saturated Fat: 1.8 grams
- Cholesterol: 8.2 milligrams
- Sodium: 337.3 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 16.4 grams
- Fiber: 0.6 grams
- Sugar: 0.1 grams
- Protein: 2.8 grams
Recipe Yield
This recipe makes 12 delightful scones, perfect for sharing with family or friends. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or just enjoying a quiet moment, these scones are sure to bring comfort and joy to any occasion. πΏπ
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and indulge in the simplicity and pleasure of homemade scones that evoke fond memories and create new ones with each delicious bite.