Vanilla Scones

There's something magical about pulling a tray of golden scones from the oven on a lazy weekend morning. These vanilla scones deliver that perfect bakery texture: flaky on the outside, tender inside, without any fussy techniques.

The secret? Grated frozen butter. It sounds simple, but this one trick creates those delicate, buttery layers that make homemade scones worth the effort. Finished with a sweet vanilla glaze, they're perfect with your morning coffee or as the star of afternoon tea.

Tips & Variations

Jam Swirl Scones: Add 3 tablespoons of your favorite jam to the dough before shaping. Gently swirl with a knife for beautiful marbled scones.

Flavor Variations:

• Lemon Poppy Seed: Add 2 tablespoons lemon zest and 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• Chocolate Chip: Fold in ½ cup mini chocolate chips
• Dried Fruit: Add ½ cup dried cranberries, cherries, or blueberries

The Science Behind Flaky Scones

Want to understand why cold butter is so crucial for achieving those perfect flaky layers? Learn the complete science in our article

Serving Suggestions

These scones pair beautifully with:

• Hot coffee or tea for breakfast
• Clotted cream and jam for afternoon tea
• Fresh berries and whipped cream for brunch

Storage & Make-Ahead

Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Make-Ahead: Shape the dough, cut into squares, and freeze unbaked. Bake from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time.