Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups (17 ½ oz/497 g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (2 oz/57 g) granulated sugar
- 5 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet and Additional Ingredients
- ½ cup (4 oz/115 g) cold butter, cubed
- ¾ cup (3 ¾ oz/106 g) currants, optional
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- ¾ cup (6 fl oz/180 ml) whole milk
- ¼ cup (2 fl oz/60 ml) heavy cream
- Egg wash (1 beaten egg with a splash of water or milk) for glazing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare baking tray: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (180℃). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and set aside to ensure scones don’t stick.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly distributed.
- Incorporate the butter: Rub the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture using your fingers until the texture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Alternatively, use a pastry blender for this step.
- Add currants: Toss the currants into the flour and butter mixture, ensuring they are well coated to prevent clumping.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk the egg, whole milk, and heavy cream together until fully combined.
- Form the dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix and gently combine using your hand until a dough forms. The sides of the bowl should be clean and the dough slightly sticky but manageable.
- Shape and cut scones: Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough onto it. Knead very lightly to smooth the dough, then pat it down to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness. Using a 3 inch (8 cm) round cookie cutter, cut out scones. Gather remaining scraps, re-flatten, and cut more scones.
- Prepare for baking: Arrange the cut scones on the prepared baking tray, ensuring space between each. Brush the tops generously with egg wash to achieve a glossy golden finish.
- Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the scones turn golden brown and a skewer inserted comes out clean.
- Serve: Remove from oven and cool slightly. Serve warm with Irish butter, jam, and freshly whipped cream. For best taste, consume on the day of baking. Store any leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream with plant-based alternatives.
- Do not overwork the dough to maintain a tender texture.
- Egg wash provides a shiny, golden top; feel free to omit if preferred.
- Ensure butter is very cold to achieve a flaky, crumbly texture.
- Currants are optional but add a traditional sweet burst. You may substitute with raisins or dried cranberries if desired.
- Use fresh or high-quality ingredients to enhance flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Baked Goods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish