Golden Raisin and Buttermilk Scones Recipe

Scones are a beloved classic, bringing a perfect blend of crunch and softness to any tea time or breakfast. These Golden Raisin and Buttermilk Scones are a wonderful twist, adding a fruity touch to the buttery flavor. This recipe is ideal for anyone craving a homemade baked treat that pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. What’s even better? It’s simple, quick, and doesn’t require professional baking skills.

Let’s dive into this recipe, which takes approximately 30 minutes total from preparation to serving.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (75g) golden raisins (or regular raisins)
• 2/3 cup (160ml) buttermilk, cold
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Cut in the Butter
   Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This step ensures a flaky texture for the scones.
4. Add the Raisins
   Stir in the golden raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the mixture.
5. Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
   In a small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and vanilla extract. Gradually pour this mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a fork. Be careful not to overmix—the dough should be slightly sticky and crumbly.
6. Shape the Dough
   Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently bring it together with your hands. Flatten it into a disc about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick. Use a sharp knife or a cookie cutter to divide the dough into 4-6 portions.
7. Brush with Egg Wash
   Place the scones onto the prepared baking tray, leaving space between each one. Brush the tops with beaten egg to create a golden, shiny finish.
8. Bake to Perfection
   Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
9. Cool and Serve
   Once baked, transfer the scones to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm with butter, clotted cream, or jam for an extra indulgent treat.

Tips for Success

• Use cold ingredients: Cold butter and buttermilk are essential for achieving the perfect flaky texture.
• Don’t overmix: Overworking the dough can result in dense scones. Mix until just combined.
• Customization: Feel free to replace raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped apricots for variety.

With their golden crust and tender crumb, these Golden Raisin and Buttermilk Scones are a delightful addition to your baking repertoire. They’re quick to prepare, making them an excellent choice for a spontaneous baking session. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or simply enjoying a quiet morning, these scones promise to elevate the experience.

Enjoy these scones fresh out of the oven, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones. Happy baking!