The Fluffiest Buttermilk Scones Recipe for Sunday Brunch Joy

Crafting delightful buttermilk scones brings pure morning magic to your kitchen.

Buttery layers promise a heavenly texture that melts instantly.

Crumbly edges hint at countless cozy breakfast moments waiting to unfold.

Soft wheat flour combined with tangy dairy creates an irresistible morning treat.

Quick mixing techniques guarantee delectable results every single time.

Fresh from the oven, these golden pastries will make your entire day feel special.

Dive right in and savor each tender, warm bite.

Ingredients Used in Delia Smith Buttermilk Scones

• All Purpose Flour: A key base ingredient that provides structure for the scones.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the scones.
• Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the savory elements.

• Buttermilk, Egg: Provide moisture and help bind the dough together with a rich, tangy flavor.

• Butter: Creates a tender, flaky texture and adds rich, creamy flavor to the scones.

Step-by-Step for Delia Smith Buttermilk Scones

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 220C (425F) to create the perfect baking environment for golden, fluffy scones.

Step 2: Blend Dry Ingredients

• Flour
• Salt

Gently work the cold butter into the dry ingredients using your fingertips until the mixture looks like coarse, crumbly breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Add Sweet Touch

Sprinkle sugar into the flour mixture and give it a quick stir to distribute evenly.

Step 4: Create Dough Magic

• Egg
• Buttermilk

Pour this liquid mixture into the flour mixture and gently combine. If the dough feels too dry, splash in a bit more buttermilk until it comes together smoothly.

Step 5: Shape Scone Rounds

Dust your work surface with a light layer of flour. Roll out the dough to about an inch thick. Use a round cutter to shape your scones, pressing straight down without twisting.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Arrange the scone rounds on a baking sheet. Brush the tops with a little extra buttermilk to help them turn a beautiful golden brown.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the scones are a gorgeous golden color and look irresistibly puffy.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Transfer the scones to a wire rack. Enjoy them warm with a dollop of jam or let them cool completely. These scones are delicious either way!

Helpful Notes for Delia Smith Buttermilk Scones

• Measure Precisely: Use exact measurements for flour and buttermilk to ensure perfect scone texture and prevent dry or overly wet dough.
• Handle Gently: Mix ingredients minimally to keep scones tender, avoiding tough and dense results by not overworking the dough.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an accurate oven thermometer to guarantee consistent 220C heat for even golden-brown scones.
• Add Flavor Boosters: Experiment with mix-ins like dried fruits, chocolate chips, or herbs to create unique scone variations without compromising basic technique.
• Serve Fresh: Enjoy scones warm from the oven for maximum softness and best taste, storing any leftovers in an airtight container for 1-2 days.

Different Spins on Delia Smith Buttermilk Scones

• Gluten-Free Scones: Replace wheat flour with almond or coconut flour for a gluten-free alternative, ensuring the same tender texture.
• Vegan Buttermilk Scones: Swap egg and butter with plant-based alternatives like flax egg and coconut oil, using dairy-free buttermilk made from soy or almond milk.
• Herb-Infused Savory Scones: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or chives to the dough for a savory version, perfect for serving with soups or salads.
• Low-Sugar Option: Reduce sugar content by using a small amount of honey or monk fruit sweetener, maintaining the classic scone flavor profile.

Perfect Matches for Delia Smith Buttermilk Scones

• Elevate Buttermilk Scones with Perfect Pairings
• Brew Classic Earl Grey Tea: The bergamot and floral notes complement the buttery scones, creating a sophisticated morning or afternoon treat that feels elegantly British.
• Spread Homemade Berry Jam: Tart raspberry or strawberry preserves add vibrant sweetness that cuts through the scones' rich, dense texture, enhancing every delightful bite.
• Serve Clotted Cream: Traditional Devonshire cream provides a luxurious, silky counterpoint to the scones' crumbly structure, delivering an authentic English teatime experience with indulgent richness.
• Pair Sparkling Elderflower Cordial: Light, delicate floral drink balances the scones' hearty profile, offering a refreshing non-alcoholic option that brings a subtle sweetness to the palate.

Keeping Delia Smith Buttermilk Scones Fresh

• Store scones in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping them fresh and soft. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Wrap individual scones in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2 months for later enjoyment.
• Warm scones at 150C (300F) for 5-7 minutes, wrapped in foil to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
• Heat scones for 10-15 seconds on medium power, checking to avoid overheating and maintaining their delicate texture.

FAQs About Delia Smith Buttermilk Scones

• What makes buttermilk scones different from regular scones?

Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps create a lighter, more tender texture compared to regular milk scones.

• Can I make these scones without buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes before using to create a similar acidic effect.

• How do I know when the scones are perfectly mixed?

The dough should just come together without overmixing. Stop mixing when the ingredients are just combined to keep the scones tender and light.

• Are buttermilk scones easy for beginners to make?

Absolutely! This recipe requires simple ingredients and basic baking techniques, making it perfect for home bakers of all skill levels.

What Makes Delia Smith Buttermilk Scones Stand Out

• Bake with Ease: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make these buttermilk scones perfect for bakers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros.
• Quick Kitchen Magic: Prepare and bake these delightful scones in under 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for spontaneous breakfast or afternoon tea cravings.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Versatile and loved by everyone, these scones are fantastic for family gatherings, weekend brunches, or casual get-togethers with friends.
• Adaptable Treats: Customize with add-ins like dried fruits, chocolate chips, or herbs to match your mood and create endless delicious variations.

Cloudlike Buttermilk Scones Recipe

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4.6 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 20-22 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Delightful Buttermilk Scones dance with buttery richness and tender crumb, bringing British bakery charm straight to your kitchen. Crumbly edges and golden surfaces invite eager bakers to savor these classic treats alongside morning coffee or afternoon tea.

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Ingredients

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Flour and Dry Ingredients:

• 225 grams (8 ounces) self-raising flour
• 1 pinch salt
• 40 grams (1.4 ounces) golden caster sugar

Fats and Dairy:

• 75 grams (2.6 ounces) butter, at room temperature
• 23 tablespoons (342 milliliters) buttermilk, plus extra for brushing

Binding Ingredients:

• 1 large egg, beaten

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Instructions

1. Prepare workspace by preheating the oven to a high temperature of 220°C (425°F), ensuring an optimal baking environment for golden, flaky scones.
2. Sift flour and salt together in a large mixing bowl, creating a light, airy base for the pastry.
3. Incorporate cold butter into the flour mixture, using fingertips to gently break down and blend until the texture resembles coarse, crumbly breadcrumbs.
4. Sprinkle sugar evenly into the mixture, gently folding to distribute the sweetness throughout the dough.
5. Whisk egg with buttermilk in a separate small bowl, creating a rich, creamy binding liquid for the scone mixture.
6. Pour the wet ingredients into the flour mixture, carefully folding and combining until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
7. If the dough feels too dry, gradually add extra buttermilk to achieve the perfect consistency for shaping.
8. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently roll out to approximately 1-inch thickness.
9. Use a round cutter to shape uniform scones, pressing straight down without twisting to ensure clean, even edges.
10. Delicately brush the top of each scone with additional buttermilk, which will help create a beautifully golden, glossy finish.
11. Place scones on a baking tray and bake for 10-12 minutes, watching carefully until they turn a rich, appetizing golden brown.
12. Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire cooling rack, allowing them to rest briefly before serving warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• Maintain cold ingredients for a flakier, lighter texture that melts in your mouth.
• Use fresh, high-quality buttermilk to enhance the rich, tangy flavor of your scones.
• Avoid overworking the dough to prevent tough, dense scones that lack the classic tender crumb.
• Experiment with add-ins like dried fruits, chocolate chips, or herbs to customize your scones for different taste preferences.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 279 kcal
• Sugar: 9 g
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 55 mg