Fluffy, Tangy, and Irresistible: The Ultimate Buttermilk Scones Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked scones wafting through the kitchen. Growing up, Sunday mornings were reserved for baking sessions with my grandmother, who swore by her secret ingredient: buttermilk. Its tangy flavor and tenderizing properties transformed ordinary scones into melt-in-your-mouth delights. Today, I’m sharing a tried-and-true recipe for buttermilk scones that captures that nostalgic essence while catering to modern tastes.

What Are Buttermilk Scones?

Buttermilk scones are a delightful baked good, characterized by their tender crumb and subtle tang. Originating from the British Isles, scones have become a staple in American bakeries and homes alike. While traditional scones use milk or cream, incorporating buttermilk not only imparts a unique flavor but also reacts with leavening agents to produce a lighter texture.

Why Use Buttermilk in Scones?

Buttermilk isn’t just a flavorful addition; it’s a functional one. Here’s why:

• Tender Texture: The acidity in buttermilk breaks down gluten strands, resulting in a softer crumb.
• Enhanced Rise: When combined with baking soda, buttermilk’s acidity produces carbon dioxide, giving scones a better lift.
• Flavor Depth: Its tangy profile balances the richness of butter and sweetness of sugar, creating a well-rounded taste.

If you’re out of buttermilk, a simple substitute is adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes.

Essential Ingredients for Classic Buttermilk Scones

To craft the perfect buttermilk scones, gather the following:

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Leavening agents that ensure a good rise.
• Salt: Enhances flavor.
• Cold Unsalted Butter: Creates flakiness; cold butter is crucial to prevent melting before baking.
• Buttermilk: Adds moisture and tang.
• Optional Add-ins: Dried fruits, chocolate chips, or nuts for variation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Buttermilk Scones

1. Preheat Oven: Set to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Incorporate Butter: Grate cold butter using a box grater and mix into dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add Buttermilk: Pour in buttermilk and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
5. Shape Dough: Turn dough onto a floured surface, gently knead, and pat into a 1-inch-thick circle.
6. Cut Scones: Use a round cutter or knife to divide dough into desired shapes.
7. Bake: Place scones on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush tops with buttermilk, and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.

Tips for Perfect Buttermilk Scones Every Time

• Keep Ingredients Cold: Cold butter and buttermilk prevent premature melting, ensuring flaky layers.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix until ingredients just come together to avoid tough scones.
• Use Sharp Cutters: A sharp cutter ensures clean edges, promoting even rise.
• Chill Before Baking: If time allows, refrigerate shaped scones for 15 minutes before baking to solidify fats.

Popular Variations of Buttermilk Scones

Buttermilk scones are versatile. Consider these delightful twists

• Fruit Additions: Incorporate blueberries, cranberries, or raisins for a fruity touch.
• Savory Options: Add cheddar cheese and chives or bacon bits for a savory treat.
• Flavor Infusions: Mix in lemon zest, cinnamon, or vanilla extract for added depth.
• Glazes and Toppings: Drizzle with a simple icing or sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions for Buttermilk Scones

Serve buttermilk scones warm with:

• Clotted Cream and Jam: A classic pairing.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: For added sweetness.
• Fresh Berries: Enhances the fruity notes.
• Herbal Teas or Coffee: Complements the scones’ richness.

Storing and Reheating Buttermilk Scones

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keeps scones fresh for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked scones for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Scones

• Overmixing leads to dense scones.
• Using Warm Butter: Prevents flakiness.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Too low, and scones won’t rise properly.
• Skipping Resting Time: Chilling dough before baking helps maintain shape.

Fluffy, Tangy, and Irresistible: The Ultimate Buttermilk Scones Recipe

---

• Author: Manar Annan
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 scones 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

These classic buttermilk scones are light, tender, and slightly tangy, thanks to the magic of buttermilk. Perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a sweet treat, this recipe offers simple steps and foolproof results every time.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, grated

• ¾ cup buttermilk (plus extra for brushing)

• Optional: dried fruit, chocolate chips, or zest for flavor variations

---

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

• In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

• Grate in cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

• Pour in the buttermilk and stir just until combined.

• Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Gently knead and pat into a 1-inch-thick circle.

• Cut into rounds or wedges and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

• Brush tops with a little buttermilk.

• Bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden and puffed.

• Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Keep butter and buttermilk cold for the best texture.

Do not overwork the dough to avoid dense scones.

For extra flavor, add lemon zest, cinnamon, or dried fruit.

Scones can be frozen before or after baking.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Baked Goods
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: buttermilk scones, easy scone recipe, homemade scones, baking with buttermilk, fluffy scones, traditional scones, afternoon tea recipes, scone variations