English Scones

Total Time

Prep/Total Time: 30 min.

Makes

10 scones

Updated: Sep. 12, 2023
When I came to America from England in 1967, I made sure to bring along my favorite recipe for English scones. Served warm with butter, they're perfect for breakfast. —Barry Grieve, Fort Campbell, Kentucky

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
  • 1 cup raisins
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg
  • Additional milk

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar and baking powder. Cut in butter until mixture resembles fine crumbs. Stir in raisins. Whisk milk and egg; add to dry ingredients, stirring lightly.
  2. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; roll to 1-in. thickness. Cut with a 2-1/2-in. biscuit cutter. Place on a greased baking sheet. Bake until golden brown, 10-15 minutes. Serve warm.
English Scones Tips

What's the difference between English scones and American scones?

English scones and American scones differ in flavor, shape and texture. English scones have a crumbly, delicate texture. They tend to be smaller and less sweet than their American counterpart, which are typically large and triangular shaped. American scones boast a buttery, rich flavor and a cake-like texture.

When should you serve English scones?

You can serve English scones any time, however this pastry is traditionally served as part of afternoon tea. It makes an excellent addition to any tea party, especially afternoon tea. Unlike the evening tradition of high tea, afternoon tea is served between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. and includes light dishes such as tea sandwiches, desserts and scones.

What do you serve with English scones?

For the traditional approach, pair this English scones recipe with jam or clotted cream, a rich dairy-based spread with a buttery flavor and velvety texture. For a more modern spin, pair them with other tea party recipes such as rose petal honey or lemon curd.

—Lindsay Mattison, Taste of Home Contributing Writer

Nutrition Facts

1 scone: 229 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 32mg cholesterol, 147mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.