What fruit is best in scones?

The most traditional and widely loved fruit in scones is the raisin or sultana . They're sweet, chewy, and evenly distribute throughout the dough. However, you're not limited to just those. Currants , dried cranberries , chopped dates , or even mixed peel can bring different flavors and textures. For a seasonal twist, dried cherries , apricots , or blueberries also make excellent alternatives. The key is to use dried or semi-dried fruits, fresh fruit adds moisture that can alter the dough's structure.

What is the secret to making good scones?

It’s all about technique and temperature . Cold ingredients are essential, especially butter, milk, and eggs . They create steam in the oven, leading to a better rise. Mix the dough gently , and avoid overhandling it, which can result in tough scones. Pat the dough out by hand (no rolling pins!) and cut using a straight press with your cutter, never twist it. Finally, bake in a hot oven and serve fresh for the best texture and taste.

What is the secret to fluffy scones?

Fluffy scones rely on three main secrets: Cold Butter : Keeps the dough from becoming greasy and helps create air pockets during baking. Minimal Mixing : Stir just until the dough comes together to avoid developing gluten. Tall Dough : Don’t roll your dough too thin, keep it about 2.5 cm thick before cutting for maximum height. Also, letting your shaped scones rest in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before baking firms the butter back up and helps them puff up beautifully.

What to avoid when making scones?

Avoid these common mistakes: Overmixing the dough , which leads to toughness. Warm butter , which prevents flakiness. Thin dough , which results in flat scones. Twisting the cutter , which seals edges and stops a proper rise. Baking too long , which dries them out. Use fresh self-raising flour, handle everything gently, and bake immediately after shaping, or chill briefly if needed. These small adjustments make a huge difference in the final result.

Fruit Scones -The Best 9-Step Recipe for Fluffy, Homemade Perfection

Name: Fluffy Fruit Scones Recipe: How to Make the Best Classic Treat at Home
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 450 grams Self-raising flour plus extra for dusting; 1 teaspoon Baking powder; Pinch of Salt; 80 grams Caster sugar plus extra for dusting; 150 grams Unsalted butter cold; 1 medium Egg cold; 150 milliliters Milk cold; 150 grams Raisins or sultanas

Ingredients

Scale

450 grams Self-raising flour plus extra for dusting
1 teaspoon Baking powder
Pinch of Salt
80 grams Caster sugar plus extra for dusting
150 grams Unsalted butter cold
1 medium Egg cold
150 milliliters Milk cold
150 grams Raisins or sultanas

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (fan) or 220°C (conventional). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together self-raising flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. Add cubed cold butter and rub it into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

4. Stir in the sugar and dried fruit (raisins, sultanas, or currants).

5. In a small jug, lightly beat the egg and milk together.

6. Pour the liquid into the dry ingredients and mix gently with a knife in a figure-eight motion until a soft, shaggy dough forms.

7. Lightly flour your work surface and turn out the dough. Pat it into a round disc about 2.5 cm thick.

8. Use a 6 cm round cutter (floured) to cut out scones, pressing straight down without twisting.

9. Place scones on the tray, brush tops with milk or egg, and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and well-risen.

10. Cool slightly on a rack and serve warm with clotted cream and jam.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: British