High Rise Scones

High Rise Scones are a classic baked good that blend rich buttery flavor with the perfect crumbly texture and an irresistible height. Whether served with jam and cream, drizzled with honey, or enjoyed plain and warm from the oven, these scones are an elegant addition to any breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea. This recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and a few time-tested techniques to help them rise tall and bake evenly with golden tops and fluffy interiors. Ideal for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, these scones are a satisfying bake that never goes out of style.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15–18 minutes

• Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Yield

Makes approximately 6–8 medium scones

Cuisine

British / Traditional English Tea

Ingredients

• 1 cup plain flour (all-purpose flour)

• 1½ teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ⅛ cup caster sugar (or granulated sugar)

• ¼ cup butter, chilled and chopped into small cubes

• ½ cup buttermilk (plus a little extra for brushing tops)

• 1 egg, lightly beaten (optional, for brushing or enrichment)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).

• Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly flour it.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.

• Stir to combine thoroughly.

3. Cut in the Butter

• Add the cold, chopped butter to the flour mixture.

• Using your fingertips, a pastry blender, or two knives, rub or cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.

• Small chunks of butter are fine—this is what creates flaky layers.

4. Add the Buttermilk

• Make a well in the center of the dry mixture. Pour in the buttermilk.

• Gently mix with a butter knife or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.

• Do not overmix. The dough should just come together.

5. Knead and Shape

• Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it.

• Gently knead 3–4 times just to bring it together. Pat or roll the dough to about 2.5 cm (1 inch) thickness.

• Use a floured round cutter to cut out scones. Press straight down—avoid twisting, which can hinder the rise.

6. Prepare for Baking

• Place the scones on the prepared baking tray, slightly apart for individual scones or touching for soft sides.

• Optional: Brush the tops with beaten egg or a bit of buttermilk for a glossy finish.

7. Bake

• Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the scones have risen well and are golden brown on top.

8. Serve

• Remove from oven and cool slightly on a wire rack.

• Serve warm with butter, clotted cream, jam, honey, or your favorite spread.

Nutritional Information (Per Scone)

Based on 1 of 8 servings

• Calories: ~150

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Protein: 3g

• Fat: 8g

• Sugar: 3g

• Sodium: 220mg

Origins and Popularity

Scones trace their origins back to Scotland in the early 1500s and gained popularity in England as a staple of traditional afternoon tea. Named after the Stone of Scone used in Scottish coronation ceremonies, these baked goods were originally cooked on griddles before oven baking became widespread. Modern scones are popular across the UK, Australia, and North America, and vary widely in shape, flavor, and sweetness. High Rise Scones are particularly loved for their dramatic lift and delicate crumb.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tall and impressive: Achieve bakery-style rise at home

• Simple ingredients: No fancy tools or exotic products needed

• Versatile flavor: Sweet or savory customizations welcome

• Quick to prepare: From bowl to oven in under 10 minutes

• Classic comfort: The perfect companion for tea or coffee

Health Benefits

While scones are more of an indulgence than a health food, they can offer:

• Energy boost from healthy carbohydrates

• Calcium and probiotics if made with buttermilk

• Portion control: Small servings make it easy to enjoy without overindulgence

• Homemade advantage: You control the sugar and fat content compared to store-bought versions

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Cream Tea: Serve with clotted cream and strawberry jam

• Breakfast: Pair with fruit and a hot coffee or Earl Grey tea

• Savory twist: Skip the sugar and add grated cheese and herbs

• Picnic treat: Great as a handheld snack for outdoor gatherings

• Holiday Brunch: Dress them up with cinnamon butter or lemon curd

Cooking Tips

• Cold butter is key: The colder the butter, the flakier the scones

• Don’t overwork the dough: Minimal mixing helps keep scones tender

• High heat = high rise: Bake in a hot oven to activate the leavening agents quickly

• Proper cutting: Press straight down with your cutter to encourage lift

• Touching scones: For softer sides, let scones bake touching each other; for crispier edges, space them apart

Variations

• Cheese Scones: Add ½ cup grated cheddar and a pinch of mustard powder

• Fruit Scones: Fold in ⅓ cup currants, raisins, or dried cranberries

• Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the dry mixture for brightness

• Spiced: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm flavor

• Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free milk + vinegar in place of buttermilk

Conclusion

These High Rise Scones bring old-world charm to your kitchen with minimal effort. They rise beautifully, taste delightful, and make every table look and feel special. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted the next day, these scones are sure to impress with their flaky texture, buttery flavor, and stunning height. Serve them at brunch, for afternoon tea, or keep them on hand as a treat with your coffee.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why aren’t my scones rising?
Check that your baking powder is fresh and that your oven is hot enough. Also avoid twisting the cutter when shaping the dough.

2. Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes. For a substitute, mix ½ cup milk with 1½ teaspoons lemon juice or vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes.

3. What flour is best for scones?
Plain (all-purpose) flour works perfectly. Self-raising flour can also be used, but reduce or omit added baking powder.

4. Can I freeze scones?
Yes. Freeze unbaked scones and bake from frozen (adding 3–4 minutes to baking time), or freeze baked ones and reheat in the oven.

5. How do I keep scones fresh?
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the oven to refresh texture.

6. What’s the best way to serve scones?
Warm with butter, jam, or clotted cream. For savory versions, pair with cheese or soup.

7. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just scale the ingredients and ensure you don’t crowd the pan during baking.

8. Why is my dough too sticky or too dry?
Humidity and flour brand can affect texture. Add a touch more flour or buttermilk as needed, a spoon at a time.

9. Should I use an egg wash?
Brushing with egg gives a shiny, golden top. You can also use milk or buttermilk for a more matte finish.

10. Can I add flavors like vanilla or almond?
Yes, a few drops of vanilla extract or almond essence can enhance sweet scones wonderfully.