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The Best Flaky Buttermilk Scones Recipe

Four golden brown, flaky homemade scones stacked on a white plate, highlighted by sunlight.
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Make bakery style scones at home that are crispy on the edges and tender inside. This easy scone recipe uses buttermilk for superior moisture and texture.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
  • 3/4 cup cold buttermilk
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon milk or cream (for egg wash)
  • Optional add-ins: 1 cup blueberries, 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, or 1/2 cup dried cranberries

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. This step is key for flaky scones.
  4. Stir in your chosen add-ins, if using.
  5. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the cold buttermilk. Mix gently with a fork until just combined. Do not overmix; the dough will look shaggy.
  6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead the dough 3 or 4 times, just enough to bring it together.
  7. Pat the dough into a circle about 3/4 inch thick. Use a sharp, floured round or triangular cutter to cut out your scones. For tall, flaky scones, press the cutter straight down without twisting.
  8. Place the cut scones onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between them.
  9. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk/cream for the egg wash. Brush the tops of the scones lightly with the wash.
  10. Bake for 14 to 18 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
  11. Let the scones cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm.

Notes

  • For the best texture, keep all ingredients, especially the butter and buttermilk, very cold.
  • If you want a sweet finish, prepare a simple glaze by whisking 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk or lemon juice until smooth, and drizzle over cooled scones.
  • If you are making these ahead, you can prepare the dough, cut the shapes, place them on the tray, cover, and chill for up to 12 hours. Brush with egg wash and bake when ready.
  • To achieve bakery style scones, avoid twisting the cutter; press straight down to keep the layers separated.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kingscook.com/best-flaky-buttermilk-scones-recipe/