Afternoon Tea Scones

Traditional Afternoon Tea Scones are a timeless delight, essential to the cherished British tradition of afternoon tea. These delicate, tender pastries boast a crumbly exterior and a soft, fluffy interior, making them the perfect canvas for clotted cream and jam. Whether you’re hosting a formal tea party or simply craving a moment of indulgence, these scones offer a delightful balance of sweetness and simplicity, perfect for pairing with your favorite tea blend.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 2/3 cup (160ml) whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Clotted cream and strawberry jam, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the Butter:
   • Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter chunks.
4. Whisk Wet Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture. Stir gently until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix; it should be slightly sticky.
6. Knead and Shape:
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently a few times until it holds together. Pat the dough into a 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick circle.
7. Cut Out Scones:
   • Using a round biscuit cutter or a glass, cut out scones from the dough. Avoid twisting the cutter; press straight down to keep the scones from being misshaped.
8. Bake:
   • Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.
9. Serve:
   • Allow the scones to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve them warm or at room temperature, split in half and spread with clotted cream and strawberry jam.

These Traditional Afternoon Tea Scones are a delightful treat that embodies the essence of British tea culture. They’re a must-have for any tea-time spread, offering a delicate sweetness and comforting simplicity that will leave your guests craving for more. Enjoy this classic recipe with your favorite tea blend.