Irish Scones

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Irish scones are a perfect addition to any afternoon tea, offering a soft, buttery texture and a golden, flaky crust. They’re incredibly easy to make and require no special equipment—just your hands and basic pantry staples. Whether you enjoy them with butter, jam, or honey, they are sure to be a crowd favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3-½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup sugar
• 5 teaspoons baking powder
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup salted butter, cold and cubed
• ⅔ cup milk (2% preferred)
• ⅓ cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons milk or cream (to brush tops before baking)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, salt) in a bowl.
3. Add cold cubed butter and work into the flour until it resembles coarse meal.
4. Combine milk, cream, and egg in a small bowl and add to the dry mixture, stirring lightly until the dough forms a ball.
5. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface, then pat it into a 1-inch thickness.
6. Cut into rounds using a cutter or glass, re-rolling scraps as needed.
7. Place on the baking sheet, brushing tops with milk or cream.
8. Bake for about 25 minutes or until golden and puffed.
9. Let cool slightly on a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 scones
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add raisins or currants for a traditional touch.
• Experiment with different jams or serve with whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container or plastic bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven.

FAQs

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?

Yes, just add a pinch of salt to the recipe if using unsalted butter.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can, but it will make the scones denser. Consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a healthier option.

How thick should the dough be before cutting the scones?

Pat the dough to about 1 inch thick before cutting into rounds.

Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the dough. Cut it into rounds, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a storage bag.

How can I ensure my scones rise high?

Make sure your butter is cold, and avoid overworking the dough when kneading.

Can I use a different kind of milk?

Yes, you can substitute almond, oat, or whole milk for the dairy options in this recipe.

How do I prevent the scones from being too dry?

Be careful not to overbake them. Remove them once golden and puffed for a tender texture.

Can I add flavorings to the dough?

Yes, feel free to add vanilla extract or citrus zest for additional flavor.

Why is my scone dough too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, try adding a bit more flour. The consistency should be soft, not overly wet.

What’s the best way to serve these scones?

These are best served warm with butter, jam, or honey, and a cup of tea.

Conclusion

Irish scones are a simple, delicious treat perfect for any time of day. Their flaky texture and slightly sweet flavor make them a classic choice for afternoon tea, breakfast, or even a snack. This recipe is quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and can easily be customized to your tastes.