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## Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking Soft Scones
### 1. **Preheat Your Oven**
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven ensures that the scones rise quickly, creating a light and airy texture.
### 2. **Prepare the Dry Ingredients**
In a large mixing bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Sifting removes any lumps and ensures even distribution of the leavening agent.
### 3. **Incorporate the Cold Butter**
Cut 1/2 cup (1 stick) of cold unsalted butter into small cubes. Add the butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. The cold butter creates pockets of fat, leading to a flaky texture in the baked scones.
### 4. **Add Sugar**
Stir in 1/4 cup of granulated sugar to the flour-butter mixture. This adds a subtle sweetness to the scones.
### 5. **Combine the Wet Ingredients**
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 large egg and 1/2 cup of milk or cream. The egg provides structure, while the milk or cream adds moisture and richness.
### 6. **Bring the Dough Together**
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Gently stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough scones.
### 7. **Shape the Dough**
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times to bring it together. Pat the dough into a round disc about 1 inch thick. Using a sharp knife or a round cutter, cut the dough into 8 wedges.
### 8. **Prepare for Baking**
Place the scones onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a little milk or cream to promote browning. For added sweetness, you can sprinkle a little sugar on top.
### 9. **Bake the Scones**
Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. Avoid opening the oven door during the first 10 minutes to ensure even rising.
### 10. **Cool and Serve**
Remove the scones from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm with clotted cream and jam for a traditional treat.([simplyrecipes.com][3])
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## Tips for Achieving the Perfect Scone
* **Use Cold Ingredients**: Ensure that your butter and liquids are cold. This helps create a flaky texture.
* **Handle the Dough Gently**: Overworking the dough can lead to tough scones. Mix until just combined.([theguardian.com][4])
* **Chill the Dough**: After shaping, refrigerate the dough for 15-30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain the scone’s shape during baking.
* **Bake on a Hot Sheet**: Placing the scones on a preheated baking sheet can help them rise better.
* **Experiment with Add-ins**: Add dried fruits, nuts, or spices to customize your scones.
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## Variations to Try
### **Cheese Scones**
Incorporate 1 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese into the dry ingredients for a savory twist. You can also add a teaspoon of mustard powder for extra flavor. Cheese scones are perfect for pairing with soups or enjoying on their own. ([theguardian.com][4])
### **Fruit Scones**
Add 1/2 cup of dried fruits such as raisins, currants, or cranberries to the dry ingredients. For a fresh fruit version, gently fold in 1/2 cup of fresh berries after combining the wet and dry ingredients. Be careful not to overmix to prevent the fruit from breaking down.
### **Herb Scones**
Incorporate 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dry ingredients. Herb scones pair wonderfully with cheeses and meats.
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## Troubleshooting Common Scone Issues
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[1]: https://bakeschool.com/how-to-make-the-best-scones?utm_source=chatgpt.com “How to make the best scones – The Bake School”
[2]: https://thedoughacademy.com/how-to-make-scones-soft-12-simple-tips/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “How to Make Scones Soft (12 Simple Tips) – The Dough Academy”
[3]: https://www.simplyrecipes.com/claridges-scone-recipe-review-8718767?utm_source=chatgpt.com “200 Thousand of This Popular British Tea Time Favorite Are Served Every Year-I Tried the Recipe”
[4]: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/wordofmouth/2016/oct/06/how-to-make-the-perfect-cheese-scones?utm_source=chatgpt.com “How to make the perfect cheese scones”
