10 Delicious Scone Recipes for the Perfect Tea Time Experience

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our policy page.

For a perfect tea time experience, you can’t go wrong with these ten delicious scone recipes! Start with classic British scones or try the zesty cranberry orange and rich maple walnut versions. For something unique, lemon lavender and churro scones add delightful twists. If you’re in the mood for savory, whip up cheddar and chive scones, or indulge in blueberry coconut and matcha green tea varieties. There’s a scone for everyone, and you won’t want to miss the pumpkin spice option!

Classic British Scones

Classic British scones are a delightful addition to any tea time spread. Traditionally served alongside clotted cream and jam, these scones are light, fluffy, and incredibly simple to make. The key to achieving the perfect texture lies in handling the dough gently and avoiding overmixing.

To get started, you’ll want to guarantee that all your ingredients are at room temperature, allowing them to blend seamlessly. The process involves combining dry ingredients, cutting in butter, and then gently folding in milk to create a soft, doughy mixture. Once baked, these scones turn golden brown, enticing everyone with their buttery aroma.

• 225g self-raising flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 55g unsalted butter, cubed
• 25g caster sugar
• 150ml whole milk
• 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)

Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, sift the self-raising flour and salt together.

Add the cubed butter and rub it into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in the caster sugar, then create a well in the center and pour in the milk. Mix gently until a dough forms, being careful not to overwork it.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, pat it to about 2.5cm thick, and cut rounds using a floured cutter. Place the rounds on the baking sheet, brush with beaten egg, and bake for 12-15 minutes until risen and golden.

To achieve the best results, make sure to handle the dough with care and avoid adding extra flour, as this can lead to dense scones. If you find that your dough is too sticky, add just a sprinkle of flour to help with rolling.

For a twist on the classic, consider adding dried fruit like raisins or currants to the dough, or try incorporating lemon zest for a revitalizing citrus note. Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture, and enjoy your homemade British scones!

Cranberry Orange Scones

Cranberry orange scones are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of a cozy tea time. The bright notes of citrus from the orange zest complement the tartness of the cranberries, making for a scrumptious pastry that’s both invigorating and comforting.

These scones are easy to make and can be enjoyed warm with a dollop of butter or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of indulgence. Perfect for serving alongside your favorite cup of tea, these scones can also be enjoyed as a breakfast option or a sweet snack throughout the day.

With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will impress family and friends alike. Let’s plunge into this delightful recipe that brings a burst of flavor to the classic scone.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup fresh or dried cranberries
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the cranberries and orange zest.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, knead gently, and form it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut into wedges and place on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

When making cranberry orange scones, it’s essential not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to tough scones. Use cold butter to achieve that delightful flaky texture, and feel free to experiment with adding different flavors such as almond extract or nuts for variety.

For an extra special touch, you can glaze the scones with a simple orange juice and powdered sugar icing once they’ve cooled. Enjoy your freshly baked scones warm!

Maple Walnut Scones

Maple walnut scones are a delicious twist on the classic scone, infusing the rich flavor of maple syrup with the crunch of toasted walnuts. This delightful combination makes for a perfect accompaniment to your afternoon tea or coffee. The buttery base is light and flaky, making each bite indulgent yet comforting, and the aroma of maple wafting through your kitchen will surely entice everyone nearby.

Preparing maple walnut scones is a straightforward process that requires minimal time and ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or simply craving a sweet treat, these scones are bound to impress with their buttery texture and delightful sweetness. Serve them warm with a dollop of clotted cream or enjoy them plain as a satisfying snack any time of day.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 large egg
• Extra maple syrup for drizzling (optional)

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter, and using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the toasted walnuts.

In a separate bowl, mix the heavy cream, maple syrup, and egg. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Turn the dough onto a floured surface, gently knead it a few times, and then pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut out scones using a sharp knife or a round biscuit cutter and place them on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

For the best texture, make sure your butter is cold before incorporating it into the flour mixture. This will create those desirable flaky layers. Additionally, resist the temptation to overwork the dough; mix until just combined to guarantee your scones don’t become tough.

If you want a richer flavor, experiment with adding a little extra maple syrup into the dough, or drizzle a bit on top right before serving for added indulgence.

Lemon Lavender Scones

Lemon Lavender Scones are a delightful addition to any tea time gathering, combining the bright zest of lemon with the aromatic floral notes of lavender. This unique flavor pairing creates not only a treat for the palate but also a feast for the senses.

The scones are light and tender, with a slightly crumbly texture that melts in your mouth, making them perfect for serving alongside clotted cream or a tangy lemon glaze.

Making Lemon Lavender Scones is surprisingly simple, requiring just a handful of ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or just want to elevate your afternoon tea routine, these scones will surely impress.

The fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen while baking will have everyone drawn in, enthusiastic to enjoy these sweet treats fresh from the oven.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: extra sugar for sprinkling

To prepare the scones, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, dried lavender, baking powder, and salt. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, incorporate the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix until just combined.

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times before patting it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter, place them on the prepared baking sheet, and sprinkle with extra sugar if desired.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Make sure to use culinary lavender, as not all lavender is safe for consumption. You can adjust the strength of the lavender flavor by varying the amount used, but be cautious as too much can overpower the scone.

If you prefer a more pronounced lemon flavor, consider adding a simple lemon glaze on top after baking by mixing powdered sugar with freshly squeezed lemon juice. Enjoy these scones warm or at room temperature with your favorite tea!

Churro Scones With Cinnamon Sugar

Churro scones combine the best elements of traditional British scones with the delightful flavors of churros, offering a sweet and comforting treat perfect for tea time. The scones have a tender crumb and are beautifully spiced with cinnamon, making them an irresistibly good choice whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or with a dollop of cream.

With buttery goodness and a crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping, these scones are bound to be a favorite among family and friends.

Baking these churro scones isn’t only simple but also brings a delightful aroma of cinnamon and sugar into your kitchen. They can be served warm alongside tea or coffee, allowing you to create a quaint and delightful tea-time experience. Additionally, they can be enjoyed as a quick breakfast or an afternoon snack, making them a versatile option for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for scone dough)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for topping)

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and mix with a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract, then stir the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined.

Gently fold in 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon for added flavor.

Transfer the dough to a floured surface, shape it into a round, and cut it into wedges or circles. Place the scones onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Once out of the oven, brush with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar topping over them while warm.

When making churro scones, it’s important not to overwork the dough as this can result in dense scones. Verify that the butter is very cold when incorporated, and try to handle the dough as minimally as possible.

Experiment with the spice blend by adding a pinch of nutmeg or using brown sugar for a deeper flavor. To guarantee maximum freshness, serve the scones immediately, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for a few days and reheated in the oven for a few minutes before enjoying.

Chocolate Chip Scones

Chocolate chip scones are a delightful treat for tea time, combining the classic scone texture with a touch of sweetness from chocolate chips. Perfectly golden on the outside and soft within, these scones can elevate any afternoon gathering, whether served plain or with a dollop of clotted cream.

They’re quite simple to prepare and can be enjoyed warm from the oven or at room temperature, allowing for a versatile tea experience.

To make chocolate chip scones, you’ll need a few basic ingredients typically found in a scone recipe, along with the chocolate chips your sweet tooth desires. This recipe is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned bakers and novices alike.

Paired with a cup of your favorite tea, these scones offer an indulgent bite that complements the tea’s flavor profile beautifully.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then stir in the chocolate chips.

In another bowl, combine the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Pour the liquid ingredients into the dry mixture and stir just until combined, being careful not to overmix.

Turn the dough onto a floured surface, gently knead it a few times, and shape it into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into triangles or use a biscuit cutter to form rounds, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish and bake for 15-20 minutes until they’re lightly browned.

When making chocolate chip scones, it’s crucial to work quickly with the butter to maintain its chill, as this helps create a light and fluffy texture.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of chocolate chips or even add chopped nuts for a different flavor profile.

If you prefer a sweeter scone, consider increasing the sugar slightly, or drizzle some melted chocolate over the finished scones for an extra touch of indulgence.

Enjoy your scones fresh out of the oven or store them in an airtight container for up to two days.

Cheddar and Chive Scones

Cheddar and chive scones are the perfect indulgence for tea time, merging the sharp, savory flavors of cheddar cheese with the delicate, fresh taste of chives. These delightful scones offer a comforting yet elegant snack that pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory accompaniments.

With their buttery texture and cheesy goodness, they’re sure to impress guests, making them a wonderful addition to any afternoon tea spread.

Making cheddar and chive scones is simple and straightforward, perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs. The dough comes together quickly, and the addition of buttermilk guarantees these scones remain moist and tender.

You’ll find that they bake up beautifully with a golden crust and a light, fluffy interior, making them irresistible fresh out of the oven.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.

Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives. Gradually add in the buttermilk, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, gently knead it a few times, and then roll it out to about 1-inch thickness. Cut into rounds with a biscuit cutter and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Brush the tops with the beaten egg and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

For the best scone results, make certain your ingredients are cold, especially the butter, as this helps create a flaky texture. Additionally, avoid overworking the dough to keep the scones light and airy.

Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties or herbs; other great options include Gruyère or fresh dill. Serve your scones warm with butter or cream cheese for a truly delightful treat that will elevate your tea time.

Blueberry Coconut Scones

Indulging in a delightful batch of Blueberry Coconut Scones is the perfect way to elevate your tea time experience. These scones are a scrumptious blend of sweet and tropical flavors, making them an enticing treat for anyone who loves berries and coconut. The juicy blueberries provide a burst of flavor, while the shredded coconut adds a wonderful texture that complements the crumbly, tender scone base.

Enjoy them fresh out of the oven, with a cup of tea or coffee, or pair them with a dollop of clotted cream for an extra indulgence.

Making blueberry coconut scones is a breeze, even for novice bakers. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply wish to treat yourself, this recipe is quick and straightforward. In just a few simple steps, you can create these delectable scones that will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Don’t forget that they’re best enjoyed the same day they’re baked, but they can also be frozen for future enjoyment!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture appears crumbly. Gently fold in the blueberries and shredded coconut. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract, then pour this mixture into the dry ingredients.

Stir until just combined, being careful not to over mix. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick, cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

For best results, use fresh blueberries for a burst of flavor and avoid overworking the dough to guarantee your scones are light and fluffy. If you like a slightly sweeter scone, feel free to add a bit more sugar.

You can also experiment by substituting half the fresh blueberries with dried cranberries or chocolate chips for a different twist. To keep the coconut flavorful and prevent burning, consider toasting it lightly before adding it to the mixture.

Enjoy your baking!

Matcha Green Tea Scones

Matcha green tea scones are a delightful twist on traditional scones, infusing the baked goods with the vibrant flavor and health benefits of matcha. This Japanese powdered green tea not only adds a unique taste but also gives the scones a beautiful green hue that can surprise and delight your tea companions.

Perfect for tea time, these scones can be enjoyed plain or dressed up with clotted cream and jam for a touch of sweetness.

The preparation method is simple, making them an excellent choice for both baking novices and seasoned chefs. With just the right balance of ingredients, the scones rise perfectly, creating a light and fluffy texture.

Whether you’re serving them at a special gathering or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, matcha green tea scones are sure to elevate your tea experience.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and matcha powder.

Add the cold, cubed butter, and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir just until combined. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, gently knead a few times, and shape into a disc about 1 inch thick.

Cut into wedges or use a round cutter and place on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 15-18 minutes or until the scones are lightly golden on top.

When baking matcha green tea scones, be careful not to overmix the dough; this can lead to tough scones.

If you want a stronger matcha flavor, feel free to adjust the amount of matcha powder, but do it gradually to avoid overpowering the scones.

Allow them to cool slightly before serving, and enjoy them fresh for the best texture.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container, and they can be gently reheated in the oven to restore their flakiness.

Pumpkin Spice Scones

As autumn approaches, the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin spice become a delightful treat, especially during a cozy tea time.

Pumpkin spice scones aren’t only easy to make, but they also fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma that captures the essence of fall. Perfectly tender and subtly sweet, these scones pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them an ideal snack for afternoon gatherings or a comforting breakfast option.

This recipe incorporates classic fall spices and real pumpkin puree, creating a rich and moist texture that differentiates these scones from the standard variety. Adding a simple glaze can elevate them even further, but they’re simply delicious on their own. Gather your ingredients and enjoy this seasonal favorite that will impress your family and friends with its delectable flavors and beautiful presentation.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, spices, and salt until well combined. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth. Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Turn the dough onto a floured surface, pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick, and cut into wedges or use a round cutter. Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.

When making pumpkin spice scones, confirm that your butter is very cold, as this helps create flaky layers in the scones. You can also experiment by adding chocolate chips or nuts to the dough for added texture and flavor.

For a festive touch, consider drizzling a simple icing made of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled scones, or sprinkle them with coarse sugar before baking for a lovely crunchy topping. Remember to store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Enjoy!