Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold butter cubes. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with small pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.
Step 4: Add the Liquid
Pour in the cold buttermilk and vanilla extract. Stir gently with a spatula or fork until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Fold the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat it into a rectangle, then fold it in half. Repeat this folding process 3–4 times to create flaky layers.
Step 6: Roll Out
Pat the dough into a round or rectangle about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick.
Step 7: Cut the Scones
Using a 2½-inch round biscuit cutter, cut out the scones. Press straight down without twisting to help them rise evenly.
Step 8: Arrange on the Baking Tray
Place the scones on the prepared baking tray so they’re just barely touching for softer sides, or leave space between them for crispier edges.
Step 9: Brush the Tops
Brush the tops with milk or cream for a beautiful golden finish.
Step 10: Bake
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the tops are puffed and golden brown.
Step 11: Finish
Remove from the oven and brush with melted butter for extra richness, if desired.
Step 12: Serve
Serve warm with:
- Butter
- Strawberry or raspberry jam
- Clotted cream
- Honey
- Lemon curd
- Fresh berries
Tips
- Keep the butter very cold for the flakiest texture.
- Avoid overworking the dough, or the scones may become dense.
- Freeze the unbaked scones for 15 minutes before baking for an even better rise.
- Add raisins, chocolate chips, dried cranberries, blueberries, or shredded cheese for delicious variations.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Enjoy these soft, flaky, buttery Eggless Scones fresh from the oven with your favorite toppings and a hot cup of tea or coffee! ☕🧈🥐
