If you’ve been searching for a delightful treat that perfectly balances tender flakiness with juicy bursts of fruit, this Strawberry Buttermilk Scones Recipe is absolutely going to brighten your baking repertoire. These scones boast a golden crust with a moist, buttery crumb, enriched by the gentle tang of buttermilk and studded throughout with fresh, sweet strawberries. It’s a truly comforting, yet elegant way to make any morning feel special or to impress guests at tea time. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to bake these scones again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Strawberry Buttermilk Scones Recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to create something greater than the sum of their parts. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that perfect tender crumb, light rise, and delightful sweetness with just the right hint of tang—making these scones absolutely irresistible.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the scones, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness without overpowering the natural flavor of the strawberries.
- 1 tbsp baking powder: Helps the scones rise beautifully and stay light and fluffy.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works with the buttermilk’s acidity to give a nice tender texture.
- 6 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cubed: The secret to flaky layers and a rich buttery flavor.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (plus extra for brushing): Adds moisture and a subtle, tangy depth to the scones.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together and gives the scones golden color.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic notes that elevate the flavor.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced: Packed with juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- Optional: 1 tbsp coarse sugar for sprinkling: Gives a beautiful sparkle and crunch on top.
How to Make Strawberry Buttermilk Scones Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Dry Ingredients
Begin by whisking together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda in a large mixing bowl. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents so your scones rise perfectly and develop a uniform texture.
Step 2: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, quickly work the butter into the flour until you achieve a coarse, crumbly texture resembling small peas. The cold butter is essential for that flaky, tender crumb characteristic of great scones.
Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients and Strawberries
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold everything together until just combined—be careful not to overmix. Finally, fold in the diced strawberries to evenly disperse their juicy sweetness without smashing them.
Step 4: Shape and Cut the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it gently into a 7-inch round about 1-inch thick. Cut into 8 equal wedges using a sharp knife or bench scraper. This classic wedge shape makes for beautifully rustic, easy-to-handle scones.
Step 5: Brush and Sprinkle
Transfer the wedges to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly brush the tops of the scones with buttermilk for a golden crust, and if desired, sprinkle with coarse sugar to add a sparkling, crunchy finish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the scones are puffed, golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool slightly before enjoying the warm, tender flavors.
How to Serve Strawberry Buttermilk Scones Recipe
Garnishes
Top your warm Strawberry Buttermilk Scones with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for extra richness, or add a spoonful of clotted cream or whipped cream for a classic British twist. Fresh mint leaves can also add a lovely refreshing touch and brighten the presentation.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a steaming cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee to complement the sweetness and balance the light tang in the scones. Fresh fruit salads or a simple bowl of mixed berries enhance the fresh strawberry flavor and make the experience feel wholesome and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun brunch twist, slice your scones in half and create mini strawberry shortcakes by layering with whipped cream and extra sliced strawberries. Alternatively, turn them into delightful breakfast sandwiches with cream cheese and a thin spread of strawberry jam for double the fruity goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Strawberry Buttermilk Scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their buttery texture and fresh flavor. Avoid refrigeration, as it tends to dry scones out.
Freezing
These scones freeze beautifully! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months, allowing you to enjoy a tasty treat anytime you crave.
Reheating
To revive your scones, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes. This brings back their crisp crust and warm, fluffy interior far better than a microwave would.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
While fresh strawberries are best for maintaining texture and moisture in this Strawberry Buttermilk Scones Recipe, you can use frozen ones if you thaw and drain them thoroughly first to avoid soggy dough.
Is it okay to substitute regular milk for buttermilk?
You can substitute regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s acidity, which helps tenderize the scones and activate the baking soda for rise.
Can I add other fruits instead of strawberries?
Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or chopped peaches work wonderfully, just be mindful that some fruits release more moisture and may affect the dough consistency slightly.
How do I prevent overmixing the dough?
Mix the dough just until the ingredients come together. Overmixing develops gluten and results in tough scones instead of tender, flaky ones. Gentle folding is key.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before, wrap tightly, and refrigerate. Shape and bake fresh the following day for maximum freshness and rise.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about baking from scratch, especially when it results in tender, buttery Strawberry Buttermilk Scones that feel like a warm hug with every bite. I hope this Strawberry Buttermilk Scones Recipe inspires you to create moments of joy, whether for a leisurely weekend breakfast or an elegant afternoon tea. Once you try it, these scones are sure to become a beloved staple in your baking routine!
Print
Strawberry Buttermilk Scones Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 25-28 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Strawberry Buttermilk Scones are tender, flaky, and bursting with fresh strawberries. The buttermilk adds a subtle tang that perfectly balances the sweetness, making them an ideal treat for breakfast or afternoon tea. Easy to prepare and bake, these scones offer a delightful blend of buttery richness and fruity freshness.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
Wet Ingredients
- 6 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (plus more for brushing)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Fresh Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced (about 1/2-inch pieces)
Optional
- 1 tbsp coarse sugar for sprinkling on top
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and easy cleanup.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda to evenly distribute all leavening agents and seasonings.
- Cut in the butter: Add the cold cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to quickly incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with small pea-sized pieces of butter throughout. This ensures flakiness in the scones.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Mix wet and dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the flour and butter mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the scones tender.
- Add strawberries: Carefully fold in the diced fresh strawberries, distributing them evenly without crushing.
- 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 7-inch diameter circle about 1-inch thick.
- Cut scones: Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut the circle into 8 equal wedges. Transfer the wedges onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Prepare for baking: Brush the tops of the scones with a little buttermilk to promote browning. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar on top for extra sparkle and crunch.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on the edges and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let the scones cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature with butter, clotted cream, or jam.
Notes
- For best results, keep butter cold and handle dough minimally to ensure flaky scones.
- You can substitute frozen strawberries, but thaw and drain any excess moisture before folding them in.
- These scones freeze well. Wrap them tightly and freeze; to serve, thaw at room temperature and warm slightly.
- Adjust sugar amount to taste if you prefer a less sweet or sweeter scone.
