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British Scones with Orange Zest or Earl Grey Tea Recipe

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4 from 27 reviews

These British scones are delightfully fluffy and golden, infused with fragrant orange zest or Earl Grey tea leaves for a unique twist. Perfectly tender on the inside with a slightly crisp exterior, they are traditionally served warm with strawberry jam and clotted cream, making for an authentic and comforting teatime treat.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings (8 scones)

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons (40g) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons orange zest or Earl Grey tea leaves
  • 1 ¾ cup (250g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons (25g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 2 large eggs (divided)
  • ½ cup (125ml) milk

For Serving

  • Strawberry jam
  • Clotted cream

Instructions

  1. Infuse Sugar: In a small bowl, rub the orange zest or Earl Grey tea leaves into the granulated sugar to release their oils, enhancing the citrus or tea flavor that will infuse the scones.
  2. Combine Butter and Flour: In a medium bowl, add the all-purpose flour and cold, cubed butter. Use your hands to break up the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse sand, ensuring an even crumb texture.
  3. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Add the infused sugar along with salt and baking powder to the flour mixture. Crack in one egg and pour in the milk, mixing with your hands until the dough just comes together into a rough mass.
  4. Form Dough Ball: Generously flour a clean surface and turn out the dough. Fold the dough over itself about 10 times to create a cohesive, semi-smooth ball, helping develop structure without overworking.
  5. Roll and Cut: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a floured rolling pin, roll the dough to about 1 inch thick. Cut out 8 scones with a 2.5-inch round cookie cutter, then gently place them on the baking sheet spaced about 1-2 inches apart. Chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to firm up.
  6. Preheat Oven and Prepare Egg Wash: While chilling, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a small bowl, whisk the remaining egg until uniform.
  7. Brush and Bake: Brush each scone with the egg wash to promote a shiny golden crust. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the scones rise high and turn a rich golden brown.
  8. Serve: Enjoy the scones warm straight from the oven, ideally accompanied by strawberry jam and clotted cream for a traditional British experience.

Notes

  • Cold butter is essential to achieve flaky layers in the scones.
  • Rubbing the zest or tea leaves into the sugar releases more flavor compared to adding them directly.
  • Do not overwork the dough; folding gently helps keep the scones tender.
  • Chilling the shaped scones before baking helps them rise better and prevents spreading.
  • Serve scones fresh and warm for the best texture and flavor.
  • You can substitute milk with a dairy-free alternative if desired.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Category: Baking
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: British
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/british-scones-with-orange-zest-or-earl-grey-tea-recipe/