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Not-Your-Coffee-Shop Scones

Source of Recipe

From "Mad Hungry: Feeding Men and Boys" by Lucinda Quinn


Recipe Introduction

"As folks who may have traveled and hitchhiked around the United Kingdom on a skimpy budget know, high tea is a filling and affordable meal, and one that includes scones. The last time I baked scones, my middle son returned home in the morning after sleeping over at a friend's house. The first thing out of his mouth was, 'Do you know how amazing it is to come home and smell fresh baking?' I did then. Teatime scones are also a quick baked good to whip up for breakfast. This recipe is very basic and traditional. Serve with butter, Devonshire cream, and jam."

List of Ingredients

â—¦ 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more if needed
â—¦ 2 teaspoons baking powder
â—¦ 1 teaspoon baking soda
â—¦ 1 teaspoon coarse salt
â—¦ 1 cup buttermilk
â—¦ 1 large egg
â—¦ 2 tablespoons sugar, plus more for sprinkling
â—¦ 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted, plus more for glazing
â—¦ â…“ cup currants or other dried fruit, cut into pieces


Recipe

Preheat the oven to 400° F. Butter or line two rimmed baking sheets.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another large bowl, beat together the buttermilk, egg, and sugar.

Stir two-thirds of the flour mixture into the buttermilk mixture. Gradually add the melted butter, incorporating it thoroughly into the mixture. Stir in the remaining flour mixture and the currants. The dough should be slightly stiff. Add a little more flour if needed.

Turn the dough out onto a clean, well-floured surface and gently knead for under a minute. (Over-kneading the dough will make it tough.) Separate the dough into three equal parts. Shape each part into a thick 5-inch circle. With a sharp knife, cut the circles into quarters. Arrange the wedges on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about an inch apart. Brush with some melted butter and generously sprinkle with sugar.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until lightly browned on top.
Serve warm or at room temperature.

Makes 12 scones