Recipe for Fruit Scones UK: A Delightful Baking Experience

The quintessential British teatime treat, fruit scones, are surprisingly simple to make. This recipe delivers light, fluffy scones bursting with fruity goodness, perfect with clotted cream and jam. Let's dive into the ingredients and steps to achieve that perfect UK-style scone.

Ingredients for Delicious UK Fruit Scones:

This recipe makes approximately 8 scones. Adjust quantities as needed.

• 450g (3 ½ cups) self-raising flour: This is key for achieving that light and airy texture. Using plain flour will require adding a baking powder.
• 75g (⅓ cup) cold unsalted butter: Cold butter is crucial; it creates flaky layers. Use a grater or rub it into the flour.
• 50g (¼ cup) caster sugar: Provides sweetness that complements the fruit.
• 150ml (⅔ cup) milk: Use cold milk for best results. You might need a little more or less depending on the flour.
• 1 tsp baking powder (optional): Only necessary if you're not using self-raising flour.
• 150g mixed dried fruit: Use your favourite mix – raisins, sultanas, currants, cranberries all work well. Chopping larger pieces ensures even distribution.
• 1 egg (optional): For glazing, which gives a lovely golden finish.

Step-by-Step Guide: Making Perfect Fruit Scones

Follow these simple steps to bake scones like a pro:

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

• Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan/425°F/Gas Mark 7).
• Sift the flour and baking powder (if using) into a large bowl. This aerates the flour, leading to lighter scones.
• Add the caster sugar and mix well.

2. Incorporate the Butter:

• Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture.
• Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. Avoid over-mixing; some small pea-sized pieces of butter are ideal.

3. Add the Fruit:

• Gently fold in the mixed dried fruit. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the scones tough.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

• Gradually add the cold milk, mixing with a knife until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Be careful not to overmix. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough scones.

5. Shape the Scones:

• Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it.
• Gently pat the dough to a thickness of about 2cm (¾ inch).
• Use a 5cm (2 inch) round cutter to cut out scones. Don't twist the cutter; press straight down to prevent the edges from sealing and creating tough scones.

6. Bake the Scones:

• Place the scones onto a baking tray lined with baking paper.
• Brush the tops with a little beaten egg (optional) for a golden glaze.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until well-risen and golden brown.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

• Remove the scones from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
• Serve warm with clotted cream and your favourite jam.

Tips for the Perfect UK Fruit Scone:

• Cold ingredients are key: Using cold butter and milk is essential for achieving a light and fluffy texture.
• Don't overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten, resulting in tough scones. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Handle the dough gently: Avoid kneading the dough, as this will also make the scones tough.
• Use a sharp cutter: A sharp cutter will ensure clean edges and prevent the scones from sticking together.

This recipe provides a delicious foundation; feel free to experiment with different types of dried fruit and add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavour. Enjoy your homemade UK fruit scones!