Scones with Jam and Cream: The Perfect Recipe for a Classic Treat

Scones with jam and cream are a delightful treat that transports me straight to the charming tea rooms of England. These fluffy, buttery pastries have a rich history, often associated with the traditional British afternoon tea, which dates back to the early 19th century. The combination of warm scones, sweet jam, and luscious cream creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. I love how scones with jam and cream can be enjoyed at any time of day, whether as a comforting breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack. Their versatility and ease of preparation make them a favorite among both novice and experienced bakers alike. Join me as we explore the art of making these delectable scones, perfect for sharing with friends and family!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Jam of your choice (strawberry, raspberry, etc.)
• Clotted cream or whipped cream

Preparing the Dough

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your scones will bake evenly and rise beautifully. 2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Whisk them together until they are well blended. This step is crucial as it helps to aerate the flour and evenly distribute the baking powder. 3. **Cut in the Butter**: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. You want to see small pea-sized pieces of butter throughout the mixture. This will create flaky layers in your scones. 4. **Combine Wet Ingredients**: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. The egg adds richness, while the milk provides moisture. 5. **Form the Dough**: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently mix until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. If the dough feels too dry, you can add a splash more milk.

Shaping the Scones

6. **Turn Out the Dough**: Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Gently knead the dough a few times, just until it holds together. Again, avoid overworking it to keep the scones tender. 7. **Roll and Cut**: Pat the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick. Using a sharp knife or a pastry cutter, cut the dough into 8 wedges. Alternatively, you can use a round biscuit cutter for a more traditional scone shape. If you do, make sure to press straight down without twisting to ensure they rise properly. 8. **Prepare for Baking**: Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one. If you like, you can brush the tops with a little milk or an egg wash (1 egg beaten with a tablespoon of water) for a golden finish.

Baking the Scones

9. **Bake**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning. 10. **Cool**: Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important as it helps maintain their texture.

Serving the Scones

11. **Prepare the Toppings**: While the scones are cooling, gather your jam and cream. If you’re using clotted cream, it’s best served at room temperature, so take it out of the fridge ahead of time. If you’re using whipped cream, you can whip it up now if you haven’t already. 12. **Slice the Scones**: Once the scones are cool enough to handle, slice them in half horizontally. You can use a serrated knife for a clean cut. 13. **Add Jam and Cream**: Spread a generous layer of your chosen jam on the bottom half of each scone. Then, add a dollop of clotted cream or whipped cream on top. If you’re feeling indulgent, you can add more jam on top of the cream! 14. **Enjoy**: Place the top half of the scone back on and serve immediately. These scones are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days. Just reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their freshness.

Tips for Perfect Scones

– **Use Cold Ingredients**: Keeping your butter

Conclusion:

In summary, this scones with jam and cream recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and richness. The light, fluffy texture of the scones paired with the luscious jam and creamy topping creates a heavenly experience that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a sweet snack, these scones are versatile enough to fit any occasion. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your scones with a variety of jams—strawberry, raspberry, or even a zesty lemon curd can elevate the flavor profile. You can also experiment with different types of cream, such as clotted cream or whipped cream, to find your perfect match. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some fresh fruits like berries or slices of banana on top for an extra burst of flavor. I encourage you to give this scones with jam and cream recipe a try and share your experience with me! I would love to hear how they turned out for you and any unique twists you added. Remember, baking is all about creativity and having fun, so don’t hesitate to make it your own. Happy baking!

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