Irish scones with butter

This recipe for Irish scones is perfect when you want a quick, comforting baked good to enjoy with tea or breakfast. The scones come out tender and buttery with a delicate crumb that reminds me of mornings spent in cozy kitchens on rainy weekends.

I discovered this method when I wanted a traditional Irish treat without fuss. It quickly became a Sunday morning staple for us.

Ingredients

• Two cups all-purpose flour: provides the structure fresh flour works best to avoid a stale taste
• Three tablespoons granulated sugar: balance the dough with a touch of sweetness
• Two teaspoons baking powder: act as the leavening agent to give the scones lift
• Half teaspoon sea salt: enhances overall flavor choose a fine grain for even mixing
• Six tablespoons frozen unsalted Kerrygold butter: using high-quality Irish butter really lifts the flavor and richness
• One large egg: binds the dough and adds moisture
• Half cup whole milk: softens the dough and contributes tenderness
• Egg wash and a sprinkle of sugar on top: ensure a golden shiny crust with a hint of crunch

Instructions

Build The Dry Mix:

Whisk together flour sugar baking powder and salt in a large bowl until fully combined this ensures even distribution of ingredients

Incorporate The Butter:

Grate the cold butter using a cheese grater into the flour mixture if you don’t have a grater cut into small cubes. Use a pastry cutter or two knives to blend until the mixture has coarse crumbly texture this step is critical for creating flaky layers

Mix The Wet Ingredients:

In a small cup whisk the egg then add milk until you have three quarters of a cup total liquid. Pour into the flour mixture and mix gently just until the dough comes together overmixing can make scones tough

Shape The Dough:

Lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough a few times to bring it together. Shape into a circle about one inch thick then use a two and a half inch cutter to cut out six rounds re-roll scraps carefully to cut one or two more scones

Prepare For Baking:

Place scones on a parchment lined baking sheet brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar. Freeze for fifteen minutes to help them hold shape and get a better rise

Bake And Cool:

Preheat oven to four hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit take scones out of the freezer and bake for fourteen to sixteen minutes until golden on top and a toothpick comes out clean. Transfer to a wire rack to cool

My favorite part has always been the buttery crust with just enough crunch from the sugar on top. These scones remind me of visiting my grandmother who always had fresh baked goods ready and the house smelling wonderful.

Storage Tips

Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven to restore crispness. You can freeze unbaked portions as directed and bake directly from frozen for convenience.

Ingredient Swaps

If you prefer a lighter option try using half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose though texture will be a bit denser. You can substitute heavy cream for milk for extra richness or use cultured buttermilk for a slight tang.

Serving Ideas

Split warm scones and serve with butter jam or clotted cream. They also work well alongside hearty soups or a simple salad for a cozy meal any time of day.

Enjoy these scones fresh from the oven or warmed with your favorite spread for a truly comforting treat.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ Why use frozen butter grated into the flour?

Grating frozen butter allows it to blend quickly with the flour, creating small pieces that melt during baking. This forms flaky layers and a tender texture in the baked scones.

→ Can I substitute whole milk with a different liquid?

Whole milk contributes to a richer crumb, but you can use buttermilk or a dairy-free milk alternative. Just keep liquid amounts similar to maintain dough consistency.

→ Why is the dough only mixed until just combined?

Overmixing develops gluten which makes scones dense and tough. A gentle mix keeps the crumb light and flaky.

→ What is the purpose of the egg wash and sugar topping?

Brushing with egg wash adds color and shine while a sprinkle of sugar creates a delicate crunch and subtle sweetness on the crust.

→ Why chill the scones before baking?

Cooling the shaped dough firms the butter and helps the scones maintain shape. It also encourages a better rise in the oven.