Irish scones with butter (Printable Version)

Tender Irish scones made with cold butter and a touch of sugar for crisp golden tops.

# Ingredients Required:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 240 grams all-purpose flour
02 - 38 grams granulated sugar
03 - 8 grams baking powder
04 - 2.5 grams sea salt

→ Butter

05 - 85 grams unsalted Kerrygold butter, frozen

→ Wet Ingredients

06 - 1 large egg
07 - 120 milliliters whole milk

→ Topping

08 - Egg wash for brushing
09 - Granulated sugar for sprinkling

# Guide to Cooking:

01 - Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl until evenly distributed.
02 - Grate the cold butter with a cheese grater or cut into small cubes. Using a pastry cutter or two knives, blend the butter into the flour mixture until it forms coarse crumbs.
03 - In a small measuring cup, lightly whisk the egg then add milk to total 180 milliliters of liquid. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to maintain tender texture.
04 - Lightly flour a clean surface, transfer the dough, and knead briefly. Shape into a 2.5 centimeter thick circle and use a 6.5 centimeter cutter to cut approximately six rounds. Re-roll scraps and cut an additional one or two scones if possible.
05 - Place scones onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle lightly with sugar. Freeze the tray for 15 minutes to firm up.
06 - Preheat oven to 220°C. Remove scones from freezer and bake for 14-16 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Transfer to a wire rack to cool.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Grating frozen butter ensures small, evenly distributed pieces that enhance flakiness.
02 - Avoid overmixing dough to prevent dense, tough scones.
03 - Chilling scones before baking helps maintain shape and creates a tender crumb.