Buttermilk Scones

Buttermilk Scones are light, fluffy, and buttery pastries with a tender crumb and golden crust. Whether enjoyed plain or studded with fruit or chocolate chips, these scones are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon tea break. Made with tangy buttermilk, they strike the ideal balance between rich and delicate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These scones are incredibly easy to make and bake up with a soft interior and crisp, golden edges. Buttermilk adds a subtle tang and keeps them tender without being too sweet, making them versatile for both sweet and savory variations. You don’t need any fancy tools—just a bowl, some cold butter, and an oven to enjoy warm, homemade scones in under an hour.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Cold unsalted butter (cubed)
• Buttermilk
• Vanilla extract (optional)
• Optional mix-ins: dried fruit, fresh berries, chocolate chips, lemon zest
• Optional topping: heavy cream or buttermilk for brushing, coarse sugar for sprinkling

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in any mix-ins if using.
5. Add the buttermilk and vanilla extract (if using) and stir just until the dough comes together. Do not overmix.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead and pat it into a 1-inch thick round.
7. Cut into 8 wedges or use a biscuit cutter for round scones.
8. Place scones on the prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with cream or buttermilk and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
9. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 scones
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: About 30–35 minutes

Variations

• Berry Scones: Add 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries, raspberries, or chopped strawberries.
• Lemon Poppy Seed: Stir in 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest.
• Chocolate Chip: Fold in 3/4 cup of mini chocolate chips for a sweeter version.
• Savory Herb: Omit sugar and mix in chopped chives, shredded cheese, or cooked bacon.
• Glazed: Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze once cooled.

storage/reheating

Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave briefly until just heated through. For longer storage, freeze baked scones for up to 2 months—thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven before serving.

FAQs

What does buttermilk do in scones?

Buttermilk adds tangy flavor and reacts with baking soda to create lift, resulting in tender, fluffy scones.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape the scones and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the unbaked scones and bake straight from frozen (add a few extra minutes).

Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?

You can, but the flavor and texture may not be quite the same. For a quick substitute, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar into 1 cup of milk and let sit for 5 minutes.

Why didn’t my scones rise?

The butter may have melted before baking, or the leavening agents may have been old. Use cold butter and fresh baking powder for best results.

How do I get flaky layers?

Don’t overmix the dough, and keep the butter and dough cold. You can even chill the shaped scones before baking for flakier results.

Can I make mini scones?

Yes, divide the dough into smaller rounds or cut smaller wedges. Bake for 10–12 minutes and watch closely.

Should I use salted or unsalted butter?

Unsalted butter is preferred to control the salt level, but you can use salted—just reduce added salt slightly.

Can I add glaze to these scones?

Yes, a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice is delicious over cooled scones.

How do I prevent the scones from spreading?

Keep the dough cold and avoid overworking it. Chilling the scones before baking helps them hold their shape.

Are these scones sweet or savory?

The base recipe is lightly sweet, but you can easily adjust it for savory versions by reducing or omitting the sugar and adding herbs, cheese, or spices.

Conclusion

Buttermilk Scones are a classic bakery-style treat that you can easily make at home. With their tender crumb and crisp golden top, they’re perfect fresh out of the oven or served later with jam, butter, or a drizzle of glaze. Once you try this versatile and reliable recipe, you’ll want to keep it on hand for every brunch or cozy morning.

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