Unlocking the Mystery: How to Make Perfectly Light and Airy English Scones with Clotted Cream and Jam!

The Art of English Scones: A Timeless Tradition

English scones are a staple of British cuisine, particularly when it comes to the quintessential afternoon tea. These delicate, fluffy treats have been a part of British culture for centuries, and their appeal shows no signs of waning. Whether you’re hosting a tea party, attending a hen party, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon in the park, scones are the perfect accompaniment.

To truly appreciate the art of making English scones, it’s essential to understand the history and the traditional methods involved. Scones have been a part of British baking for so long that they’ve become an integral part of various regional traditions, such as the Cornish cream tea and the Devonshire tea.

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Choosing the Right Ingredients

The key to making perfectly light and airy English scones lies in the selection of ingredients. Here are some crucial components you’ll need:

Ingredients for Classic English Scones

Flour: The type of flour used can significantly impact the texture of your scones. Paul Hollywood recommends using strong white bread flour due to its high protein content, which gives the scones a boost[2].
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Alternative: For a more traditional Cornish scone, plain flour is often preferred[1].
Baking Powder: This is a critical ingredient for leavening the scones. Use 15g to 25g depending on the recipe[1][2].
Butter: Cold, diced butter is essential for creating the flaky texture. Use about 100g to 80g of unsalted butter[1][2].
Milk and Eggs: These add moisture and richness. Use 250ml of milk and 1 to 2 eggs, depending on the recipe[1][2].
Sugar and Salt: A pinch of salt and about 100g of caster sugar balance the flavors[1].

Here’s a detailed list comparing the ingredients from two popular recipes:

Ingredient	Roddas Cornish Scones[1]	Paul Hollywood Classic Scones[2]
Flour	500g plain flour	500g strong white bread flour
Baking Powder	15g	25g
Butter	100g diced butter	80g unsalted butter
Milk	250ml	250ml
Eggs	1 egg	2 medium eggs
Sugar	100g caster sugar	80g caster sugar
Salt	Pinch of salt	Pinch of salt

The Baking Process: Tips and Tricks

Making English scones is relatively straightforward, but there are a few critical steps to ensure they turn out perfectly.

Preparing the Dough

Sieve and Mix Dry Ingredients: Start by sieving the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt into a large bowl. This ensures the ingredients are well combined and aerated[1][2].
Rub in the Butter: Using your fingertips, rub the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles a breadcrumb-like texture. This step is crucial for creating the flaky layers in your scones[1][2].
Add Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the milk and eggs to the mixture. For Roddas Cornish Scones, you’ll add the milk and mix well before turning the dough out onto a lightly floured surface to knead gently. For Paul Hollywood’s recipe, you’ll beat the eggs with the milk and sugar before adding them to the dry ingredients[1][2].

Shaping and Baking

Roll Out the Dough: Roll the dough out to a thickness of about 2.5 cm to 3 cm. This thickness helps the scones rise evenly and maintain their shape[1][2].
Cut Out Scones: Use a scone cutter to cut out rounds. It’s important not to twist the cutter, as this can prevent the scones from rising properly in the oven[2].
Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the scones with a beaten egg for a golden glaze. For an extra touch, you can chill the scones in the fridge for 20 minutes before baking to help them retain their shape[2].
Bake: Preheat your oven to 200°C (Gas Mark 6) for Roddas Cornish Scones or 220°C (Fan 200°C/Gas 7) for Paul Hollywood’s recipe. Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the scones are risen and golden brown. Avoid over-baking, as this can make the scones dry[1][2].

Serving the Perfect Scones

The final step in enjoying your English scones is serving them with the traditional accompaniments: clotted cream and jam.

The Cornish Way vs. The Devonshire Way

There’s a delightful debate between Cornwall and Devon about the correct order of applying the toppings. In Cornwall, it’s traditional to spread the jam first, followed by a generous dollop of clotted cream. In Devon, the order is reversed, with the clotted cream applied first and then the jam. Here’s what one enthusiast had to say:

“I highly recommend RODDAS CLOTTED CREAM, there is no other to match it. I’m 87 years lived in Devon ADORE RODDAS CREAM. I buy it at my local Waitrose Supermarket now in Salisbury.”[1]

Tips for the Perfect Afternoon Tea

Serve Warm: Scones are best enjoyed fresh and warm. If you’re not serving them immediately, consider warming them up in the oven for a few minutes before serving[3].
Choose the Right Jam: Traditional British flavors include strawberry or raspberry jam. For a special touch, consider making your own homemade jam[1][3].
Clotted Cream: There’s no substitute for high-quality clotted cream. Look for award-winning brands like Roddas for the best experience[1].

Here’s a practical tip for hosting an unforgettable afternoon tea:

“When hosting an afternoon tea, consider adding a few extra touches like live music or a beautiful view. It can turn a simple gathering into a special experience, much like visiting a charming tea room in the West Country.”

Making It a Special Experience

Whether you’re planning a hen party, a Saint Patrick’s Day celebration, or just a cozy day with friends, English scones can elevate any occasion.

Hen Parties and Special Gatherings

For hen parties, consider adding a baking activity where everyone can learn to make their own scones. This can be a fun and interactive way to spend the day, filled with laughter and the joy of baking together.

Visit Website for More Ideas

If you’re looking for more ideas on how to make your gathering special, visit websites that specialize in party activities and accommodations. For example, you might find inspiration for a bottomless brunch or a unique party activity that includes baking scones.

Making perfectly light and airy English scones is a skill that, with a little practice, anyone can master. Whether you’re enjoying them as part of a traditional afternoon tea, at a hen party, or during a quiet day in the park, scones are a delightful treat that brings people together.

As Paul Hollywood once said, “The Queen Mother even said they were the best scones she’d ever tasted!” With the right ingredients, a bit of patience, and some simple tips, you can create scones that would make even the most discerning baker proud.

So, take the time to learn this timeless tradition, and you’ll find that baking English scones becomes a special part of your life, filled with the joy of sharing delicious food with friends and family. Happy baking