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Easy Raisin Scones: A British Classic

Scones are a quintessential aspect of British tea culture, offering a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea. Among the many variations, raisin scones stand out for their simple yet satisfying sweetness, making them a favourite for both afternoon tea and breakfast. This article will guide you through a straightforward recipe for easy raisin scones, ensuring you can whip up a batch in no time.

The History of Scones

The origins of the scone can be traced back to Scotland in the 1500s, where they were first made as a round flatbread baked on a griddle. Over the centuries, they evolved into the lighter, sweeter version we know today, often enriched with ingredients like raisins, currants, and other dried fruits. Traditionally served with clotted cream and jam, scones have become a staple of cream tea, especially in the picturesque tearooms of the UK.

Ingredients

To make these delicious raisin scones, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 225g plain flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 50g unsalted butter, cold and diced
• 50g caster sugar
• 150ml milk
• 100g raisins
• A pinch of salt
• Optional: a beaten egg for glazing

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 220°C (200°C for fan ovens) or 425°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the plain flour, baking powder, and salt. This step aerates the flour and ensures that your scones are light and fluffy.

3. Rub in the Butter: Add the cold, diced butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. This technique is crucial for achieving a tender texture.

4. Add the Sugar and Raisins: Stir in the caster sugar and raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

5. Combine with Milk: Make a well in the centre of the dry ingredients and pour in the milk. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gently mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to over-knead; you want to handle the dough as little as possible to keep the scones light.

6. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a round shape, about 2-3cm thick. Using a floured cutter (typically 5-7cm in diameter), cut out rounds. Gather the scraps and re-pat them to make more scones.

7. Bake: Place the scone rounds onto the prepared baking tray, ensuring they are spaced apart for even baking. If you’d like a golden finish, brush the tops with a bit of beaten egg. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the scones are risen and golden brown.

8. Cool and Serve: Once baked, transfer the scones to a wire rack to cool slightly. They are best served warm and can be accompanied by clotted cream and strawberry jam for a classic touch.

Tips for Perfect Scones

• Use Cold Ingredients: Cold butter and milk help to create a flaky texture, so ensure they are chilled before use.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: The key to tender scones lies in minimal handling. Mix and shape the dough quickly to keep them light.
• Experiment: While this recipe focuses on raisins, feel free to experiment with other dried fruits, such as currants, cranberries, or even chocolate chips for a twist.

Conclusion

Easy raisin scones are an excellent addition to any baking repertoire, embodying the traditional flavours of British cuisine. Whether enjoyed during a leisurely afternoon tea or as a delightful breakfast treat, these scones are sure to impress family and friends alike. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can bring a taste of Britain into your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try;you’re bound to savour every mouthful!

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