Warm, buttery scones and a steaming cup of tea make for a delightful afternoon treat or an elegant addition to any brunch spread. These delicious pastries can seem daunting to make at first, but fear not! Our recipe for Sultana scones is here to guide you through each step, ensuring your success in the kitchen. Sultana scones are filled with plump and juicy sultanas, giving them a sweet burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these scones are sure to impress. Let’s get baking!
**Sultana Scones**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup sultanas
– 2/3 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Extra sugar (for sprinkling)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, quickly rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
4. Stir in the sultanas, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together the milk and vanilla extract. Slowly pour this mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until a shaggy dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick.
7. Using a floured round cutter, cut out scones from the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Reroll any scraps and cut out more scones until all the dough is used.
8. Brush the tops of the scones with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with a little extra sugar for a sweet crunch.
9. Bake the scones in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
10. Once baked, transfer the scones to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with a dollop of clotted cream and your favorite jam.
Sultana scones are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they are at their flakiest and most flavorful. The sweet sultanas add a lovely burst of fruitiness to each bite, making these scones perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a fancy tea party or simply looking for a cozy treat, these scones are a delicious and comforting option. So, put on a pot of tea, gather your loved ones, and savor the simple pleasure of homemade Sultana scones. Happy baking!
