There’s something wonderfully comforting about the smell of fresh scones baking in the oven. If you’re new to baking or just short on time, these simple scones are your perfect entry into the world of homemade delights. Light, fluffy, and utterly charming, they’re ready in a snap and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s tea time or just a cozy snack.

This classic scone recipe uses basic ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. And trust me, the results taste anything but basic. Pair them with jam and cream, or enjoy them plain with your favorite cup of tea.

Why You’ll Love These Simple Scones

Just five ingredients and one bowl
Done in 30 minutes from start to finish
Great for beginner bakers
Perfect tea time treat or brunch addition

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 3/4 cups (225 g) self-raising flour
3 1/2 tablespoons (50 g) unsalted butter, diced and chilled

1 tablespoon (12 g) caster sugar
1 pinch salt
2/3 cup (150 ml) milk

How to Make These Quick Scones

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, sift together flour, salt, and sugar.

Add diced cold butter. Rub it in with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
Pour in milk and stir gently until a soft dough forms.

Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll out to 3/4 inch (2–3 cm) thick.
Cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter and place on the prepared tray.
Brush tops with a little milk for that golden finish.

Bake for 15 minutes until risen and lightly golden.
Cool on a wire rack and serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Foolproof Easy Baking

Keep everything cold—especially the butter.
Don’t overwork the dough. Gentle hands make light scones.
Use a sharp cutter and press straight down to help them rise evenly.
Want to jazz them up? Add a handful of raisins, currants, or chocolate chips.

A Tea Time Tradition at Home

I made these one afternoon when the craving for something warm and buttery hit hard. No fancy ingredients, no mixer, just a quiet moment in the kitchen and a tray of golden scones to show for it. We ate them warm with jam and cream, and suddenly, it felt like a proper tea party—even if the “party” was just me and my dog.

What to Serve with These Simple Scones

Strawberry jam and clotted cream (the classic)
Honey or lemon curd
A dollop of butter with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar
Your favorite black tea or even a chai latte

Storage Tips

Best enjoyed the same day, slightly warm
Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 2 days

Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes
Freeze baked scones for up to 2 months and reheat before serving

FAQs About This Classic Scone Recipe

Can I use plain flour instead of self-raising?

Yes, just add 2 tsp baking powder for each cup of plain flour.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Substitute dairy-free butter and plant-based milk.

Why didn’t my scones rise?

Your dough might’ve been overworked, or the oven not fully preheated.

Simple and Sweet, Anytime You Need It

These simple scones are proof that easy baking can be wonderfully rewarding. With a crisp top and fluffy inside, they’re ready to make any ordinary moment feel a little more special. Keep this one in your back pocket—because good scones never go out of style.

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Quick and Easy Simple Scones: A Classic Scone Recipe for Everyday Joy

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Author: Amanda Hartwellen
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 8–10 scones 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These quick and easy simple scones are light, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion—from afternoon tea to cozy weekend brunch. With just five basic ingredients and no complicated steps, this classic scone recipe is ideal for beginner bakers and anyone craving a homemade treat that’s done in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

1 3/4 cups (225 g) self-raising flour
3 1/2 tablespoons (50 g) unsalted butter, diced and chilled

1 tablespoon (12 g) caster sugar
1 pinch salt
2/3 cup (150 ml) milk

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, and salt.
Add cold, diced butter and rub it into the flour with fingertips until crumbly.

Stir in milk gently until a soft dough forms.
Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 3/4 inch thickness.

Cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter and place on baking tray.
Brush tops with milk for a golden finish.

Bake for 15 minutes, or until risen and lightly golden.
Cool on a wire rack and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Keep ingredients cold to ensure flaky texture.

Don’t overmix the dough for best rise.

Optional add-ins: raisins, currants, or chocolate chips.

These scones are best served fresh but can be frozen and reheated.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Baked Goods
Method: Baking
Cuisine: British