There is something utterly delightful about enjoying fresh, fluffy pastries in the morning, especially when they burst with the juicy sweetness of summer strawberries. This Strawberry Buttermilk Scones Recipe is one of those treasures that combine tender crumb, a hint of citrus zest, and the irresistible tang of buttermilk—all topped off with bright, fresh strawberries. Whether you’re sharing these with loved ones or indulging in a quiet moment with your coffee, these scones promise a comforting and vibrant twist on a classic treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the key to making these strawberry scones shine. Each component plays a vital role in balancing texture, flavor, and color, resulting in scones that are tender, flavorful, and irresistibly golden.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure needed for light but sturdy scones.
- â…“ cup sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to complement the strawberries without overpowering the savory notes.
- 2½ teaspoons baking powder: Ensures a beautiful rise and fluffy texture.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to create tender crumb and slight lift.
- ¾ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and elevates all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon grated orange or lemon zest: Brightens the scones with citrusy notes and courtesy a lovely aroma.
- 6 ounces butter, cut into small pieces: The magic for flakiness and a rich buttery flavor.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a tang that beautifully contrasts with the sweet strawberries.
- 4+ tablespoons diced strawberries, dried with paper towels: The star ingredient for fresh bursts of juicy sweetness in every bite.
- 2 ounces butter, melted (for brushing): Creates a shiny golden crust that’s simply irresistible.
- ¼ cup sugar (for sprinkling): Adds a pleasant crunch and subtle sparkle on top after baking.
How to Make Strawberry Buttermilk Scones Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. In a large bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and zest using a fork. This combination sets the stage for a tender, flavorful scone with just the right lift. Make sure your zest is finely grated to evenly distribute the citrus goodness throughout.
Step 2: Cut in the Butter
Add the small pieces of cold butter into the dry mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter in until the mixture looks like coarse cornmeal. This step is essential for creating light, flaky layers—those buttery pockets are what make scones so special.
Step 3: Combine Buttermilk and Strawberries
Pour the buttermilk into the butter-flour mixture, gently mixing until the dough just comes together. It’s okay if it looks slightly shaggy; overmixing can toughen the scones. If you find the dough a little dry, add an extra tablespoon of buttermilk. Finally, fold in the diced strawberries that have been gently patted dry to prevent sogginess.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Gather your dough into a ball and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it just briefly to bring everything together, then cut the dough in half. This is where the fun begins as you prepare to form those beautiful triangular scones.
Step 5: Roll and Cut
Roll one half of the dough into a 7-inch diameter circle, roughly ½ inch thick. Brush the surface with half of the melted butter and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of sugar for that irresistible crunch. Using a sharp knife, cut the circle into 6 equal triangles. Repeat this process with the second half of the dough—almost like cutting a pizza—but sweeter and more decadent.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the triangles on an ungreased baking sheet so they bake to a perfect golden brown crust. Bake for about 10 minutes or until they’re puffed and beautifully golden. The scent filling your kitchen will surely make it hard to wait for them to cool just a bit before enjoying.
How to Serve Strawberry Buttermilk Scones Recipe
Garnishes
These scones are stunning on their own, but adding a dollop of clotted cream or whipped butter alongside a drizzle of honey can truly elevate the experience. For an extra pop of color and freshness, sprinkle some finely chopped mint or a few extra diced strawberries on top right before serving.
Side Dishes
Pair your strawberry buttermilk scones with a cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee for a cozy breakfast or afternoon treat. A small bowl of mixed berries or a light fruit salad balances the richness of the scones perfectly, making for a light yet indulgent spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these scones with a sweet strawberry glaze or a cream cheese frosting for a fun twist. For a brunch setup, slice the scones and create mini strawberry shortcakes, layering with whipped cream and extra strawberries. Their rustic charm also makes them perfect for a picnic or as sweet party favors wrapped in parchment paper tied with twine.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover strawberry buttermilk scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keep them away from moisture to maintain that coveted flaky texture. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigeration can extend their life, but be mindful they might lose some of their tenderness.
Freezing
To enjoy this Strawberry Buttermilk Scones Recipe whenever cravings strike, freeze the baked scones in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They keep wonderfully for up to three months, ready to be thawed and enjoyed fresh as if just out of the oven.
Reheating
Reheat your scones gently in a 325°F oven for about 5-8 minutes, or until warm throughout. Avoid microwaving to preserve their flaky crust, as the oven brings back the scones’ original texture and aroma, making each bite just as delightful as when freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh strawberries for this recipe since frozen strawberries can add excess moisture to the dough, making the scones dense or soggy. However, if you must use frozen, thaw and drain them thoroughly, then pat dry with paper towels before adding to the dough.
What’s the role of buttermilk in this Strawberry Buttermilk Scones Recipe?
Buttermilk adds a wonderful tanginess and acidity that reacts with the baking soda to give the scones a light, tender crumb. It also enriches the flavor and contributes to their moist texture, making it an essential ingredient for this recipe.
Can I substitute the citrus zest with vanilla extract?
While vanilla is a lovely flavor, the citrus zest in this recipe provides a fresh, bright aroma that complements the strawberries perfectly. If you prefer, you could add a teaspoon of vanilla extract along with the zest, but I wouldn’t recommend skipping the zest entirely.
Is it okay to make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a few hours ahead and keep it wrapped in the fridge until ready to bake. This resting time can help the flavors meld beautifully, though allow the dough to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before rolling out for easier handling.
How can I make scones more tender?
Working quickly with cold butter and not overmixing the dough are key tips to keep your scones tender. Also, using the right amount of buttermilk ensures the perfect moisture balance. Avoid overbaking, as that can dry them out and make them tough.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Buttermilk Scones Recipe has quickly become a cherished favorite, perfect for sharing good times and cozy mornings. Its combination of fresh strawberries, tender crumb, and bright citrus zest creates a comforting treat you’ll want to bake again and again. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and savor every delicious bite!
Print
Strawberry Buttermilk Scones Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 scones
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Strawberry Buttermilk Scones are tender, flaky, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor complemented by a hint of citrus zest. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat, they feature a delightful balance of sweet and tangy with a buttery glaze finish, baked to a golden perfection.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- â…“ cup sugar
- 2½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon grated orange or lemon zest
Wet Ingredients
- 6 ounces butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk (plus 1 extra tablespoon if needed)
- 4+ tablespoons diced strawberries, dried with paper towels
For Glazing and Topping
- 2 ounces butter, melted, for brushing
- ¼ cup sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Mix Dry Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and citrus zest together, stirring with a fork to evenly distribute all the dry ingredients.
- Incorporate the Butter: Add the cold, small pieces of butter to the dry mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour mix until it resembles coarse cornmeal with pea-sized butter pieces visible.
- Add Buttermilk and Strawberries: Pour in 1 cup of buttermilk and stir until the dough just comes together. If the dough feels too dry, add another tablespoon of buttermilk. Gently fold in the diced strawberries, making sure they are evenly dispersed without crushing them.
- Form the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it briefly just to bring it into a smooth ball. Divide the ball into two equal portions.
- Shape the Scones: Roll one half of the dough into a 7-inch diameter circle about ½ inch thick. This shape will result in triangular scones after cutting.
- Brush and Sugar Topping: Brush the dough circle lightly with half of the melted butter. Sprinkle evenly with 2 tablespoons of sugar to add sweetness and a slight crunch.
- Cut into Triangles: Cut the circle into 6 equal triangles using a sharp knife or pastry cutter. Repeat the rolling, brushing, topping, and cutting process with the second half of the dough to make 12 scones total.
- Bake the Scones: Place the triangular scones on an ungreased baking sheet, leaving some space between each. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until the scones turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the scones from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Make sure to pat the strawberries dry before mixing them into the dough to avoid excess moisture that can make the scones soggy.
- Use cold butter for a flaky texture; cutting it into small pieces helps achieve the right consistency.
- You can substitute lemon zest for orange zest based on your preference for citrus aroma.
- If you prefer sweeter scones, you can increase the sugar topping slightly or drizzle with a simple glaze after baking.
- To store, keep scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
