Breakfast Scones with Jam and Cream

There’s something truly comforting about a warm, buttery Breakfast Scone with Jam and Cream — it’s the kind of morning treat that feels indulgent yet homey, simple yet elegant. Originating from the classic British tea-time tradition, scones are tender, crumbly pastries that sit perfectly between a biscuit and a cake.

Freshly baked and split open, each scone becomes the perfect base for a generous dollop of fruit jam and a soft cloud of whipped cream or clotted cream. Whether served at breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea, these scones bring a sense of warmth and sophistication to your table.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it embodies everything I adore about homemade baking — simplicity, aroma, and comfort. The scent of butter and freshly baked dough filling the kitchen feels nostalgic and cozy.

The texture is soft on the inside with a lightly crisp golden top, and when paired with jam and cream, every bite melts in your mouth.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Quick and easy: No yeast, no resting — just mix, bake, and enjoy.
• Classic and versatile: Perfect with any jam, curd, or cream.
• Beautiful texture: Crisp on top, tender and flaky inside.
• Pairs with everything: Tea, coffee, or a full breakfast spread.
• Make-ahead friendly: Store, freeze, and reheat easily.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 8 scones
• Calories: ~250 kcal per scone (with jam and cream ~350 kcal)

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: British / European
• Course: Breakfast / Brunch / Tea-time

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2½ teaspoons baking powder
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

• ½ cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• ¾ cup (180ml) milk (whole milk or buttermilk)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

For Serving:

• Strawberry or raspberry jam
• Whipped cream or clotted cream

Optional Toppings:

• 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk (for brushing)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling on top before baking)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter using fingertips or a pastry cutter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually pour in milk and vanilla, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to 1-inch thickness and cut into rounds.
6. Place on baking sheet, brush tops with cream, and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
7. Let cool slightly, then serve warm with jam and cream.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Line a baking tray with parchment paper and lightly dust with flour.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Add Butter

• Add cold cubed butter into the flour mixture.
• Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to rub the butter into the flour until it looks like coarse breadcrumbs.
  (Cold butter is key — it helps create that flaky texture!)

Step 4: Mix the Dough

• Slowly pour in milk (and vanilla, if using).
• Stir gently with a fork or spatula until the dough comes together — it should be soft but not sticky.
• Do not overmix; this keeps the scones light and fluffy.

Step 5: Shape the Scones

• Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to about 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick.
• Use a round cutter (about 2½ inches wide) to cut out scones. Re-roll scraps gently if needed.

Step 6: Bake

• Arrange scones on the prepared baking tray, leaving a bit of space between them.
• Brush the tops with a little milk or cream and sprinkle with sugar for shine and crunch.
• Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

• Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly.
• Split open while warm and serve with jam and cream.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve the scones warm, split in half, and topped generously with strawberry jam and whipped cream.

• Enjoy them with a cup of English breakfast tea, cappuccino, or latte.
• For a brunch spread, pair with fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, or smoked salmon.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use cold butter and cold milk — this ensures flaky, tender scones.
• Handle the dough gently; overworking it makes scones tough.
• You can add a handful of currants, raisins, or chocolate chips for variety.
• For extra richness, substitute part of the milk with heavy cream or buttermilk.
• Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations

1. Cheese and Herb Scones: Replace sugar with ½ teaspoon salt and add ½ cup grated cheddar and 1 tablespoon chopped chives.
2. Lemon Blueberry Scones: Add lemon zest and ½ cup fresh blueberries to the dough.
3. Whole Wheat Scones: Use half whole wheat flour for a heartier, rustic texture.
4. Vegan Version: Substitute butter with vegan margarine and milk with almond or oat milk.
5. Glazed Scones: Drizzle with a light sugar glaze once cooled for a bakery-style finish.

Freezing and Storage

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 4 days when sealed tightly.
• Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven (350°F / 175°C) for 5–6 minutes or microwave for 20–30 seconds.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Round biscuit/scone cutter
• Baking tray with parchment paper
• Pastry brush

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make these scones ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, shape the scones, and refrigerate them overnight. Bake fresh the next morning.

Q2: What’s the best flour for scones?
All-purpose flour works best. You can also use self-rising flour by omitting the baking powder and salt.

Q3: Why did my scones turn out dense?
Overmixing the dough or using warm butter can make scones dense. Always use cold ingredients and handle dough gently.

Q4: What’s the difference between clotted cream and whipped cream?
Clotted cream is thicker and richer (common in the UK), while whipped cream is lighter and more airy. Both work beautifully!

Q5: Can I use plant-based milk?
Absolutely — almond, oat, or soy milk work fine for dairy-free versions.

Conclusion

Breakfast Scones with Jam and Cream are the perfect blend of tradition and comfort — tender, buttery, and utterly delightful. Whether you’re making them for a cozy breakfast, a weekend brunch, or afternoon tea, they never fail to impress.

With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can bring a touch of British elegance to your table.Once you taste that perfect bite — flaky scone, sweet jam, and luscious cream — you’ll understand why this recipe is a timeless classic and an absolute must-try for every home baker.