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.

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.