Scones

[baisleac.livejournal.com]

For melilot_hill

Simple Scones

2-1/2 c. flour
1 Tbsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 c. salted butter, softened (1 stick)
1/4 c. granulated sugar
2/3 c. milk (or until consistency is that of American biscuits)

Heat oven to 375° F. Mix flour, baking powder and salt in a large bowl. Add butter and cut until mix appears granulated. Mix in sugar. Add milk and stir until a soft dough forms. Form dough into ball and flatten, by hand, on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 6-8 wedges and place on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a wedge comes out clean.

Yummy variations

Replace 1/2 c. of the flour with oats, course wheat, or other grain and reduce milk by 1 Tbsp.

When adding sugar:

Add a 1/2 c. diced dried fruit

Add a 1/4 c. finely ground nuts

Add a 1/2 c. coarsely ground nuts

Add 1 to 2 tsp. cinnamon, nutmeg, or other baking spice

Add 1 tsp. vanilla powder

When adding milk:

Add a 1/2 tsp. vanilla or other extract

Reduce milk to 1/2 c. and add 1/3 c. plain yogurt or sour cream.

Replace milk with buttermilk or light cream.

Use these variations in any combination that appeals to you. One of my favorites uses dried apricots, sliced almonds, vanilla, and light cream.