If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy the heart and homey flavor of classic Irish soda bread in single-serving form, you’ll absolutely adore these Irish Soda Bread Scones. They’re tender, buttery, and gently sweet, with pockets of plump currants or raisins and a delicate crunch of sugar on top. Every bite is a celebration of Irish tradition, but with the convenience and charm of a scone—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea. Whether you’re baking for St. Patrick’s Day or simply want to treat yourself to a cozy, comforting snack, you’ll find these scones impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Irish Soda Bread Scones lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building texture, flavor, and that irresistible golden crust. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:
- All-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation of the scones, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to balance the tang of buttermilk.
- Baking soda: Essential for that classic soda bread lift and subtle flavor.
- Baking powder: Works alongside baking soda to ensure the scones rise beautifully light and fluffy.
- Salt: Brings out all the other flavors and keeps the scones from tasting flat.
- Ground cinnamon (optional): Adds warmth and a cozy aroma if you want an extra hint of spice.
- Cold unsalted butter: Ensures the scones are flaky and rich—don’t skip the step of keeping it cold!
- Dried currants or raisins: Little pops of sweetness in every bite; choose your favorite or use a mix.
- Buttermilk: The classic ingredient for tenderness and a subtle tang—absolutely key for authenticity.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor and adds a soft, inviting aroma.
- Heavy cream or milk (for brushing): Helps the tops brown beautifully and gives that bakery-style finish.
- Coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional): Adds sparkle and a sweet crunch on top—highly recommended!
How to Make Irish Soda Bread Scones
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your scones don’t stick and cleanup is a breeze. This simple prep step sets you up for scone success!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if you’re feeling a little extra warmth today). Whisking ensures everything is evenly incorporated—no surprise bites of baking soda here!
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, diced butter to your dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter in until the mixture looks like coarse, crumbly sand. These butter bits are the secret to those flaky, tender layers in every scone.
Step 4: Add Currants or Raisins
Gently stir in the dried currants or raisins. This not only adds a touch of sweet chewiness but makes sure every Irish Soda Bread Scone gets its fair share of fruity goodness.
Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients and Combine
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients, stirring gently until a shaggy dough forms. Be careful not to over-mix—just bring it together until no dry flour remains.
Step 6: Knead and Shape
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Give it a gentle knead 2–3 times—just enough to pull it together. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick round. For classic wedges, slice into 8 equal pieces, or use a round cutter for a more traditional scone look.
Step 7: Top and Bake
Arrange your scones on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with cream or milk to encourage a golden finish, and sprinkle with coarse sugar if you love a little extra crunch. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until the scones are golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool just slightly before serving—warm is best!
How to Serve Irish Soda Bread Scones
Garnishes
These scones are delightful with a simple pat of salted butter, a dollop of jam, or a generous spoonful of clotted cream. For extra flair, try a drizzle of honey or a light dusting of powdered sugar—each garnish brings out a new nuance in the scone’s flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair your Irish Soda Bread Scones with a pot of Irish breakfast tea or strong coffee for a classic experience. They’re also wonderful alongside a bowl of fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a light soup for a cozy brunch spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the scones on a rustic wooden board with little ramekins of butter, jams, and honey. Stack them in a basket lined with a linen napkin for a homestyle feel, or arrange on a tiered cake stand for a charming afternoon tea party. The presentation is only limited by your imagination!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Irish Soda Bread Scones are at their very best the day they’re baked, but leftovers keep well at room temperature for up to 2 days. Store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil to keep them from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these scones freeze beautifully. Once cooled, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and pop them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months—just thaw at room temperature whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked magic, reheat scones in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 8 minutes or until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, a quick 15–20 seconds in the microwave also does the trick, though the oven will help preserve their crisp edges.
FAQs
Can I substitute the buttermilk in Irish Soda Bread Scones?
Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk, simply mix regular milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes. You can also use plain yogurt thinned with a bit of milk for a similar tangy flavor.
Can I make Irish Soda Bread Scones gluten-free?
Yes, you can swap in a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binding agent for the best texture. The result will be just as delicious and satisfying!
What’s the best way to keep scones fresh?
Keep your scones in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to enjoy them over several days, freezing is your best option—just thaw and reheat as needed for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Can I use other dried fruit or add-ins?
Of course! While currants and raisins are traditional, feel free to experiment with dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even small bits of candied ginger. Each adds a unique twist to the classic flavor of Irish Soda Bread Scones.
Are these scones sweet or savory?
Irish Soda Bread Scones strike a perfect balance: gently sweet with a hint of tang from the buttermilk and bursts of fruit. They’re equally wonderful on their own or with both sweet and savory accompaniments.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting about baking a batch of Irish Soda Bread Scones and sharing them with friends or family. They’re simple, satisfying, and packed with tradition—perfect for any day you want to add a bit of warmth to your table. Give them a try, and you’ll see why they’re a beloved favorite in my kitchen!
