There’s something truly magical about a freshly baked batch of Strawberry Buttermilk Scones—the way the tender, buttery crumb gives way to juicy pockets of strawberry, the subtle tang of buttermilk, and the golden, sugar-sparkled crust that shatters just so with every bite. These scones are the epitome of a cozy morning treat or an afternoon pick-me-up, bursting with real fruit flavor and just the right amount of sweetness. If you’re on the hunt for a recipe that’s as simple to prepare as it is delightful to eat, this is the one you’ll want to bake again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of everyday ingredients come together to create scones that rival any bakery. Each element plays its part—adding flavor, tenderness, or a pop of color—to make these Strawberry Buttermilk Scones truly special.
- All-purpose flour: The sturdy base that keeps the scones light yet substantial.
- Granulated sugar: Just enough to sweeten the dough and help create that irresistible golden crust.
- Baking powder: The secret to achieving that lofty, bakery-style rise.
- Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes): Ensures the scones bake up flaky and rich; keep it cold for the best texture.
- Buttermilk (plus more for brushing): Adds a gentle tang and incredible tenderness—don’t skip it!
- Vanilla extract: Brings a cozy aroma and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Fresh strawberries (diced): Bright pops of sweetness and color in every bite—use the ripest berries you can find.
- Coarse sugar for topping (optional): Sprinkling this on top creates a sparkling, crunchy finish.
How to Make Strawberry Buttermilk Scones
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Heat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step keeps your scones from sticking and makes clean-up a breeze, so you can focus on the delicious results.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisking not only combines everything evenly but also helps aerate the flour for a lighter scone.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter in until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. The little bits of butter will create pockets of flakiness in your Strawberry Buttermilk Scones.
Step 4: Blend Wet Ingredients
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and vanilla extract. This duo adds moisture and that signature tang, ensuring the scones are never dry.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Pour the buttermilk mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Then, lovingly fold in the diced strawberries. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your scones tender and prevents the berries from breaking up too much.
Step 6: Shape and Cut the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick round. Use a sharp knife to cut the circle into 8 wedges. This rustic shape is classic for scones and makes serving a snap.
Step 7: Finish and Bake
Arrange the wedges on your prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with a bit of buttermilk and, if you like, sprinkle with coarse sugar for a sparkling finish. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until the scones are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool just slightly before digging in—the aroma is irresistible!
How to Serve Strawberry Buttermilk Scones
Garnishes
A warm scone is even more delightful with a pat of high-quality butter, a dollop of clotted cream, or a spoonful of your favorite strawberry jam. For an extra touch of elegance, dust with powdered sugar or add a drizzle of honey right before serving.
Side Dishes
Pair these scones with a fresh fruit salad, a bowl of creamy Greek yogurt, or a piping hot cup of tea or coffee. For brunch, they’re lovely alongside scrambled eggs or a light green salad to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack your Strawberry Buttermilk Scones on a pretty cake stand for a stunning centerpiece, or wrap them in parchment and tie with twine for charming homemade gifts. For parties, slice the scones smaller and serve as part of a festive brunch board with jams, whipped cream, and extra berries.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to have any leftovers, keep your Strawberry Buttermilk Scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’ll stay moist and flavorful, especially if you layer parchment between them to prevent sticking.
Freezing
These scones freeze beautifully! Let them cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently reheat for that fresh-baked feel.
Reheating
To warm up your scones, pop them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes. This brings back their lovely texture and makes the strawberries taste sun-kissed all over again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them a bit chewy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if that’s what you have on hand! Just be sure to dice them while still frozen and toss with a little flour before folding into the dough to prevent excess moisture.
Do I have to use buttermilk?
Buttermilk is key for that signature tang and tender crumb, but if you’re in a pinch, you can make a quick substitute by adding 2 teaspoons of lemon juice or vinegar to 3/4 cup of milk and letting it sit for a few minutes.
How do I keep my scones from spreading too much?
Keep your butter and buttermilk as cold as possible, and make sure not to overwork the dough. Chilling the shaped scones in the fridge for 10 minutes before baking can also help them hold their shape.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or even a handful of white chocolate chips would be delicious in this recipe. Just keep the total amount of mix-ins to about 1 cup for best results.
Why are my scones tough or dry?
Tough scones are usually the result of overmixing or overbaking. Stir the dough gently and bake just until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. The buttermilk and strawberries should keep them moist and tender.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something special, these Strawberry Buttermilk Scones are truly a treat worth making from scratch. Their tender crumb, juicy berries, and hint of tang are sure to win over anyone lucky enough to share them with you. Give them a try—you’ll see why they’re a favorite in my kitchen!
