Experience the delightful fusion of traditional Irish soda bread and classic scones with this easy-to-make recipe. These scones are perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a festive treat for St. Patrick's Day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: No need for yeast or lengthy proofing times; these scones come together swiftly.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of raisins and orange zest offers a sweet and tangy taste.
- Versatile: Enjoy them plain, with butter, or your favorite jam.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 stick cold butter
- ½ cup raisins
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 cup buttermilk, plus 1 tablespoon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, orange zest, and salt.
- Incorporate Butter: Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or two knives until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in 1 cup of buttermilk and vanilla extract until just combined.
- Include Raisins: Fold in the raisins gently.
- Form Scones: On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough gently 5 to 10 times until it forms a shaggy consistency. Using a ⅓ cup measuring cup or cookie scoop, place mounds of dough onto a prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Prepare for Baking: Cut a small "X" on the top of each scone. Brush the tops with the remaining tablespoon of buttermilk and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake: Bake for 13-15 minutes or until the scones are golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the scones to cool slightly before serving warm.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: Approximately 8 scones
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Dried Fruits: Substitute raisins with currants, dried cranberries, or chopped dried apricots for a different flavor profile.
- Nuts: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture.
- Spices: Incorporate spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the scones' warmth.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Freeze scones in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: To reheat, wrap scones in foil and warm in a 325°F (163°C) oven for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture.
FAQs
What is the origin of Irish soda bread?
Irish soda bread originated in Ireland in the 19th century as a simple, quick bread made without yeast, using baking soda as a leavening agent.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the scones may be denser. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
What can I use if I don't have buttermilk?
You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
How do I prevent scones from becoming too dry?
Ensure not to overmix the dough and avoid adding too much flour during kneading. Also, baking for the recommended time helps retain moisture.
Can I omit the orange zest?
Yes, the orange zest adds a subtle citrus flavor, but you can omit it if preferred.
Are these scones suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the baked scones and reheat them as needed.
What toppings go well with these scones?
Butter, clotted cream, and various jams or marmalades pair well with these scones.
Can I add fresh fruits instead of dried?
Fresh fruits can add extra moisture, which may affect the scones' texture. If using fresh fruits, consider adjusting the dry ingredients accordingly.
How can I make the scones gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a direct substitute for regular flour.
Why is there a cross cut on top of the scones?
Traditionally, a cross is cut on top of soda bread to help it bake evenly and to ward off evil spirits, according to Irish folklore.
Conclusion
These Irish Soda Bread Scones offer a delightful twist on traditional soda bread, combining ease of preparation with rich flavors.
Irish Soda Bread Scones
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Irish Soda Bread Scones combine the classic flavors of traditional soda bread with the tender, crumbly texture of scones. Made with raisins, orange zest, and buttermilk, they're perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a festive treat.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 stick cold butter
- ½ cup raisins
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 cup buttermilk, plus 1 tablespoon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt, and orange zest.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in 1 cup of buttermilk and vanilla extract until just combined.
- Gently fold in the raisins.
- On a floured surface, knead the dough lightly 5-10 times. Use a ⅓ cup scoop to place mounds of dough onto a baking sheet.
- Cut a small "X" on top of each scone, brush with remaining buttermilk, and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake for 13-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Substitute raisins with dried cranberries or currants for variety.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
- To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 325°F oven for 5 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
