These Lemonade Scones are incredibly soft, fluffy, and delightful to make! With just three ingredients, they’re a perfect quick bake for any occasion, especially for a charming afternoon tea. The addition of lemonade gives them a tender texture, without adding any lemon flavor, making them an instant hit with everyone.
Pair them with generous helpings of cream and jam for a classic treat. These scones are quick to whip up and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delightful aroma of fresh scones filling your kitchen, and serve warm for the best experience.
Full Recipe:
- 3 1/2 cups self-raising flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 cup thickened cream (heavy cream), not whipped
- 1 cup lemonade (Sprite or 7Up works too!)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 200°C/390°F (180°C fan). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Combine the flour, cream, and lemonade in a bowl. Mix until the flour is mostly combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be soft and sticky.
- Turn out onto a floured surface and gently knead the dough 3-5 times until it comes together into a disc about 1 inch thick.
- Use a 6cm/2.5-inch round cutter to cut out rounds. Press straight down and lift (don’t twist). Flour the cutter between each cut.
- Transfer the scones to the baking tray so they are just touching each other. Brush the tops lightly with milk.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until golden on top. Cool on a rack, covering with a tea towel to keep the tops soft.
- Serve warm with generous amounts of cream and jam.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 188 kcal per scone | Servings: 10 scones
Background & History
Lemonade Scones are an Australian twist on the classic British scone, which was traditionally served as part of a proper afternoon tea. The genius behind this recipe is its simplicity and the use of lemonade, which lightens the dough and provides a slight sweetness and fluffiness without overpowering the scones’ taste. It’s a shortcut method compared to the traditional recipe that involves rubbing butter into flour.
The Secret Ingredient
What sets these scones apart is the use of lemonade (or a fizzy soda like Sprite or 7Up). The carbonation in the lemonade helps the scones rise, making them airy and fluffy on the inside while still having that soft, tender crumb that everyone loves. And don’t worry, despite the name, the scones don’t taste like lemon; the lemonade simply adds a touch of sweetness and moisture.
The 3-Ingredient Magic
One of the reasons this recipe has become so popular is its simplicity. With just self-raising flour, heavy cream, and lemonade, you can create a delicious batch of scones in no time. This is perfect for beginner bakers or anyone looking for a quick and easy recipe that still has a homemade touch. Plus, there’s no need for eggs or butter – just mix, shape, and bake!
Serving Suggestions
Lemonade Scones are best served warm, fresh out of the oven. Traditionally, they’re accompanied by clotted cream and a variety of jams, such as strawberry, raspberry, or mixed berry. For an added treat, you can sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar on top or add a dollop of whipped cream alongside your jam. They pair beautifully with tea, coffee, or even a hot cup of cocoa for a cozy snack.
Variations to Try
While the classic version is a delight, you can easily customize Lemonade Scones to suit your preferences:
- Fruit Scones: Add a handful of sultanas, currants, or dried cranberries to the dough for a fruity twist.
- Herb & Savory Scones: Try adding a teaspoon of fresh chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme to the mix, and serve with a dollop of herbed cream cheese.
- Glazed Scones: Drizzle a light lemon or vanilla glaze over the top once baked for an extra touch of sweetness.
Pro Tips for Perfect Scones
- Handle with Care: Scone dough should be handled as little as possible. Overmixing can lead to dense scones, so mix just until the dough comes together.
- Keep them Close: Place the scones close together on the baking tray. This helps them rise higher and maintain their soft sides.
- Serve Fresh: While these scones can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days, they taste best when fresh. To revive them, simply warm them in the oven before serving.
Fun Fact
In Australia, scones are a beloved bake often found in bakeries, cafes, and afternoon teas, especially in the countryside. In fact, “Scone Day” events are common at schools and churches, where these fluffy delights are served as part of fundraisers or celebrations, fostering community spirit over a shared love of baking.
Nutritional Information (per scone)
- Calories: 188 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 31.5g
- Protein: 4.1g
- Fat: 4.8g
- Saturated Fat: 2.8g
- Sugar: 2.6g
- Fiber: 1g
- (Note: This nutritional breakdown does not include cream and jam toppings, so the total calorie count may be higher based on the toppings used.)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: No need for special equipment or techniques. You can have warm scones in under 30 minutes!
- Great for Sharing: Perfect for brunches, afternoon teas, or simple family gatherings.
- Soft & Fluffy: The use of lemonade gives a lovely, soft crumb that melts in your mouth.
The Tradition of Scones in Afternoon Tea
Scones have a special place in British and Australian afternoon tea culture. They originated in Scotland in the early 16th century and have since become a quintessential part of tea time. In the UK, “cream tea” is a tradition where scones are served with clotted cream and jam, typically enjoyed with a cup of black tea. The Lemonade Scone is a delightful variation that has been embraced in Australia for its ease and fluffiness, making it an all-around favorite.
Why Lemonade in Scones?
The use of lemonade in scones might seem unusual at first, but it makes perfect sense when you think of it as a source of carbonation and a hint of sweetness. The fizziness from the lemonade helps the scones to rise quickly, creating a light and airy texture that’s distinct from the denser crumb of traditional scones. This quick method eliminates the need for cutting in cold butter and is a fantastic hack for producing soft, tender scones without a lot of effort or skill.
Moreover, the lemonade imparts just the right amount of sweetness, enhancing the scones’ flavor without making them overly sweet, so they remain the perfect base for savory or sweet toppings.
Tips for a Perfect Afternoon Tea Presentation
For the ultimate afternoon tea experience, presentation is key. Here are some suggestions to create the perfect scone platter:
- Stack Your Scones High: Place your warm scones on a tiered serving tray for an elegant look. Stack them in a pyramid shape on a plate lined with a lace doily for a classic touch.
- Cream & Jam in Small Bowls: Serve your clotted cream (or whipped cream) and jam in separate small bowls with small serving spoons. Popular jams to pair with scones are strawberry, raspberry, or mixed berry.
- Fresh Fruit Garnishes: Add some visual appeal to your scone platter by garnishing it with fresh berries, mint leaves, or edible flowers.
Making Your Own Self-Raising Flour
If you don’t have self-raising flour on hand, you can make your own using plain (all-purpose) flour and baking powder. The rule of thumb is to mix 2 teaspoons of baking powder for every cup of plain flour. This DIY self-raising flour works perfectly for the scones and ensures they rise beautifully.
Choosing the Right Cream
For the best results, use thickened cream or heavy cream, as it adds a rich flavor and moisture to the dough. While some recipes may use regular cream, full-fat versions are preferable for achieving the optimal soft crumb inside the scones. Lower-fat creams may not provide the same level of tenderness and can lead to a less satisfying result.
Storage & Freezing Tips
Lemonade Scones are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
- Room Temperature: Store scones in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To serve, reheat them briefly in the oven (around 150°C/300°F for 5-7 minutes) to refresh their texture.
- Freezing: To freeze scones, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw and reheat in the oven until warm.
Creative Scone Topping Ideas
While the classic combination of clotted cream and jam is unbeatable, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy Lemonade Scones:
- Honey & Butter: A drizzle of honey and a pat of salted butter add a sweet and savory twist.
- Nut Butter & Fresh Fruit: Spread almond or peanut butter on your scones and top with slices of banana, strawberries, or blueberries for a fruity, protein-packed treat.
- Savory Spin: Use cream cheese with smoked salmon, dill, and capers for a unique savory option. You can also add a little garlic butter for a more indulgent twist.
Pairing Your Scones
A well-made scone deserves a delicious drink to complement it! Here are some pairing ideas for different occasions:
- Classic Tea Time: Pair your scones with a classic black tea like Earl Grey, Darjeeling, or English Breakfast. The robust flavors of the tea balance well with the sweetness and richness of the scones.
- Herbal Infusions: For a caffeine-free option, serve with a soothing herbal infusion like chamomile, lavender, or a fruity hibiscus tea. The floral notes can enhance the flavor of your scones.
- Coffee & Cocoa: If you’re serving scones as a morning or brunch treat, they pair wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich hot cocoa topped with whipped cream.
Lemonade Scone Origin Story
While the exact origin of the Lemonade Scone is unclear, it’s believed that this clever twist on traditional scones originated in Australia or New Zealand. Given the popularity of quick, no-fuss recipes in these regions, it’s no surprise that this 3-ingredient scone recipe became a staple in many households. The recipe allows bakers of all levels to whip up a batch of scones with minimal time and ingredients, which is why it’s so beloved today.
What Makes This Recipe So Versatile
One of the standout features of this Lemonade Scone recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re a beginner looking to bake for the first time or an experienced baker searching for a quick recipe, these scones fit the bill. You can play around with different flavors, toppings, and add-ins to make the recipe your own. Plus, they are suitable for a variety of dietary needs – use gluten-free self-raising flour for gluten-free scones, or dairy-free cream to accommodate dairy allergies.
A Fun Activity for Kids
Baking Lemonade Scones is a fantastic activity to do with children. The simple ingredients and easy mixing process make it a kid-friendly recipe that helps them get hands-on in the kitchen. Plus, they’ll love using the cookie cutter to shape the scones and watching them rise in the oven. Once baked, let them get creative with their toppings and enjoy their handiwork at the table.
Conclusion
Lemonade Scones are a quick, easy, and versatile treat that brings the charm of traditional scones with a modern twist. With just three ingredients, they bake up light, fluffy, and perfect for pairing with cream, jam, or any of your favorite toppings. Whether you’re hosting an afternoon tea, looking for a fun baking activity, or simply craving a delightful homemade snack, these scones are a go-to recipe that everyone will love. Simple to make and delicious to eat, they’re sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Enjoy every warm, soft bite!