Reviewers give our best scones 5 stars, and it’s easy to see why: If you’re looking for buttery layers, melty flavor, and lots of sweet and savory variations to customize, this scone recipe is just the ticket.

So how many variants are we talking about? Well, for team sweet, we have chocolate-cherry, apricot-ginger, cranberry-pistachio, and brown sugar-pecan. Camp savory includes bacon, cheddar and chives; ham and Swiss; pimiento cheese; and rosemary, pear and asiago. We’ve even included a tip on how to make bite-sized scones, a perfect treat for your next party or an appointment.

Our scone recipe allows for numerous riffs and customizations that will appeal to baking masters and novices alike. You might be surprised to learn that it only takes about 30 minutes to produce eight delicious, bakery-quality scones.

Learn to make scones. If you want to make an extra batch for good measure, we won’t blame you.

Ingredients for the Best Scones Ever

Our best scone base requires just six ingredients. From there, you can take it in any number of directions for sweet or savory variations. To make the best scones ever, you will need:

• All-purpose flour: Gives the scones their structure.
• Powdered sugar: Softens the base of the scones.
• Baking powder: Leavening agent to give rise to scones for a tender interior.
• Salt: Balances overall flavor.
• Butter: Adds richness and creates a flaky texture by forming layers in the dough.
• Whipped cream: Adds moisture and tenderness to scones, binding them together.

How to Make the Best Scones Ever

In just over 30 minutes, you’ll have a batch of professional-level scones fresh out of the oven and ready to enjoy. Full instructions are below, but here’s a quick recap before you get started:

• Step 1. Prepare the dough: Preheat the oven and mix the dry ingredients in a bowl. Stir in the butter until it is the size of a pea. Freeze 5 minutes. Add 3/4 cup plus 2 tbsp. cream and stir until moistened.
• Step 2. Shape: Press dough into a 7-inch round on waxed paper. Cut into 8 wedges and place 2 inches apart on a lightly greased baking sheet. Brush with remaining cream.
• Step 3. Cook: Bake until golden brown.

Our advice for the best scones

For the best scones, keep these tips in mind:

• Cold ingredients: Make sure your butter is cold and cubed before starting to ensure flaky textured scones.
• Work quickly: Quickly stir the butter into the mixture to make pea-sized pieces that stay cold. Freeze before continuing to keep the mixture cold.
• Do not overwork the dough: Stir in cream only until dough is moistened. Overworking the scones when shaping can cause a rubbery texture.
• Mark before cutting: For even corners, lightly score the cuts with your knife before cutting completely.
• Brush with cream: Before baking, brush the scones with cream for even browning and shine.
• Bake until golden brown: For crispy edges and tender middles, bake scones until golden brown.

What to serve with scones

Scones are a versatile treat perfect for brunch, afternoon tea or a quick snack on the go. Although they are traditionally accompanied by jam and clotted cream, they can also be served with breakfast staples like eggs, baconfruit salad and others brunch favorites. Enjoy them hot for breakfast or brunch, or save them for an afternoon pick-me-up with a cup of tea, coffee, or fresh orange juice.

Can I make the best scones ever?

One of the best things about making scones is that you can make them in advance. Prepare as directed, shaping dough into rounds and cutting into quarters. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to two days, or freeze in a freezer-safe zip-top bag for up to a month. You can cook them straight out of the freezer, although they may need a few extra minutes in the oven, or you can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before brushing them with cream and baking as directed.

How to Store Leftover Scones

Depending on the inclusions in your scones, store them at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container or zip-top bag. You can also freeze them for up to a month. Bring to room temperature or reheat in the microwave or preheated 350°F oven before serving.