Indulge in the delightful charm of cherry scones, a perfect addition to any tea table. These scones combine the tender crumb of traditional scones with the sweet burst of glacé cherries, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Scones are a beloved element of British afternoon tea, with their roots tracing back to Scotland. The term "scone" is believed to have originated from the Stone of Destiny (or Scone), a site where Scottish kings were crowned. Traditionally, scones were made plain or with currants, but the addition of cherries offers a deliciously sweet variation that's sure to be a hit.
Cherry scones are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. Serve them with a generous pat of butter for a simple pleasure, or elevate them with clotted cream and a dollop of your favourite jam for a more indulgent experience. Pair these scones with a pot of freshly brewed tea—Earl Grey or English Breakfast both make excellent choices.
To keep your cherry scones fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze the scones. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen scones, let them thaw at room temperature. To reheat, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the scones on a baking tray and warm them in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This will restore their lovely texture and warmth.
We hope you enjoy baking and savouring these delightful cherry scones. Whether you're hosting an afternoon tea or simply treating yourself, these scones are sure to bring a smile to your face. We'd love to hear how yours turned out—leave a comment below or share your scone photos with us on social media. And don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more scrumptious recipes!
Indulge in the perfect blend of tradition and sweetness with these cherry scones. Soft and buttery with bursts of glacé cherries, they’re ideal for any tea time or as a delightful snack. Serve warm with butter, clotted cream, and your favourite jam for an irresistible treat.
Preheat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan) or gas mark 7. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, and caster sugar.
Add the diced cold butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
Gently fold in the glacé cherries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg and mix with the milk and vanilla extract. Reserve a small amount of this mixture for glazing the scones later.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring with a knife until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently to bring it together. Pat the dough out to a thickness of about 2.5 cm. Use a 5 cm cutter to cut out scones, re-rolling the dough as necessary until all the dough is used.
Place the scones on the prepared baking tray. Brush the tops with the reserved egg and milk mixture, then sprinkle with caster sugar. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the scones are well risen and golden brown.
Servings 12
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Feel free to add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavours. For a zesty twist, add the zest of one lemon to the dough. These scones are best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for later use.
Fiona O'Sullivan is the passionate editor of Great Food Ireland, a popular blog dedicated to celebrating traditional Irish cuisine and culinary heritage. With a rich background in food writing and a deep love for Ireland's gastronomic culture, Fiona brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to her role. She curates authentic recipes, shares culinary stories, and explores the vibrant food scene across Ireland. Fiona's dedication to promoting Irish food traditions has made Great Food Ireland a beloved resource for food enthusiasts around the world.
