Description
Irish soda bread scones combine the heartiness of traditional Irish soda bread with the light, flaky texture of classic scones. Made with buttermilk, baking soda, and cold butter, they come together easily without yeast. The addition of raisins and orange zest adds a subtle sweetness and citrusy aroma, making them perfect for breakfast or tea time.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- ½ cup raisins or golden raisins
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk (for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add cubed cold butter and cut it into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour in the buttermilk and vanilla extract, then gently mix until just combined.
- Fold in the raisins and orange zest without overmixing.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead lightly.
- Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick circle and cut into 8 wedges or circles.
- Place the scones on the baking sheet, brush with buttermilk, and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before serving with butter, clotted cream, or jam.
Notes
For extra flakiness, freeze the butter for 10 minutes before cutting it in. Avoid overmixing to keep the scones light and tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
Keywords: Irish soda bread scones, St. Patrick’s Day, breakfast scones