Discover how to make easy 3-ingredient scones with this quick and foolproof recipe. Perfect for beginners, these scones are soft, fluffy, and ready in minutes. Learn about the fun variations of serving suggestions like lemon or cheese scones.

Who doesn’t love a warm, fluffy scone fresh out of the oven? If you are craving a quick homemade treat, this 3 ingredient scone recipe is perfect for you. With just self-rising flour, cream, and lemonade, you will have bakery quality scones in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive into the simplest scone recipe you will ever need.

Why Make 3 Ingredient Scones?

This scone recipe is a lifesaver for anyone who has ever thought, “I want something homemade, but I don’t want to work for it.” With just three basic ingredients there is no fancy shopping list needed, you can whip up these light fluffy scones faster than you can say “drive-thru breakfast.” And the best part is that these scones are like a blank canvas. You can keep it sweet with a little jam or go savory with cheese. Either way, you are about to look like a pro baker without actually being one.

Easy Scones Ingredients

Here’s the shopping list for 3 ingredient scones.

Self-Rising Flour #1 – This stuff is like the superhero of flours, with the perfect mix of baking powder already in it. It is what makes these scones soft and airy without needing any extra ingredients. Just measure and go, no need to fuss with extra leavening agents.

Cream #2 – Rich, creamy, and indulgent, this is what gives these scones their irresistible flavor. The cream not only adds moisture but also brings that slight buttery taste that makes each bite feel extra satisfying. Plus there is no no butter cutting or softening needed, so it’s faster and less messy.

Lemonade #3 – Here is the secret twist… a can of Lemonade. Lemonade adds a hint of sweetness and a little fizz that helps the scones puff up beautifully in the oven. Its a shortcut to that perfect rise, giving you fluffy scones without needing eggs or sugar. Plus, who doesn’t love a splash of lemony sweetness?

Cooking Scones Tips and Tricks

Tips for Handling Sticky Dough Without Overworking It
Scone dough is naturally a bit sticky and that’s a good thing. If it sticks to your hands, don’t panic. Instead of kneading it to death (which makes the scones tough and heavy), just sprinkle a bit of flour on your hands and the work surface. Gently fold the dough a few times until it holds together. The less you handle it, the fluffier the scones will be. Remember, you’re not making bread here; a light touch is all you need!

Common Mistakes to Avoid (Like Adding Too Much Flour)
When you see sticky dough, it’s tempting to keep adding flour until it feels “right,” but that’s actually a recipe for dry, dense scones. Stick to the measured amount as much as possible. Adding extra flour makes the dough heavy which means your scones won’t get that beautiful rise and fluffiness. Instead try using a pastry scraper to lift the dough if it’s sticking or dust your hands lightly. Resist the urge to dump in more flour!

How to Achieve the Ideal Scone Texture (Flaky and Tender)
The secret to flaky scones is minimal handling and the right bake time. As you shape the dough, don’t press it down too hard or twist your cutter (just a quick, firm press works best). And bake until they are just golden. Over baking dries scones one.

With these tricks you will get scones that are perfectly flaky on the outside and tender on the inside. They will be light enough to break apart but sturdy enough to hold a dollop of jam or cream. Perfect!

Scones Recipe Plain Variations

Classic plain scones have a timeless appeal. With no added flavors, these are ideal for piling high with toppings. But if you want to remix them, here are some ideas to tweak the flavors.

Lemon Scones Recipe Remix

For a fresh zesty twist, try adding grated lemon zest right into the dough. The zest adds a bright citrusy kick that complements the lemonade base perfectly. If you are a fan of sweeter scones, toss in a touch of sugar to balance out the tartness. Serve these with a dollop of lemon curd and you have got a deliciously tangy treat that is perfect with tea or impressing your British friends.

Easy Orange Scones Recipe

Similar to the mentioned Lemon remix, orange scones are a delightful twist on the classic recipe. Again simply add fresh orange zest to the dough. This will infuse the scones with a zesty fragrant kick. You can also add orange juice to the dough for a richer, more intense flavor. For extra sweetness, you can mix in a little sugar or drizzle an orange glaze on top once they are baked. Orange scones will leave a citrusy aroma as they bake making your kitchen smell amazing.

Scones Recipe Cheese

For a savory option cheese scones are where it’s at. Go for a sharp cheddar or Parmesan. If you want some melty goodness mix in a bit of mozzarella in. These scones pair beautifully with savory spreads like chive butter or a bit of mustard on the side. Savory scones are a perfect snack on their own or as a side for soup or chili.

Scones Serving Suggestions

Keeping it simple? Think clotted cream and strawberry jam for a traditional British vibe, or go for butter and honey if you are feeling sweet. Scones are a blank canvas, so load them up however you like. Here are some recommendations below.

• Classic Clotted Cream and Jam The ultimate traditional pairing. Try strawberry or raspberry jam for a sweet, fruity contrast. But feel free to try all other jams imaginable also.
• Butter and Honey A simple satisfying option that is always a hit.
• Lemon Curd Perfect for lemon scones or to add a little zing to plain ones.
• Fresh Berries and Whipped Cream Make your scones feel like a mini strawberry shortcake.
• Cheese and Chive Butter For savory scones, a slather of herbed butter with cheese takes it to the next level.
• Nut Butter and Sliced Bananas A hearty wholesome topping if you are looking for something different.
• Maple Syrup and Pecans Drizzle on some syrup and sprinkle with chopped pecans for a fall inspired treat.

If you’re serving scones fresh out of the oven, let them cool just slightly for about 5-10 minutes. They will still be warm and easy to break open without falling apart. This is perfect for melting butter or letting clotted cream sink right in.

Scones are also delightful at room temperature. Just let them cool on a rack after baking. They keep a bit better this way. If you are serving at a party or tea you don’t need to worry about keeping them warm.

Keeping Scones Fresh and Soft

Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Adding a paper towel inside helps absorb moisture and prevents sogginess.

While it’s not ideal you can keep scones in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven to revive the texture. If you need to freeze scones, individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip lock bag. They will keep for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat, let them thaw at room temp and then warm in a low oven (about 300°F) for that just baked feel.

Scone Recipe Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make these scones with plain flour instead of self-rising?
Yes! Just add 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon salt per cup of plain flour.

What if I don’t have lemonade? Alternatives to try
Use soda water for fluffiness or soda water with a splash of lemon juice for a hint of tang.

How to freeze and store leftover scones
Wrap each scone in plastic, place in a zip-top bag, and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw and warm in the oven to serve.

Best tips for making scones fluffier and lighter
Handle dough gently, keep ingredients cold, and cut without twisting for the best rise.

Scones Recipe Plain

Print Recipe

Easy Scone 3 Ingredient Scones

Ingredients

• 3 1/3 cups self-rising flour (500grams)
• 1 cup chilled lemonade (250grams)
• 1 1/4 ml cups heavy cream (300ml)

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Grease lightly with butter or oil spray.
• Add the flour to a large bowl, then make a well in the center. Pour in the lemonade and 1 cup (250ml) of the heavy cream. Use a butter knife to gently stir until a soft, sticky dough forms.
• Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently for about 30 seconds until it's just smooth. Press it into a disc about 1 1/4 inches (3 cm) thick.
• Use a 2-inch (5 cm) pastry cutter (the rim of a drinking glass also works) to cut about twenty scones, re-rolling the dough if needed. Arrange the scones on the prepared tray, so they’re just touching. Lightly brush the tops with the remaining cream.
• Bake for 16-18 minutes or until the scones are risen, golden, and sound hollow when tapped on top. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly.
• Serve warm or at room temperature

With just three ingredients and a few simple steps anyone can make perfect scones! Beginner friendly, this recipe will deliver delicious results. Try the easy lemon and cheese variations for extra flavor, or keep it classic with plain scones. Start baking today and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade treats.

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