Nothing beats a classic scone recipe. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly baking idea or a quick and easy afternoon tea for entertaining, these plain scones are perfect for all occasions. Dollop with whipped cream and your favourite sticky jam for the perfect treat. You'll need a 5cm (diameter) round cutter for this recipe.

What you need to know before you start

This recipe comes together in 40 minutes and makes 16 scones. You’ll need some basic baking equipment including a baking tray, a large bowl, a sifter, a flat-bladed knife to combine the scone dough, a 5cm round cutter, a wire rack and access to an oven. 

Why is this the best easy plain scones recipe?

There’s no need for complicated techniques or additional flavourings – these no-fuss easy scones are the perfect basic recipe, ideal for any occasion. Reminiscent of the scones your nan used to make, the results are tender, flaky, light bites that are best served warm.

Made from just six ingredients (including cream and jam to serve), you’re likely to already have all the ingredients you need to make this easy scone recipe at home. We love pairing it with freshly whipped cream, strawberry jam and a cup of tea for an afternoon treat. 

What to avoid when making scones

Overworking the dough can result in tough, dry scones. It’s recommended you use a flat-bladed knife to combine the ingredients (instead of using a spoon or your hands) and only gently knead until everything comes together. 

A good basic scone should be soft and tender with a slightly crisp and golden top. Hard scones are a result of over-mixing or baking for too long. 

What ingredients you’ll need 

Plain flour: Plain flour is used to simply dust the scones before they’re baked to create a light crust. 

Self-raising flour: Self-raising flour is used in the dough as it contains baking powder, which helps the scones rise and become light and fluffy.

Butter: Butter adds richness, moisture and flavour, and creates a flaky texture.

Milk: Milk is used to add moisture while helping to bind the ingredients together.

Jam: Used as a topping, jam adds a sweet, fruity contrast to the buttery scone and rich cream.

Whipped cream: You can’t have scones without cream! It offers a creamy, airy richness that complements the scone’s texture and balances the sweetness of the jam.

What is the secret to making good scones?

There are a few simple steps you can take to ensure the best possible results for your scones. Begin by using cold butter for a lighter crumb, adding milk for moisture, not over-mixing the dough mixture, and only baking until golden and risen. Dip your cutter into some plain flour before cutting out your scones and cut scones in a straight down and up motion (if you twist the cutter, the scones won’t rise straight when baking). Arranging the raw scones 1cm apart on the baking tray gives them room to expand when baking, but also keeps them close enough to stay straight.

How to keep scones fresh after baking

After your leftover scones have cooled completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge or at room temperature. Feel free to gently warm them in the oven before serving and consume within 1-2 days.

What to serve with scones

Serve your scones warm on a platter alongside freshly whipped cream and your favourite jam of choice. Enjoy them on their own, or as part of a high tea spread with Victorian sponge cakes, cucumber sandwiches and salmon blinis. And don’t forget a pot of good English tea! 

If you love our easy plain scones recipe, try this 

Now that you’ve nailed the basics, try your hand at other scones recipes:

• Pumpkin scones
• Vegemite and cheese scones
• Easy lemonade scones