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    Home » Recipes » Baking

    Easy Victoria Scones Recipe

    Published: Apr 30, 2023 · Modified: Sep 30, 2024 by Beth Sachs · 6 Comments · This post may contain affiliate links.

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    Victoria scones are a classic British tea-time treat that are easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious batch perfect for sharing with friends and family.

    With a crisp outside and a soft, fluffy inside, this easy scone recipe will quickly become your favourite afternoon tea snack!

    A Victoria scone on a blue and white china tea plate.

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    Serve the scones warm out of the oven with strawberry jam and clotted cream, or enjoy them on their own with a cup of tea.

    👩‍🍳Love baking scones? Try my easy air fryer scones or air fryer fruit scones next!

    Jump to:
    • History of Victoria Scones
    • ✔️ Why you'll love this recipe!
    • 🛒 Ingredient notes
    • 🔪 How to make Victoria Scones
    • Top Tips
    • 🍴 Serving suggestions
    • 📖 Variations
    • 🥡 Storage
    • ❓ Frequently asked questions
    • 😋 More easy scone recipes
    • Recipe
    • 💬 Comments

    History of Victoria Scones

    It's believed that the recipe for these scones was created in the early 19th century during the Victorian era.

    Queen Victoria herself was known to enjoy a good scone, and it's said that she would often have them served to her with her afternoon tea.

    Over time, the recipe for Victoria scones evolved and became more refined. In 1928, the Be-Ro Recipe Book was published, which included a recipe for these scones that is still widely used today.

    The Be-Ro recipe calls for self-raising flour, which was a new invention at the time. This ingredient made it much easier to create light and fluffy scones, and it quickly became a staple in many British kitchens.

    Today, Victoria scones are a beloved treat that can be found in bakeries and cafes throughout the UK. They are often served with jam and clotted cream, and are a popular choice for afternoon tea.

    ✔️ Why you'll love this recipe!

    • Made with just a few basic ingredients and requiring minimal preparation time, these scones are incredibly easy to whip up.
    • Ideal for sharing, scones are a fantastic choice for gatherings, picnics, or special occasions.
    • Victoria scones are freezer-friendly, so consider baking a double batch to enjoy later!

    🛒 Ingredient notes

    225g self-raising flour, plus extra for dusting: This flour contains a raising agent, making it ideal for scones. The extra flour prevents sticking while rolling out the dough.

    ¼ teaspoon baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the scones rise, ensuring a light and fluffy texture when combined with self-raising flour.

    50g cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes: Essential for a tender, flaky scone. Keeping the butter cold ensures even distribution in the dough.

    50g caster sugar: A fine sugar that dissolves quickly, adding a subtle sweetness without overpowering the other flavours.

    100ml whole milk, plus extra for glazing: Provides moisture and richness. The extra milk is used for glazing, giving the scones a golden-brown finish.

    1 large egg, beaten: Adds structure, moisture, and richness, contributing to a tender crumb and golden colour.

    Pinch of salt: Enhances flavour and balances sweetness, crucial for a well-rounded taste.

    8 glace cherries: Candied cherries that add sweetness and colour to the scones.

    🔪 How to make Victoria Scones

    The recipe card with ingredient quantities and detailed instructions can be found at the bottom of the post

    One: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/ 400F/ gas mark 6) and line a baking tray with non stick parchment paper.

    Two: In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.

    Three: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients, and rub the butter into the flour with your fingertips until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Stir in the caster sugar.

    Four: Whisk together the beaten egg and milk. Create a well in the centre of the dry ingredients, and pour in the wet mixture. Use a dinner knife to gently mix the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough scones.

    Making the scone dough in a large mixing bowl.

    Five: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it out to about 2.5cm thickness. Divide the dough into four equal pieces and use your hands to shape each piece into a round.

    Six: Place the scones onto the prepared baking tray, leaving enough space between them for expansion. Score a cross on the top of each scone (being careful not to drag the knife through the dough, but instead gently press into the dough). Brush the tops of the scones with a little milk and top each one with 4 glace cherry halves. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

    Victoria scones on a baking sheet.

    Top Tips

    • Using cold butter helps create a flaky, tender texture in your scones. Make sure to cut it into small cubes and work quickly to avoid warming it up with your hands.
    • When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can cause the scones to become tough.
    • Give your scones enough room on the baking tray to allow for expansion while baking.
    • Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking your scones, as this helps them to rise quickly and evenly.
    • All ovens vary, so keep a close eye on your scones and adjust the baking time as needed. Look for a golden-brown colour and a slight firmness to the touch as indicators that they are ready.

    🍴 Serving suggestions

    Traditionally, scones are served with clotted cream and strawberry jam. Here are some additional toppings you might consider:

    • Whipped cream
    • Lemon curd
    • Raspberry or blackberry jam
    • Honey
    • Butter

    Serve your scones with a cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of cold milk.

    A Victoria scone split in half revealing the soft texture inside.

    📖 Variations

    • Add vanilla extract to the scone dough for extra flavour.
    • Mix in dried fruit, such as raisins, currants, or sultanas, for a sweet, fruity flavour.
    • Substitute some or all of the self-raising flour with wholemeal flour for a heartier, more rustic scone.
    • Add 100g of chocolate chips to the scone mix for chocolate scones.
    • Add the zest of one lemon to the dry ingredients before rubbing in the butter for extra zing.

    🥡 Storage

    Store - Freshly baked scones are best enjoyed on the day they are made. However, if you need to store them for a short period, you can keep them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

    Reheat - You can reheat them in the oven at 150°C for about 5-8 minutes.

    Freeze - Scones can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, ensure they have completely cooled, then place the scones in an airtight container or freezer bag.

    A Victoria scone on a blue and white tea plate with a pot of clotted cream on the side.

    ❓ Frequently asked questions

    Can I use plain flour instead of self-raising flour?

    Yes, you can substitute plain flour for self-raising flour. For every 100g of plain flour, add 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder to achieve a similar result.

    Why didn't my scones rise properly?

    There could be several reasons for this, such as overworking the dough, using old or ineffective raising agents, or not preheating the oven to the correct temperature.

    Can I add other ingredients to the scones, such as fruit or chocolate chips?

    Yes, feel free to customise your scones by adding your favourite ingredients, like dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips. Just be careful not to overmix the dough when incorporating the additions.

    What is the difference between Victoria scones and regular scones?

    Victoria scones typically include the addition of an egg in the recipe, which contributes to a richer, more tender, and slightly moist crumb compared to regular scones.

    What is the best way to serve Victoria scones?

    Victoria scones are best served warm, with strawberry jam and a dollop of clotted cream. They're often served as part of a traditional British afternoon tea, along with cucumber sandwiches and other pastries.

    😋 More easy scone recipes

    • Date & Walnut Scones
    • Currant Scones
    • Cherry & Almond Scones
    • Air Fryer Cheese Scones
    • Air Fryer Rock Buns
    A Victoria scone on a blue and white plate.

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    Recipe

    Victoria scone with glace cherries on top.
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    5 from 7 votes

    Easy Victoria Scones Recipe

    Victoria scones are a classic British tea-time treat that are easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious batch perfect for sharing with friends and family.
    Course Baking
    Cuisine British
    Prep Time 8 minutes minutes
    Cook Time 15 minutes minutes
    Total Time 23 minutes minutes
    Servings 4
    Calories 380kcal
    Author Beth Sachs
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    Equipment

    • Kitchen Scales
    • Mixing Bowl
    • Baking Sheets

    Ingredients

    Metric - US Customary
    • 225 g Self Raising Flour
    • ¼ teaspoon Baking Powder
    • ⅛ teaspoon Salt
    • 50 g Butter cold and cubed
    • 50 g Caster Sugar
    • 1 Egg large
    • 100 ml Whole Milk plus extra for glazing
    • 8 Glace Cherries halved

    Instructions

    • Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/ 400F/ gas mark 6) and line a baking tray with non stick parchment paper.
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
      225 g Self Raising Flour, ¼ teaspoon Baking Powder, ⅛ teaspoon Salt
    • Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients, and rub the butter into the flour with your fingertips until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
      50 g Butter
    • Stir in the caster sugar.
      50 g Caster Sugar
    • Whisk together the beaten egg and milk. Create a well in the centre of the dry ingredients, and pour in the wet mixture. Use a dinner knife to gently mix the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough scones.
      1 Egg, 100 ml Whole Milk
    • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it out to about 2.5cm thickness. Divide the dough into four equal pieces and use your hands to shape each piece into a round.
    • Place the scones onto the prepared baking tray, leaving enough space between them for expansion. Score a cross on the top of each scone (being careful not to drag the knife through the dough, but instead gently press into the dough).
    • Brush the tops of the scones with a little milk and top each one with 4 glace cherry halves. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
      8 Glace Cherries

    Notes

    Expert Tips:
    • Using cold butter helps create a flaky, tender texture in your scones. Make sure to cut it into small cubes and work quickly to avoid warming it up with your hands.
    • When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can cause the scones to become tough.
    • Give your scones enough room on the baking tray to allow for expansion while baking.
     
    Variations:
    • Add vanilla extract to the scone dough for extra flavour.
    • Mix in dried fruit, such as raisins, currants, or sultanas, for a sweet, fruity flavour.
    • Substitute some or all of the self-raising flour with wholemeal flour for a heartier, more rustic scone.
    • Add 100g of chocolate chips to the scone mix for chocolate scones.
    • Add the zest of one lemon to the dry ingredients before rubbing in the butter for extra zing.
     
    Storage:
    Store - Freshly baked scones are best enjoyed on the day they are made. However, if you need to store them for a short period, you can keep them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
    Reheat - You can reheat them in the oven at 150°C for about 5-8 minutes.
    Freeze - Scones can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, ensure they have completely cooled, then place the scones in an airtight container or freezer bag.
     
    Nutrition: 
    The nutritional information provided is approximate and is calculated using online tools. Information can vary depending on various factors, but we have endeavoured to be as accurate as possible.
     
    Nutrition Facts
    Easy Victoria Scones Recipe
    Amount per Serving
    Calories
    380
    % Daily Value*
    Fat
     
    9
    g
    14
    %
    Saturated Fat
     
    2
    g
    13
    %
    Trans Fat
     
    0.01
    g
    Polyunsaturated Fat
     
    1
    g
    Monounsaturated Fat
     
    1
    g
    Cholesterol
     
    44
    mg
    15
    %
    Sodium
     
    126
    mg
    5
    %
    Potassium
     
    119
    mg
    3
    %
    Carbohydrates
     
    64
    g
    21
    %
    Fiber
     
    1
    g
    4
    %
    Sugar
     
    18
    g
    20
    %
    Protein
     
    11
    g
    22
    %
    Vitamin A
     
    109
    IU
    2
    %
    Vitamin C
     
    0.3
    mg
    0
    %
    Calcium
     
    76
    mg
    8
    %
    Iron
     
    1
    mg
    6
    %
    * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
    Tried this recipe?Snap a pic and tag @effortlessf00d on Instagram or Twitter

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Laura

      April 30, 2023 at 6:58 am

      5 stars
      My Grandmother had that Bero cookbook and we always used to make these Victoria Scones together when I was a child.

      Reply
    2. Liz

      April 30, 2023 at 12:34 pm

      5 stars
      I made these for a tea party brunch and they were a hit! Perfect taste and texture.

      Reply
    3. Dina Miller

      April 30, 2023 at 12:41 pm

      5 stars
      Scones are what we are missing with our kitchen remodel. This recipe will be a keeper to try when kitchen is complete!

      Reply
    4. Carrie Robinson

      April 30, 2023 at 1:39 pm

      5 stars
      These look absolutely perfect! And I love that the recipe for these uses self-rising flour. 🙂

      Reply
    5. Jacqueline

      April 30, 2023 at 1:40 pm

      5 stars
      I've never heard of Victoria scones but they sure do look good and I did know she was a fan of Scottish scones so it makes sense she had her chefs make her own twist.

      Reply
    6. Tara

      April 30, 2023 at 1:55 pm

      5 stars
      Such a wonderful addition to tea time! I especially love that texture and the glace cherry topping.

      Reply
    5 from 7 votes (1 rating without comment)

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    Mum of three (and two crazy dogs), living in Cornwall, UK. I love creating easy, delicious and fuss-free recipes, perfect for busy families, just like my own.

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