St. Patrick’s Day Irish Soda Bread Scones

Are you looking to add a touch of Irish charm to your St. Patrick’s Day celebration? These delightful Irish Soda Bread Scones are the perfect way to embrace the spirit of the holiday with a delicious twist. Filled with classic flavors and a hint of sweetness, these scones are sure to please your taste buds and bring a smile to your face. Let’s dive into the recipe and get baking!

Personal Story + Expertise

As a seasoned baker with a passion for exploring new recipes, I have always been intrigued by the rich tradition of Irish cuisine. St. Patrick’s Day holds a special place in my heart, as it’s a time to celebrate my Irish heritage and indulge in comforting foods that remind me of home. These Irish Soda Bread Scones have become a staple in my kitchen during this festive time of year, and I’m excited to share this recipe with you. I’ve tested and perfected this recipe to ensure that it’s easy to follow and yields delicious results every time.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 2/3 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg, beaten

Substitution: If you’re avoiding gluten, you can use gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour. For a dairy-free option, substitute almond milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for buttermilk.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the raisins.
5. In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk and beaten egg.
6. Pour the buttermilk mixture into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined.
7. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and shape it into a circle, about 1 inch thick. Cut the circle into eight wedges.
8. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Allow the scones to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with butter and a cup of tea.

Expert Tips

• For extra flaky scones, make sure the butter is cold and work it into the flour quickly.
• If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 2/3 cup of milk with 2 teaspoons of lemon juice or white vinegar.
• Feel free to customize your scones by adding nuts, dried cranberries, or even chocolate chips.

FAQ

Can I freeze these scones?

Yes, you can freeze the baked scones in an airtight container for up to three months. Simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat in the oven before serving.

How long will these scones stay fresh?

These scones are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are baked. To keep them fresh for longer, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.

Can I make these scones ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, simply shape the scones and bake as directed.

What can I serve with these scones?

These scones are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with butter, jam, clotted cream, or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.

Can I use whole wheat flour in this recipe?

You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture and nutty flavor.

These St. Patrick’s Day Irish Soda Bread Scones are a delightful treat that will transport you to the rolling hills of Ireland with each bite. Whether you’re celebrating the holiday or simply craving a taste of tradition, these scones are sure to bring a smile to your face. Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy baking and Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

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