Master Scone Recipe + 5 Delicious Variations for Every Season

There’s nothing quite like a freshly baked scone—flaky on the outside, soft and buttery inside, and just the right hint of sweetness (or savory kick!). With this master scone recipe, you’ll have a base dough that’s easy to work with and endlessly adaptable. Plus, I’m sharing five of my favorite flavor variations, perfect for every season and taste. Whether you’re craving something fruity, chocolatey, or even savory, there’s a scone here for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Versatile: One simple dough with endless possibilities!
• Perfect for Any Season: Mix and match flavors to match the time of year or your mood.
• Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples and fresh mix-ins make this both affordable and accessible.

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Master Scone Dough

The best scone dough that's easily customizable with 5 of our favorite variations.

Servings 6 wedges

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 4 tbsp cold vegan butter or regular butter cut into small cubes
• ½ cup plant-based milk or heavy cream plus extra for brushing
• 2 flax or regular eggs, well beaten

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

3. Cut in the Butter: Using a pastry cutter or your hands, cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Add Milk and Mix: Pour in the eggs (or egg replacement) and milk (and vanilla extract or other liquid/wet ingredients if using) and stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

5. Optional Mix Ins: Add any other flavors or ingredients (like nuts, fruit, chocolate, etc) you're adding for your scone variations and gently fold in until combined.

6. Form and Cut: Turn the dough onto a floured surface, shape it into a 1 ½-inch-thick round, and cut into 6 wedges. For added shine, brush the tops with your egg wash or a bit of milk. Place scones on parchment paper on baking sheet.

7. Bake: Bake scones at 425°F (218°C) for about 16-20 minutes until lightly golden on top. Let cool for at least 5 min before serving.

Recipe Video

Flavor Variations

Pear & Caramel (Or Apple & Caramel)

• Add-ins: 1/2 cup diced pear (or apples), lightly sautéed, and 1/2 cup caramel bits
• Instructions: Sauté the pear (or apples) pieces briefly to soften, then fold them with the caramel bits into the dough. This combination creates a delicate sweetness with a touch of caramelized warmth. Toffee bits work if you can’t find the caramel. (Affiliate links)

Fresh Cranberry & Dark Chocolate

• Add-ins: 3/4 cup dark chocolate chunks, 1/2 cup whole fresh cranberries
• Instructions: Gently fold the chocolate chunks and cranberries into the dough before shaping. These scones are bursting with tart cranberry flavor and rich chocolate for a cozy autumn treat.

Chocolate Hazelnut

• Add-ins: 3/4 cup dark chocolate chunks, 1/2 cup chopped roasted hazelnuts
• Instructions: Fold in the chocolate and hazelnuts for an indulgent scone with a nutty crunch and melted chocolate in every bite. This one’s a personal favorite for a little weekend luxury!

Summer Delight: Blackberry Lemon Drizzle

• Add-ins: 1/2 cup fresh (or frozen) blackberries
• Lemon Drizzle: Mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice until smooth.
• Instructions: Gently fold in the blackberries. After baking, drizzle the lemon glaze over the cooled scones for a bright, citrusy finish that complements the berries perfectly.

Summer savory Scones: Cheddar & Roasted Green Chile

• Add-ins: 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup diced roasted green chiles
• Optional: Top with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cracked black pepper before baking.
• Instructions: Mix the cheese and chiles into the dough for a savory scone that’s just the right balance of rich cheese and mild heat from the chiles.

Spring Herb Scones with Everything Bagel Topping

• Add-ins: 1 tablespoon each of fresh chopped rosemary, thyme, and parsley
• Topping: Sprinkle Everything Bagel seasoning mix on top before baking. (Affiliate link)
• Instructions: Mix the fresh herbs into the dough for an herby aroma in every bite. Before baking, brush the scones lightly with milk and add a sprinkle of the seasoning on top. Perfect for a spring brunch spread!

Tips for Perfect Scones Every Time

• Keep it Cool: Cold butter is key to flaky scones—try to handle it as little as possible to keep the dough cool.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until the ingredients come together. Overmixing can make scones tough.
• Freeze for Later: These scones freeze beautifully! Simply freeze after cutting the dough into wedges. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Go for gold: Before baking brush your scones with an egg wash or milk (dairy or plant-based) for an extra golden finish. (Affiliate link)
• Scones that Sparkle: Top sweet scones with crunchy turbinado sugar for a sparkly sweet surprise. (Affiliate link)

Whether you’re looking to make a cozy fall treat or a savory addition to brunch, these scone recipes have you covered. Let me know which flavor you try first!