Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These scones are incredibly easy—no rubbing butter into flour, no fancy equipment, and they’re ready in under 30 minutes. The lemonade adds a subtle citrusy sweetness and helps create a light texture, while the cream makes them rich and tender. They’re great for beginners and a fun recipe to make with kids. Serve warm with jam and cream for a classic treat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Self-raising flour
- Heavy cream (or thickened cream)
- Lemonade (regular, not diet)
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- Extra cream or milk (for brushing tops)
- Optional: jam and whipped cream for serving
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, sift the self-raising flour and salt (if using).
- Add the cream and lemonade. Mix gently with a knife or spatula until just combined—do not overmix.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat into a 1-inch thick round.
- Use a floured round cutter to cut out scones. Press straight down without twisting for even rise.
- Place scones on the baking tray close together for soft sides, or spaced apart for crisp edges.
- Brush the tops with extra cream or milk.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until risen and golden.
- Serve warm with jam and cream.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 8–10 scones. Prep time is 10 minutes, and bake time is 12–15 minutes, for a total of approximately 25 minutes.
Variations
- Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the dough for extra citrus flavor.
- Fruit Scones: Mix in dried fruits like sultanas or chopped dates.
- Cheese Scones: Omit the lemonade and sugar, and add shredded cheese for a savory version.
- Glazed Tops: Sprinkle a little sugar on top before baking for a sweet crust.
- Mini Scones: Use a smaller cutter to make bite-sized versions.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a low oven (300°F) for 5–7 minutes until warmed through.
To freeze, cool completely, then wrap tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or thaw first and warm briefly before serving.
FAQs
Why use lemonade in scones?
Lemonade adds sweetness and carbonation, which helps make the scones extra light and fluffy.
Can I use diet lemonade?
It’s not recommended. Regular lemonade provides better texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have self-raising flour?
You can make your own by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder (about 2 tsp per cup).
Can I make these dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream and a non-diet lemon soda. Results may vary slightly.
Do I need to chill the dough?
No, these scones go straight from mixing to baking.
Can I add fresh fruit?
Yes, chopped strawberries or blueberries can be gently folded into the dough.
What cream is best?
Thickened or heavy cream works best for richness and structure.
How do I avoid tough scones?
Mix gently and handle the dough as little as possible. Don’t overwork it.
Should I use a rolling pin?
No need—just gently pat the dough with your hands to the desired thickness.
What’s the best way to serve them?
Warm with strawberry jam and clotted or whipped cream is the classic way to enjoy them.
Conclusion
Lemonade Scones are a quick, easy, and irresistibly fluffy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up a batch of these soft, golden scones in no time. Whether served plain, with jam and cream, or dressed up with fruit or cheese, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite in your baking rotation.
PrintLemonade Scones
Lemonade Scones are soft, fluffy, and lightly sweet scones made with just three ingredients—self-raising flour, cream, and lemonade. They’re quick, beginner-friendly, and perfect for morning tea, brunch, or a simple treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 scones
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Australian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 cups self-raising flour
- 1 cup heavy cream (or thickened cream)
- 1 cup lemonade (not diet)
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- Extra cream or milk, for brushing tops
- Optional: jam and whipped cream, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, sift together self-raising flour and salt (if using).
- Add cream and lemonade. Gently mix with a knife or spatula until just combined—do not overmix.
- Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat into a 1-inch thick round.
- Cut out scones using a floured round cutter, pressing straight down without twisting.
- Place scones on the baking tray close together for soft sides, or spaced apart for crisper edges.
- Brush tops with extra cream or milk.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until risen and golden.
- Serve warm with jam and whipped or clotted cream.
Notes
- Don’t overmix the dough—handle it gently for the fluffiest scones.
- Add lemon zest for a brighter citrus flavor.
- Use a sharp cutter and avoid twisting to help the scones rise evenly.
- Freeze baked scones for up to 2 months and reheat in the oven.
- Serve with your favorite jam and cream for a classic tea-time treat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scone
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg