Butter scones are a classic British treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day, whether it’s for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a snack. These delicious, flaky pastries are often served with a variety of sweet and savory toppings, but what are the best things to eat with butter scones? In this article, we’ll explore the perfect pairings for butter scones, from traditional favorites to more modern twists.
A Brief History of Butter Scones
Before we dive into the best things to eat with butter scones, let’s take a brief look at the history of these delicious pastries. Scones have been a staple of British cuisine for centuries, with the first recorded recipe dating back to the 15th century. Traditionally, scones were made with cream, sugar, and eggs, and were often served as a sweet treat. However, with the introduction of butter as a key ingredient, butter scones became a popular variation.
Traditional Pairings for Butter Scones
When it comes to traditional pairings for butter scones, there are a few classic combinations that are hard to beat. Here are a few of the most popular:
- Jam and Cream: This is perhaps the most classic pairing for butter scones. A dollop of whipped cream and a spoonful of sweet jam, such as strawberry or raspberry, are the perfect accompaniments to a warm, flaky scone.
- Clotted Cream and Jam: For a more indulgent treat, try pairing your butter scone with clotted cream and jam. The rich, creamy texture of the clotted cream pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the jam.
Savory Options for Butter Scones
While sweet pairings are delicious, butter scones can also be enjoyed with a variety of savory toppings. Here are a few ideas:
Cheese and Chutney
A classic savory pairing for butter scones is cheese and chutney. The tangy, creamy texture of the cheese pairs perfectly with the sweet, spicy flavor of the chutney. Try pairing your butter scone with a strong cheddar or a creamy brie, and a spoonful of mango chutney or apple chutney.
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese
For a more indulgent savory option, try pairing your butter scone with smoked salmon and cream cheese. The rich, creamy texture of the cream cheese pairs perfectly with the smoky, salty flavor of the salmon.
Modern Twists on Traditional Pairings
While traditional pairings are delicious, there are also many modern twists on classic combinations. Here are a few ideas:
Lemon Curd and Fresh Fruit
For a bright, citrusy twist on the classic jam and cream pairing, try pairing your butter scone with lemon curd and fresh fruit. The tangy, sweet flavor of the lemon curd pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the fresh fruit.
Cinnamon Sugar and Caramel Sauce
For a sweet and indulgent treat, try pairing your butter scone with cinnamon sugar and caramel sauce. The warm, spicy flavor of the cinnamon sugar pairs perfectly with the rich, sweet flavor of the caramel sauce.
Other Delicious Options for Butter Scones
In addition to traditional and savory pairings, there are many other delicious options for butter scones. Here are a few ideas:
Honey and Almond Butter
For a sweet and nutty treat, try pairing your butter scone with honey and almond butter. The rich, creamy texture of the almond butter pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the honey.
Nutella and Banana
For a chocolatey twist on the classic butter scone, try pairing it with Nutella and banana. The rich, chocolatey flavor of the Nutella pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the banana.
Conclusion
Butter scones are a delicious and versatile treat that can be enjoyed with a variety of sweet and savory toppings. Whether you prefer traditional pairings like jam and cream, or more modern twists like lemon curd and fresh fruit, there’s a perfect pairing for everyone. So next time you’re looking for a tasty treat, try pairing your butter scone with one of these delicious options.
| Pairing | Description |
|---|---|
| Jam and Cream | A classic pairing featuring a dollop of whipped cream and a spoonful of sweet jam. |
| Clotted Cream and Jam | A more indulgent treat featuring rich, creamy clotted cream and sweet jam. |
| Cheese and Chutney | A savory pairing featuring tangy cheese and sweet, spicy chutney. |
| Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese | A more indulgent savory option featuring rich, creamy cream cheese and smoky salmon. |
| Lemon Curd and Fresh Fruit | A bright, citrusy twist on the classic jam and cream pairing. |
| Cinnamon Sugar and Caramel Sauce | A sweet and indulgent treat featuring warm, spicy cinnamon sugar and rich caramel sauce. |
| Honey and Almond Butter | A sweet and nutty treat featuring rich, creamy almond butter and sweet honey. |
| Nutella and Banana | A chocolatey twist on the classic butter scone featuring rich, chocolatey Nutella and sweet banana. |
What are butter scones and how do they differ from regular scones?
Butter scones are a type of scone that is made with a higher proportion of butter to flour than regular scones. This gives them a richer, more tender texture and a more pronounced butter flavor. They are often served as a sweet treat, but can also be paired with savory toppings for a more substantial snack.
The key difference between butter scones and regular scones is the amount of butter used in the recipe. Butter scones typically use at least 25% more butter than regular scones, which gives them a more luxurious texture and flavor. This also makes them more prone to crumbling, so they need to be handled gently when serving.
What are some popular sweet toppings for butter scones?
Butter scones are a versatile base for a variety of sweet toppings. Some popular options include clotted cream and jam, which is a classic combination in the UK. Fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, is also a delicious and healthy option. For a more indulgent treat, try pairing butter scones with chocolate chips or caramel sauce.
When choosing a sweet topping for butter scones, consider the flavor and texture of the scone itself. If the scone is particularly rich and buttery, a lighter topping such as fresh fruit may be a good choice. If the scone is more dense and dry, a richer topping such as clotted cream and jam may be more suitable.
Can I pair butter scones with savory toppings?
Yes, butter scones can be paired with savory toppings for a more substantial snack. Some popular options include cheese, such as cheddar or brie, and cured meats, such as bacon or ham. You can also try pairing butter scones with eggs, such as scrambled or fried, for a filling breakfast.
When pairing butter scones with savory toppings, consider the flavor and texture of the topping itself. If the topping is particularly strong, such as blue cheese or salami, a more delicate scone may be overpowered. In this case, a more robust scone with a coarser texture may be a better choice.
What beverages pair well with butter scones?
Butter scones can be paired with a variety of beverages, depending on the topping and the occasion. For a classic combination, try pairing butter scones with tea, such as English breakfast or Earl Grey. Coffee is also a popular choice, particularly if the scone is paired with a sweet topping.
If you prefer a more indulgent beverage, try pairing butter scones with hot chocolate or a flavored latte. For a lighter option, a glass of cold milk or a fruit juice may be a better choice. Ultimately, the choice of beverage will depend on your personal preference and the flavor profile of the scone and topping.
Can I make butter scones from scratch?
Yes, butter scones can be made from scratch using a simple recipe. The key ingredients are flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and cream, which are combined and baked in a hot oven. To make butter scones from scratch, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, combine the dry ingredients in a bowl and add the cold butter, using a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour.
Once the butter is fully incorporated, add the eggs and cream, and mix the dough until it comes together in a ball. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it gently until it becomes smooth and pliable. Then, pat the dough into a circle that is about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick, and use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out the scones.
How do I store butter scones to keep them fresh?
Butter scones are best served fresh, but they can be stored for up to 2 days in an airtight container. To keep them fresh, make sure to cool the scones completely on a wire rack before storing them. This will help to prevent moisture from building up and making the scones soggy.
If you want to freeze butter scones, you can do so for up to 2 months. Simply place the cooled scones in a freezer-safe bag or container, and store them in the freezer. To thaw frozen scones, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours, or reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Can I customize butter scones with different flavors and ingredients?
Yes, butter scones can be customized with different flavors and ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Some popular variations include adding dried fruit, such as cranberries or cherries, or nuts, such as walnuts or pecans. You can also try adding different spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, or using different types of sugar, such as brown sugar or honey.
When customizing butter scones, consider the flavor profile you want to achieve. If you’re adding a strong flavor ingredient, such as nuts or dried fruit, you may want to reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe. Conversely, if you’re adding a mild flavor ingredient, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, you may want to increase the amount of sugar to balance out the flavor.