Fruit Scone Recipe Mary Berry

Here's the start of a blog post about Mary Berry's Fruit Scone Recipe:

Introduction to Mary Berry’s Fruit Scones 🌟

Baking is not just an art, but a joyful journey into the heart of culinary traditions. When you think of scones, few recipes are as iconic or trusted as Mary Berry's Fruit Scone Recipe. Known for her approachable yet sophisticated culinary style, Mary Berry has enchanted home bakers for decades. Let's dive into the making of these delectable treats that are perfect for your afternoon tea or a sweet indulgence at any time of the day.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Mary Berry Fruit Scones" src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Mary+Berry+Fruit+Scones"> </div>

Essential Ingredients for Mary Berry’s Fruit Scones 🛒

When embarking on baking Mary Berry's scones, having the right ingredients is key:

• 225g/8oz self-raising flour (💡 pro tip: If you don’t have self-raising flour, add 2 ¾ teaspoons baking powder to 225g plain flour)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 50g/2oz unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 25g/1oz caster sugar
• 125ml/4fl oz whole milk
• 1 egg, beaten, for glazing
• 50g/2oz raisins or sultanas (choose your favorite)
• A pinch of salt

<p class="pro-note">🍰 Note: Keep your butter cold as this contributes to the flaky texture of your scones.</p>

Step-by-Step Baking Guide 🌱

Now, let's walk through the preparation of these irresistible fruit scones:

Preheating Your Oven

• Preheat your oven to 220°C/425°F/Gas 7. Remember, a hot oven is crucial for a good rise.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Preheating Oven for Scones" src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Oven+Preheating"> </div>

Preparing the Dough

1. Sift: Start by sifting the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt into a large bowl.

   - **Tip**: Sifting aerates the flour, making for a lighter scone texture.
   

2. Butter: Add the chilled, cubed butter to the flour mixture.

   • Using your fingertips, quickly rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Breadcrumbs for Scones" src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Scone+Dough+Crumbling"> </div>

3. Sugar and Fruit: Stir in the caster sugar and your chosen dried fruit.

Forming the Scone Dough

4. Milk: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the milk.

   • Mix gently with a palette knife to form a soft, sticky dough.

5. Kneading: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead briefly and gently to ensure all ingredients are just combined.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Kneading Scone Dough" src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Kneading+Scone+Dough"> </div>

Shaping and Cutting Scones

6. Roll: Roll or press the dough out to about 2cm thick.

   • Use a round cutter to cut out scones, pressing the cutter straight down without twisting to ensure a good rise.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Cutting Out Scones" src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Cutting+Scones"> </div>

7. Place: Arrange the scones on a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one.

Baking

8. Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the scones with the beaten egg for a golden glaze.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Glazing Scones with Egg Wash" src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Glazing+Scones"> </div>

9. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until well risen and golden.

Serving and Storage

10. Serve: Let the scones cool slightly, then split them and serve with lashings of clotted cream and your favourite jam.

    <p class="pro-note">☕ Note: Scones are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days or frozen.</p>

Variations and Additions 🥄

While Mary Berry's recipe is classic, you can tweak it:

• Cheese Scones: Add grated cheddar cheese to the dough for a savory option.
• Mixed Berry: Use a mix of dried berries for extra color and flavor.
• Herb Infused: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or chives for an interesting twist.

Key Techniques for Fluffy Scones 🍰

• Keep Everything Cold: From your hands to the butter, cold is good.
• Quick Work: The less you handle the dough, the better your scones will be.
• Avoid Overworking: Over-kneading can lead to tough scones.

Frequently Asked Questions

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I make scones ahead of time?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, you can prepare the scone dough and freeze it unbaked. When ready to bake, preheat the oven, and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Why are my scones dense instead of fluffy?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Overworking the dough can develop too much gluten, resulting in dense scones. Keep mixing to a minimum and ensure your ingredients are cold for the best texture.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What can I use if I don’t have self-raising flour?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>You can make your own self-raising flour by adding 2 teaspoons of baking powder to every 150g of plain flour.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Mary Berry's fruit scones are a testament to the joys of simple, wholesome baking. Whether for a special occasion or to brighten an everyday tea break, these scones will not only satiate your hunger but also fill your home with warmth and the inviting aroma of baking. Enjoy the process, share the results, and most importantly, savor the moment with every bite.