Irish soda bread scones are a delightful fusion of traditional Irish soda bread and the flaky texture of scones. They are quick to prepare, requiring no yeast, and are perfect for breakfast, tea, or as a snack. These scones are typically made with simple ingredients like flour, baking soda, buttermilk, and salt, with optional additions such as raisins, currants, caraway seeds, or orange zest for enhanced flavor.
Recipe for Irish Soda Bread Scones:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup raisins or currants (optional)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Incorporate Butter: Add the cold butter cubes to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Pour this into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Fold in Add-ins: If using raisins, orange zest, or caraway seeds, gently fold them into the dough.
- Shape Scones: On a lightly floured surface, pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into 8 wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown.
- Cool: Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.
For a visual guide on making these scones, you might find this video helpful:
Enjoy your homemade Irish soda bread scones with a pat of butter, jam, or a cup of tea!