Lemon Scones Recipe

If you have a soft spot for tender, buttery treats with a bright, zesty punch, this Lemon Scones Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. These scones are perfectly crumbly on the outside, delightfully fluffy on the inside, and infused with fresh lemon juice and zest that bring that refreshing, sunny flavor we all crave. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely weekend breakfast or impressing guests with tea time delights, these lemony gems hit just the right note every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Lemon Scones Recipe keeps things simple but never compromises on flavor or texture. Each ingredient plays a vital role—from the cold butter creating that flakey, tender crumb, to the fresh lemon juice and zest that give these scones their unmistakable bright, tangy personality.

• Cold unsalted butter, ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g): Essential for creating flakiness and a rich buttery taste, it must be cold to incorporate properly.
• All-purpose flour, 2 ½ cups (312.5 g): The foundation providing structure and a tender crumb when combined correctly.
• Granulated sugar, ½ cup (100 g): Sweetens the scones just right without overpowering the lemon.
• Baking powder, 1 tablespoon: The leavening agent responsible for that lovely rise and fluffy texture.
• Kosher salt, ½ teaspoon: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness perfectly.
• Heavy whipping cream, ½ cup + 2 tablespoons: Adds richness and moisture to the dough and is also used for brushing, which helps achieve a golden crust.
• Large eggs, 2 (room temperature): Binds ingredients and enriches the dough.
• Fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon + 2-3 tablespoons: Offers that vibrant, zesty flavor essential to the recipe and is also used in the glaze.
• Lemon zest, 1 teaspoon: Intensifies lemon flavor with aromatic oils from the peel.
• Confectioners’ sugar, 1 cup (125 g): Provides the perfect base for a silky, sweet lemon glaze.

How to Make Lemon Scones Recipe

Step 1: Prepare your oven and butter

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Next, grate your cold butter using the fine edge of a grater onto a sheet of parchment paper, and pop it into the freezer. This technique is a little trick that helps distribute the butter evenly through the dough, ensuring your scones will be beautifully flaky.

Step 2: Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and kosher salt. These dry ingredients form the backbone of your scone dough, giving it structure while balancing sweetness and leavening.

Step 3: Incorporate the butter

Remove the grated butter from the freezer. Using a fork, gently mix the frozen butter bits into your dry ingredients. This method keeps the butter cold and helps create those signature flaky layers when baked.

Step 4: Combine wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest. These wet ingredients bring richness, moisture, and that bright burst of citrus flavor to the dough.

Step 5: Combine wet and dry mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—this is key because over-mixing can make your scones tough instead of tender. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Step 6: Shape and cut the dough

Turn the dough out onto the lined baking sheet. Dust your hands lightly with flour to prevent sticking, then pat the dough into a circle about ¾-inch thick. Using a bench scraper or a large knife, cut the dough into 8 equal wedges. Carefully separate the wedges, leaving about a half-inch space between each to allow for expansion.

Step 7: Brush with cream and bake

Brush the exposed edges and tops of the scones with the remaining heavy cream to encourage a golden, glossy crust. Bake in your preheated oven for 18 to 23 minutes or until the scones have turned a warm, inviting golden brown.

Step 8: Make and drizzle the glaze

While the scones bake, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and freshly squeezed lemon juice in a small bowl. Adjust the lemon juice until you reach your preferred drizzling consistency. Once your scones have cooled just slightly, drizzle the tangy glaze generously over the top. This final step adds a sweet, citrusy finish that truly brings the Lemon Scones Recipe to life.

How to Serve Lemon Scones Recipe

Garnishes

For an eye-catching touch and even more lemony goodness, sprinkle a few thin lemon zest curls or small edible flowers over the glaze. Fresh blueberries or a light dusting of extra powdered sugar can also make your scones feel extra special and festive.

Side Dishes

Lemon scones pair wonderfully with clotted cream, whipped honey butter, or a dollop of mascarpone cheese. Serve alongside freshly brewed tea or a bright herbal infusion like chamomile or mint to complement the citrus notes beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a brunch, consider stacking scones on a tiered stand for a charming display. You can also serve them sliced open with a smear of homemade lemon curd or your favorite marmalade, elevating this classic Lemon Scones Recipe to a show-stopping centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This maintains their tenderness and keeps the glaze from becoming sticky or melting away.

Freezing

These scones freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When you want a quick treat, just thaw at room temperature or gently warm them in the oven.

Reheating

To revive the fresh-baked sensation, reheat scones in a 350°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. This refreshes their crisp edges and melts the glaze slightly, making every bite taste as though they just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice in this Lemon Scones Recipe?

While fresh lemon juice gives the brightest, most natural flavor, lemon extract can be used in a pinch. Use it sparingly—about ½ teaspoon—to avoid overpowering the scones. You might want to reduce any additional liquid slightly when substituting extract.

What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, full-fat milk or half-and-half will work, though the scones might be a touch less rich and tender. For brushing before baking, milk is a fine alternative that helps with browning.

How do I know when the scones are done baking?

Look for a golden-brown color on the edges and tops of the scones. They should feel firm to the touch and should spring back slightly when pressed. If unsure, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Can I make these scones gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum for best results. Be aware the texture might be a little different—still delicious, but slightly more crumbly than traditional scones.

What is the best way to get the perfect flaky texture?

Keeping the butter cold and grating it directly into the dry ingredients is the key to flakiness. Also, avoid over-mixing the dough; gently combine wet and dry ingredients so the gluten doesn’t develop too much, which can make scones tough.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Scones Recipe is one of those delightful little treats that feels both cozy and refreshing at the same time. Once you try these scones, with their tender crumb and vibrant lemon zing, they’ll easily become a favorite for mornings, teatime, and special occasions alike. Give yourself the gift of homemade lemon goodness—you won’t regret it!

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