Buttermilk & Vanilla Bean Scones

Indulge in a moment of pure delight with our Buttermilk & Vanilla Bean Scones—a divine fusion of classic scone perfection, enriched with the comforting embrace of buttermilk and the aromatic essence of vanilla bean. These tender, golden treats are a testament to the art of baking, inviting you to savor a moment of culinary enchantment. With a dusting of icing sugar and a dollop of whipped cream, each bite unveils a symphony of flavors that is both timeless and utterly irresistible.

PREP 20 MINS

COOK 20-23 MINS

MAKES 12

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 cups self-raising flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup caster sugar
• 4 tablespoons (80 g) Western Star Spreadable Original Soft, chilled
• 1½ cups buttermilk (plus extra for brushing)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract
• Icing sugar, for dusting
• 300 mL Western Star Thickened Cream, whipped, and raspberry jam, to serve

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Embark on a journey of baking bliss by preheating your oven to 220˚C/200˚C fan-forced. In a large bowl, combine the self-raising flour, baking powder, salt, and caster sugar, envisioning the symphony of textures and flavors that will soon grace your scones. Add the chilled Western Star Spreadable Original Soft in delightful dots, and with your fingertips, gently rub the mixture until it transforms into fine breadcrumbs—a precursor to the indulgent treat to come.
2. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients, carving out a space to showcase the star of the show: the buttermilk and vanilla bean essence. Whisk together the buttermilk and vanilla in a jug, allowing the fragrant notes to mingle and create an enticing aroma. Pour this exquisite mixture into the well you’ve created, and using a dinner knife, swiftly mix until the ingredients just come together—maintaining the promise of tender scones ahead. If needed, a touch more buttermilk can be added to ensure the perfect consistency.
3. Shape the dough into a delicate circle, about 3 cm thick, and gently press forward. With a 5 cm cookie cutter dusted in flour, cut out 12 rounds of scone dough, letting your anticipation grow as each round takes shape. Arrange these golden treasures closely together on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, preparing them for their transformation in the oven. A gentle brush of extra buttermilk on top adds a touch of tenderness and a hint of golden allure.
4. As you watch the scones transform in the oven, baking for 20-23 minutes until they attain a pale golden hue and a promise of delightful fluffiness, you’ll feel a sense of anticipation build. Once they emerge, wrap these warm scones in a clean tea-towel, allowing them to cool slightly while maintaining their tender embrace.
5. The grand finale beckons as you sprinkle a dusting of icing sugar over the warm scones, a symbol of the sweetness that awaits. With a flourish, serve these delectable treasures split open, revealing their tender insides. Crown each half with a luscious dollop of whipped cream and a spoonful of raspberry jam, allowing the flavors to meld in a moment of pure indulgence.
6. For an added touch of elegance, consider adorning your scones with fresh seasonal berries, a visual flourish that complements the richness of the flavors. With your Buttermilk & Vanilla Bean Scones lovingly prepared and presented, it’s time to savor each bite, celebrating the culmination of your culinary prowess.

Experience a moment of divine delight with our Buttermilk & Vanilla Bean Scones—a tribute to the art of baking and the enchanting fusion of flavors. Whether shared with loved ones or savored in solitude, these scones invite you to embrace the timeless joy of a perfectly crafted treat.