Classic Cream Scones

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 425F.
2. 2
   Lightly butter a baking sheet. In a large bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut the butter into 1/2-inch cubes and distribute them over the flour mixture. With a pastry blender or two knives used scissors fashion, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3
   In a small bowl, stir together the cream, egg, and vanilla.
4. 4
   Add the cream mixture to the flour mixture and stir until combines.
5. 5
   Stir in the currents/raisins (optional). With lightly floured hands, pat the dough into a 1/2-inch thickness on a lightly floured cutting board.
6. 6
   Using a floured 2 1/2-inch-diameter round biscuit cutter or a glass, cut out rounds from the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Gather the scraps together and repeat until all the dough is used.
7. 7
   Lightly brush the tops of the scones with the egg mixture, if desired.
8. 8
   Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until lightly browned.
9. 9
   Remove the baking sheet to a wire rack and cool for 5 minutes.
10. 10
    Using a spatula, transfer the scones to the wire rack to cool.
11. 11
    Serve warm or cool completely and store in an airtight container.
12. 12
    Makes about 14 scones.
13. 13
    Variation: Add about 1 1/2 teaspoons of grated lemon peel to the dry ingredients.
14. 14
    My variation: Classic Scones 280 grams all-purpose flour 65 g granulated sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/8 teaspoon salt 110 g unsalted butter, chilled 6 tablespoons milk 1 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar 125 g raisins Preheat oven to 220C.
15. 15
    Directions as above.