How to Make Sweet Yogurt Scones

These sweet yogurt scones are an easy option for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

They turn out tender on the inside, golden on the outside, and have a mild flavor that pairs well with honey, jam, fresh fruit, or a little butter.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 pinch of salt
• 6 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• 2/3 cup plain yogurt
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon, optional
• 1 egg or a little milk, for brushing the tops

Preparation

1. Add the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt to a large bowl. Stir to combine.
2. Add the cold butter cubes. Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the flour until the mixture looks crumbly, with small pieces of butter still visible.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest if using.
4. Pour the yogurt mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir with a spoon or spatula until the dough starts to come together.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently bring it together with your hands. Avoid kneading it too much.
6. Pat the dough into a round about 1 inch thick.
7. Cut out the scones using a round 2 1/2-inch biscuit cutter. Press straight down without twisting the cutter.
8. Arrange the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each one.
9. Brush the tops with beaten egg or a small amount of milk.
10. Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
11. Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Tips and Advice

• Keep the butter very cold for the best texture.
• Do not overwork the dough once the yogurt is added.
• If the dough feels too sticky, add a small amount of flour, but avoid adding too much.
• Keep the dough fairly thick so the scones rise nicely.
• Press the cutter straight down instead of twisting it.
• You can swap the lemon zest for orange zest.
• For a slightly sweeter finish, sprinkle a little sugar on top before baking.
• Serve them with honey, jam, butter, or cream cheese.
• You can warm leftover scones for a few minutes before serving.
• Store completely cooled scones in an airtight container.

The result is a batch of soft, golden scones that are easy to make and perfect for a simple homemade breakfast or snack.