Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 2/3 cup (160ml) milk (plus more for brushing)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 egg (optional, for a richer dough or egg wash)
- Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries), chocolate chips, or zest of 1 lemon/orange
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold cubed butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in any optional add-ins like dried fruit or zest.
- In a separate bowl, combine the milk and vanilla extract. If using an egg, beat it and add to the milk mixture.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir just until the dough comes together—do not overmix.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Gently knead and shape into a 1-inch thick round. Cut into 8 wedges or use a round cutter for classic shapes.
- Place on prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with milk or beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool slightly on a wire rack and serve warm, with butter, jam, or clotted cream.
Let me know if you’d like a variation like lemon-blueberry or cheddar-chive!