21 Unique Scone Recipes for Your Next Afternoon Tea Party

Scones are a beloved staple of British cuisine, often served during afternoon tea, cream tea, elevenses or even breakfast time. These delicate treats are a perfect complement to a hot cup of tea or coffee, and can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings such as jam, clotted cream, butter, or honey. With so many different variations of scone recipes out there, it can be overwhelming to choose which one to make. That's why we've compiled a list of 21 delicious scone recipes to suit any taste or occasion. From classic English scones to American style lemon poppyseed scones, to raspberry scones, and even sweet chocolate chip scone recipes, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a storm with these irresistible scone recipes!

21 of the Best Scone Recipes to Make for Tea Time

Scone Recipes Galore: 21 Delicious and Unique Flavors to Elevate Your Tea Time Experience

Discover 21 delicious scone recipes ranging from classic sultana to unique flavor combinations like lavender and yogurt almond, perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea any time of day.

The History of Scones

Scones have been a popular treat in Britain for centuries, but the tradition of serving them with cream and jam as part of afternoon tea or cream tea dates back to the 19th century. The first reference to "cream tea" as we know it today appears in an 1858 issue of The Cornishman newspaper, which describes a meal of "splits," a type of sweetened bread roll, served with clotted cream and jam.

Scones were introduced to America by British immigrants, but over time, American bakers put their own spin on the traditional recipe. One of the key differences is the shape: while English scones are typically round, American scones are often triangular. American scones also tend to be sweeter and denser than their British counterparts, and may be flavored with ingredients like chocolate chips, dried fruit and topped with different glazes. While British and American scones may have their differences, they are both perfectly paired with a lovely cup of tea!

It’s time to dust off your teapot, brew yourself a lovely cup of tea, bake some of these delicious homemade scones, and indulge in the goodness of these unique homemade jam recipes to create the perfect tea time experience in the comfort of your own home!

Try These 21 Unique Scone Recipes for Afternoon Tea, Elevenses or Breakfast Time

Get ready to up your tea time experience with these 21 irresistible scone recipes. From classic English round scones to American triangle scones, and sweet white chocolate scones to earthy matcha scones, to zesty Earl grey scones, you're sure to find a recipe (or two!) that will become your new go-to.

1. Easiest Ever Sultana Scones

Best Scone Recipes: Easiest Ever Sultana Scones

Sultana Scones by Chef Not Required

Looking for a delicious and easy scone recipe? We will start with these traditional English Sultana Scones which are perfect for afternoon tea time! Made without eggs and with sweet plump sultanas and a hint of cinnamon, they're the perfect addition to any afternoon tea spread served with teapots full of hot tea!

2. Savory Scones

Best Scone Recipes: Savory Scones

Savory Scones by Vintage Kitchen Notes

Looking for a savory twist on the classic scone? These customizable Savory Scones are a must-try. Choose from delicious flavors like parmesan and chives, or cheese and bacon, and enjoy them for breakfast or as a tasty snack for an afternoon tea treat.

3. 3-Ingredient Scones With Eton Mess Topping

Best Scone Recipes: Eaton Mess Scones

3-Ingredient Scones With Eton Mess Topping by The Cinnamon Jar

These 3-Ingredient Scones with Eton Mess Topping are a quick and easy treat that's perfect for elevenses or a sweet afternoon snack. They pair perfectly with a cup of rich and robust hot tea such as Assam, and make a great delicious alternative to the classic clotted cream and jam.

4. Triple Chocolate Scones

Best Scone Recipes: Triple Chocolate Scones

Triple Chocolate Scones by Lane and Grey Fare

Calling all chocolate lovers! These Triple Chocolate Scones are a must-try for breakfast, afternoon tea, or any time you're craving something sweet. Plus, they're versatile and can be made gluten-free and vegan-friendly for those with dietary restrictions. Pair them with a cup of black tea or an aromatic hot choc chai for the ultimate chocolatey indulgence.

5. Buttery Earl Grey Scones with Lemon Glaze

Best Scone Recipes: Earl Grey Scones

Buttery Earl Grey Scones With Lemon Glaze by Ugly Duckling Bakery

If you're looking for a delicious twist on the classic scone, try these Earl Grey Scones with a zesty lemon glaze. They're perfect for an afternoon tea or breakfast with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a lighter Lady Grey tea for a perfectly balanced flavor combination.

6. Chocolate Chip Scones with Chocolate Drizzle

Best Scone Recipes: Scone Recipes Chocolate Chip

Chocolate Chip Scones with Chocolate Drizzle by A Baking Journey

If you're a fan of classic chocolate chip cookies, you're going to love these Chocolate Chip Scones! They're the perfect indulgent treat for an afternoon tea, elevenses or anytime you're craving something sweet and delicious!

7. Seckel Pear and Pistachio Scones

Best Scone Recipes: Pear and Pistachio Scones

Seckel Pear and Pistachio Scones by Strength and Sunshine

If you're looking for a delicious and allergy-friendly breakfast treat, these Seckel Pear and Pistachio Scones are a must-try. They're gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and bursting with the flavors of fall. Pair them with a warming tea latte for the perfect start to your day.

8. Yogurt Almond Scones

Best Scone Recipes: Yogurt Almond Scones

Yogurt Almond Scones by Chef’s Pencil

These Yogurt Almond Scones are a delicious twist on the classic scone recipe. With a light, fluffy texture and a hint of nutty flavor from the almonds, they pair perfectly with a fragrant and floral tea, like Earl Grey or jasmine green tea.

9. Air Fryer Blueberry Scones

Best Scone Recipes: Air Fryer Blueberry Scones

Air Fryer Blueberry Scones by Cooking School Dropout

If you're looking for a quick and easy breakfast or elevenses treat, these Air Fryer Blueberry Scones are the perfect solution! With juicy bursts of blueberry and a golden, flaky crust, they're the perfect accompaniment to a hot cup of coffee or tea.

10. Copycat Starbucks Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe

Best Scone Recipes: Copycat Starbucks Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe

Copycat Starbucks Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe by The Three Snackateers

If you're a fan of Starbucks' Cranberry Orange Scones, you'll love this copycat recipe! Bursting with tart cranberries and citrusy orange zest, these Cranberry Orange Scones are a delicious breakfast or elevenses treat, and are the perfect pick-me-up for an afternoon tea break.

11. Lavender Scones

Best Scone Recipes: Lavender Scones

Lavender Scones by JCO Cooking Odyssey

Up your afternoon tea game with these deliciously floral Lavender Scones! Their delicate floral flavor and subtle sweetness make them the perfect accompaniment to a hot cup of lemon tea or lavender tea and serve with lots of jam and clotted cream!

12. Apple Cinnamon Scones

Best Scone Recipes: Apple Cinnamon Scones

Apple Cinnamon Scones by Quiet Baking Day

These Apple Cinnamon Scones are a perfect way to welcome the flavors of fall into your summer tea time. Their warm, comforting aroma and delicious flavor make them the ideal accompaniment to a refreshing iced tea on a hot summer afternoon.

13. Easy Coffee Scones

Best Scone Recipes: Easy Coffee Scones

Easy Coffee Scones by Bright-Eyed Baker

Coffee lovers with dietary restrictions, rejoice! These Easy Coffee Scones come with a gluten-free option, making them the perfect breakfast treat to enjoy alongside your morning cup of coffee. With a rich coffee flavor and tender crumb, they're sure to become a new favorite.

14. Lemonade Scones

Best Scone Recipes: Lemonade Scones

Lemonade Scones by Cooking With Nana Ling

Get ready for a quick and easy recipe with only 3 ingredients! These Lemonade Scones are perfect for a refreshing afternoon tea with clotted cream and jam or just paired with your favorite cup of tea or coffee anytime you fancy a sweet treat!

15. Lemon Poppyseed Scones

Best Scone Recipes: Lemon Poppyseed Scones

Lemon Poppyseed Scones by Chenée Today

Introducing a zesty recipe for Lemon Poppyseed Scones, made with sour cream for a rich texture. Perfectly paired with a hot cup of Earl Grey tea or a delicate floral rose petal tea, these scones are a refreshing treat for any time of year, but especially delightful during the spring and summer months.

16. Matcha Almond Scones with Bergamot Glaze

Best Scone Recipes: Matcha Almond Scones with Bergamot Glaze

Matcha Almond Scones with Bergamot Glaze by Sift & Simmer

Looking for a unique scone recipe? Try these Matcha Almond Scones with Bergamot Glaze - they're perfect for an afternoon tea break and pair well with a cup of green tea or a floral herbal tea. The earthy matcha and nutty almond flavors combined with the citrusy bergamot glaze create a perfect balance of flavors!

17. Tropical Pineapple Scones

Best Scone Recipes: Tropical Pineapple Scones

Tropical Pineapple Scones by xoxo Bella

These Tropical Pineapple Scones are bursting with the flavors of lemon, vanilla, and almonds, making them a deliciously sweet and tangy treat for any time of day. Pair them with a tropical fruit tea, a refreshing iced tea or an iced matcha latte for the perfect afternoon treat.

18. Amaretto Cherry Scones

Best Scone Recipes: Amaretto Cherry Scones

Amaretto Cherry Scones by Luci’s Morsels

Indulge in the decadent flavor of Amaretto and juicy cherries with these delicious Amaretto Cherry Scones. Perfect for a special breakfast or as a sweet treat, enjoy them with a cup of warm tea or coffee for an extra cozy experience.

19. Banana Bread Scones Recipe with Easy Maple Glaze

Best Scone Recipes: Banana Bread Scones Recipe with Easy Maple Glaze

Banana Bread Scones Recipe with Easy Maple Glaze by Suburbia Unwrapped

Looking for a delicious twist on banana bread? Try these Banana Bread Scones with Easy Maple Glaze! They are perfect for breakfast, brunch or afternoon tea and pair well with a warming cup of black tea or a smooth honey-like rooibos tea.

20. The Best Strawberry Scones

Best Scone Recipes: The Best Strawberry Scones

The Best Strawberry Scones by Vintage Kitchen Notes

Looking for a delicious treat to impress your guests? Look no further than these Best Strawberry Scones made with buttermilk and topped with a sweet strawberry glaze! Perfect for a garden tea party, these scones pair well with a variety of teas including classic Earl Grey, fruity Hibiscus tea, or even a champagne cocktail for a Royal tea time.

21. Healthy Raspberry Scones Recipe

Best Scone Recipes: Healthy Raspberry Scones Recipe

Looking for a healthy and delicious scone recipe? Try these Healthy Raspberry Scones made with wholemeal flour and sweetened with vegan-friendly natural agave syrup. They're the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of hot tea on a cozy afternoon!

Enjoy a Scone (or Two!) with Your Next Cuppa!

Scones are a delightful and versatile treat that can be enjoyed any time of day. Whether you prefer classic English round scones, savory cheese and herb scones, or sweet treats like chocolate chip or white chocolate scones, there's a recipe in this collection for every taste and occasion. So why not try out a few of these scone recipes and elevate your tea time, breakfast, or snack time experience? With so many delicious options to choose from, you're sure to find a new favorite!

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