22 Best Scone Recipes for Afternoon Tea: Sweet, Savoury & Traditional
The best scone recipes for afternoon tea are often the simplest, light, fluffy, and freshly baked, ready to be split open and topped with jam and clotted cream. A warm scone alongside a pot of tea is a small ritual that never loses its charm.
In this collection, you will find recipes for traditional British scones that rise tall and golden, buttery American-style triangle scones packed with flavour, and savoury scones that are perfect for a more unusual twist on tea time.
Classic or creative, sweet or savoury, there’s a scone here to suit every occasion, and they never fail to bring comfort to the table.
Table of Contents
- The History of Scones
- British vs. American Scones
- Cream or Jam First? The Great Scone Debate
- Download FREE Afternoon Tea Party Planner
- 22 Best Scone Recipes
- 1. Easiest Ever Sultana Scones
- 2. Savory Scones
- 3. 3-Ingredient Scones With Eton Mess Topping
- 4. Triple Chocolate Scones
- 5. Buttery Earl Grey Scones with Lemon Glaze
- 6. Chocolate Chip Scones with Chocolate Drizzle
- 7. Seckel Pear and Pistachio Scones
- 8. Yogurt Almond Scones
- 9. Air Fryer Blueberry Scones
- 10. Copycat Starbucks Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe
- 11. Lavender Scones
- 12. Apple Cinnamon Scones
- 13. Easy Coffee Scones
- 14. Lemonade Scones
- 15. Lemon Poppyseed Scones
- 16. Matcha Almond Scones with Bergamot Glaze
- 17. Tropical Pineapple Scones
- 18. Amaretto Cherry Scones
- 19. Banana Bread Scones Recipe with Easy Maple Glaze
- 20. The Best Strawberry Scones
- 21. Healthy Raspberry Scones Recipe
- 22. Pumpkin Scones with a Chai Tea Drizzle
- FAQs
The History of Scones
Scones have been a much-loved treat in Britain for centuries, but it wasn’t until the 19th and early 20th centuries that they became firmly associated with afternoon tea. The custom of serving scones (or “splits”) with clotted cream and jam, what we now know as a cream tea, grew in popularity across the West Country before spreading throughout Britain. The first printed reference to “cream tea” in this sense appeared in The Cornishman newspaper in 1932, describing the tradition in detail (British Food History).
Continue reading about 👉 the history of afternoon tea
British vs. American Scones
When British immigrants introduced scones to America, the recipe evolved:
🫖 Shape: Traditional British scones are round, while American scones are often cut into triangles.
🫖Texture: British scones are light and fluffy; American scones tend to be sweeter and denser.
🫖Flavours: American bakers often add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or glazes, while British recipes favour a simpler, buttery base, perfect with jam and clotted cream.
Despite these differences, both styles are super delicious in their own way and make an ideal companion for a lovely cup of tea!
Now it’s time to pop the kettle on, bake a batch of traditional British scones (or American-style scones), and serve them with clotted cream, jam, or even one of your favourite homemade preserves. It’s the simple pleasures in life that can turn any afternoon into a special occasion!
If you love to make homemade tea-time treats, you may also love to read 👉 24 DIY jam recipes for afternoon tea
Cream or Jam First? The Great Scone Debate
One of the most common questions people ask when enjoying scones is: Do you put cream or jam first? This has been a long-standing afternoon tea debate in Britain, and the answer often depends on where you are.
Cornish Method (Jam First): In Cornwall, it’s traditional to spread jam first on your scone, followed by a generous dollop of clotted cream. This way, the jam soaks slightly into the scone while the cream sits on top like icing. This is known as a Cornish scone.
Devonshire Method (Cream First): In Devon, the classic approach is to add clotted cream first, then spoon the jam on top. The idea is that the cream acts like butter, creating a rich base for the fruit preserve. This is known as a Devon scone.
Both are delicious, and there’s no right or wrong; it just comes down to preference. If you’re hosting an afternoon tea party, you might even want to serve scones with both methods so your guests can try each style.
Download FREE Afternoon Tea Party Planner
22 Best Scone Recipes for Afternoon Tea, Breakfast, or Elevenses
Discover 22 unique scone recipes perfect for afternoon tea, elevenses, or even breakfast time! From light and fluffy traditional British scones to buttery American-style triangles, there’s something here for everyone and every occasion. You will find sweet favourites, including triple chocolate scones, fragrant twists such as Earl Grey scones, and even modern flavours, just like matcha green tea scones.
1. Easiest Ever Sultana Scones
Sultana Scones by Chef Not Required
These traditional English sultana scones are light, fluffy, and packed with sweet, plump sultanas. A true afternoon tea classic, they’re easy to bake at home and taste wonderful served warm with clotted cream and jam. Perfect for cream tea, elevenses, or even a quick breakfast, this recipe shows just how simple it is to enjoy authentic homemade scones fresh from the oven.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: Serve with a lovely traditional bold tea, such as English breakfast or a seriously rich Assam.
2. Savory Scones
Savory Scones by Vintage Kitchen Notes
These savoury scones are a delicious twist on the classic sweet version and make a fantastic addition to any afternoon tea spread. Packed with flavours including cheddar, parmesan, chives, or even smoky bacon, they’re perfect served warm with a little butter. Ideal as a light lunch, a breakfast bake, or a savoury balance alongside cakes and sweets at tea time, these scones are versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: Pair your cheese and herb scones with a brisk English Breakfast tea for a bold, malty contrast, or try a delicate Darjeeling tea if you’d like something lighter and more floral to complement the savoury flavours.
3. 3-Ingredient Scones With Eton Mess Topping
3-Ingredient Scones With Eton Mess Topping by The Cinnamon Jar
These 3-ingredient scones with Eton Mess topping are the ultimate indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth. Topped with whipped cream, juicy strawberries, and crumbled meringue, they transform the humble scone into a show-stopping dessert. Quick to prepare yet impressive to serve, they make a perfect treat for afternoon tea, elevenses, or even as a lighter alternative to traditional clotted cream and jam.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: The richness of the cream and sweetness of the strawberries pair beautifully with a bold, malty Assam tea, which balances the flavours without being overpowered. For a more delicate option, try a first flush Darjeeling, whose floral and fruity notes echo the freshness of the strawberries.
4. Triple Chocolate Scones
Triple Chocolate Scones by Lane and Grey Fare
Dark, fudgy, and impossibly rich, these triple chocolate scones are the ultimate treat for chocoholics. Loaded with cocoa, chocolate chunks, and drizzled glaze, they’re halfway between a scone and a brownie, perfect for when only pure indulgence will do.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: To cut through the richness, pair these scones with a bold Assam tea, whose malty depth complements the chocolate beautifully. If you’d like a more adventurous match, try a spiced chai tea (or this hot choc chai recipe!). The warm cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves add a fragrant contrast to the decadent chocolate flavours.
5. Buttery Earl Grey Scones with Lemon Glaze
Buttery Earl Grey Scones With Lemon Glaze by Ugly Duckling Bakery
These buttery Earl Grey scones with lemon glaze are a fragrant twist on the traditional recipe. The tea leaves add subtle citrus and floral notes, while the zesty lemon glaze gives a refreshing finish. Perfect for an afternoon tea spread, a light breakfast, or even a sweet elevenses treat, they’re elegant, simple to bake, and bursting with flavour.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: Enjoy these scones with a classic Earl Grey tea for a beautifully layered flavour pairing, or opt for a lighter Lady Grey tea, which enhances the citrus notes of the lemon glaze without overpowering the delicate scones.
6. Chocolate Chip Scones with Chocolate Drizzle
Chocolate Chip Scones with Chocolate Drizzle by A Baking Journey
If you love chocolate chip cookies, you’ll adore these chocolate chip scones with chocolate drizzle. Buttery, golden, and studded with rich chocolate pieces, they strike the perfect balance between tender scone and indulgent dessert. The drizzle of melted chocolate takes them to the next level, making them an irresistible treat!
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: Pair these scones with a robust Assam tea to balance the sweetness, or try a smooth Darjeeling second flush whose fruity notes complement the chocolate beautifully. For something extra indulgent, serve them with a creamy chai latte to echo the richness of the drizzle.
7. Seckel Pear and Pistachio Scones
Seckel Pear and Pistachio Scones by Strength and Sunshine
These Seckel pear and pistachio scones are a unique seasonal bake, combining the sweetness of ripe pears with the nutty crunch of pistachios. Naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly, they’re bursting with autumn flavours and make a wholesome choice for breakfast or elevenses. Elegant yet easy to prepare, they bring a touch of sophistication to any tea table.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: Pair these scones with a creamy tea latte for cosy comfort, or try a fragrant spiced chai, the warming spices complement the sweetness of the pears and the nuttiness of the pistachios beautifully.
8. Yogurt Almond Scones
Yogurt Almond Scones by Chef’s Pencil
These yogurt almond scones are a lighter twist on the classic recipe, with yogurt giving them a soft, fluffy texture and almonds adding a delicate nutty flavour. They’re easy to bake and versatile enough to enjoy any time of the day. Delicious served warm with butter or jam, they’re a wholesome yet indulgent treat.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: Pair these scones with a floral jasmine green tea for a fragrant balance, or choose a smooth Earl Grey tea to complement the nutty almond notes with a hint of citrus.
9. Air Fryer Blueberry Scones
Air Fryer Blueberry Scones by Cooking School Dropout
These air fryer blueberry scones are a modern twist on a timeless classic. Bursting with juicy blueberries and baked to golden perfection in minutes, they’re lighter, quicker, and just as delicious as traditional oven-baked scones. Ideal for a speedy breakfast or an afternoon tea treat, they combine convenience with irresistible flavour.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: Pair them with a classic English Breakfast tea for a bold contrast to the sweet blueberries, or enjoy with a delicate jasmine green tea, which enhances the fruit’s natural freshness.
10. Copycat Starbucks Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe
Copycat Starbucks Cranberry Orange Scones Recipe by The Three Snackateers
Bright and zesty, these cranberry orange scones bring together the perfect balance of tart fruit and sweet citrus. Inspired by the popular Starbucks bakery treat, this homemade version is fresher, softer, and every bit as indulgent with its generous glaze. They’re a cheerful pick-me-up for grey mornings, a sweet addition to brunch, or a festive treat at afternoon tea.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: The citrus and cranberry notes pair perfectly with Lady Grey tea, or for something a little cosier, try a spiced masala chai to add warmth and depth.
11. Lavender Scones
Lavender Scones by JCO Cooking Odyssey
Bring a little countryside charm to your tea table with these beautifully fragrant Lavender Scones. Infused with floral notes, they strike the perfect balance between sweet and delicate. The dusting of powdered sugar and pairing with jam and cream make them an irresistible centrepiece for afternoon tea.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: Best enjoyed with a cup of lavender tea for a full floral experience, or with a bright lemon tea to contrast the sweetness.
12. Apple Cinnamon Scones
Apple Cinnamon Scones by Quiet Baking Day
Nothing says cosy quite like the combination of apples and cinnamon. These Apple Cinnamon Scones bring together tender chunks of apple, a buttery crumb, and a swirl of warming spice, all topped with a sweet drizzle of glaze. They’re like apple pie in scone form, perfect for enjoying on a crisp afternoon or as a comforting morning bake.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: Try them with a steaming cup of chai tea to echo the warm spices, or a classic English Breakfast tea for balance. For warmer days, try a refreshing iced tea.
13. Easy Coffee Scones
Easy Coffee Scones by Bright-Eyed Baker
For those who can’t resist a coffee kick, these Easy Coffee Scones are the ultimate bake. Infused with bold espresso flavour and finished with a sweet glaze, they strike the perfect balance between indulgence and energy boost. Whether you enjoy them as a mid-morning pick-me-up or alongside dessert, they bring a café-style treat straight to your kitchen.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: Pair them with a mellow chai latte or a smooth cappuccino-inspired tea blend for the ultimate coffeehouse vibe.
14. Lemonade Scones
Lemonade Scones by Cooking With Nana Ling
Sometimes the simplest recipes are the best, and these Lemonade Scones prove it. Made with just three ingredients, they’re wonderfully light, fluffy, and ready in no time at all. Perfect for when you want an impressive treat without the fuss, these scones taste even better topped with clotted cream and strawberry jam.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: Enjoy them with a classic English Breakfast tea for a bold contrast, or keep things delicate with a cup of chamomile for a softer pairing.
15. Lemon Poppyseed Scones
Lemon Poppyseed Scones by Chenée Today
Bright, zesty, and speckled with tiny bursts of crunch, these Lemon Poppyseed Scones are a cheerful twist on the traditional bake. The lemon glaze adds a tangy finish that perfectly balances the nutty texture of poppyseeds. They’re light yet satisfying, ideal for spring picnics, sunny brunches, or an uplifting afternoon snack.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: Enjoy with a floral cup of rose petal tea for elegance or a classic Earl Grey to complement the citrus notes.
16. Matcha Almond Scones with Bergamot Glaze
Matcha Almond Scones with Bergamot Glaze by Sift & Simmer
If you’re after something a little out of the ordinary, these Matcha Almond Scones with Bergamot Glaze are a real showstopper. The vibrant green of the matcha gives them an earthy depth, while the sliced almonds add just the right crunch. Drizzle over a sweet, citrusy bergamot glaze and you’ve got a bake that feels both refined and adventurous.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: Pair with a cup of jasmine tea or a mellow green tea for a serene yet flavourful tea break.
17. 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. They’re the kind of scone that feels like a mini vacation!
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: 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
Amaretto Cherry Scones by Luci’s Morsels
Bring a touch of indulgence to your tea table with these Amaretto Cherry Scones. The sweet almond flavour of amaretto pairs beautifully with juicy cherries, creating a scone that feels both comforting and sophisticated. Serve them warm with a light dusting of icing sugar and enjoy as a special breakfast treat or alongside a pot of tea for an elegant afternoon pick-me-up.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: Best enjoyed with a cup of Darjeeling tea, whose delicate muscatel notes balance the richness of amaretto and the sweetness of cherries. For something cosier, a black cherry tea makes a lovely match.
19. Banana Bread Scones Recipe with Easy Maple Glaze
Banana Bread Scones Recipe with Easy Maple Glaze by Suburbia Unwrapped
If you love banana bread, you’ll adore these Banana Bread Scones topped with a silky maple glaze. Soft, flavourful, and lightly spiced, they bring all the comfort of classic banana bread in a tender scone form. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon tea treat, they strike a balance between homely and indulgent.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: These scones are best enjoyed with a strong Assam tea to complement the richness of banana and maple. For a caffeine-free option, try rooibos tea, which enhances the natural sweetness.
20. The Best Strawberry Scones
The Best Strawberry Scones by Vintage Kitchen Notes
Bring a splash of summer to your tea table with these Best Strawberry Scones. Made with tangy buttermilk and finished with a glossy strawberry glaze, they’re fruity, vibrant, and sure to brighten up any afternoon spread. Perfect for a garden party or a leisurely weekend bake, these scones are as eye-catching as they are delicious.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: Serve with a fragrant hibiscus tea for a fruity boost, or go classic with Earl Grey for a refined garden-party feel. For something truly indulgent, enjoy them alongside a champagne cocktail for a Royal tea-time twist.
21. Healthy Raspberry Scones Recipe
Light, fruity, and wonderfully wholesome, these Healthy Raspberry Scones are the perfect guilt-free bake. Made with wholemeal flour and sweetened naturally with agave syrup, they strike a balance between indulgence and nourishment. Bursting with tart raspberries, they’re ideal for a cosy afternoon pick-me-up without feeling too heavy.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: Serve with a steaming cup of rooibos tea for a naturally caffeine-free option, or a mellow Darjeeling to complement the tart fruitiness of the raspberries.
22. Pumpkin Scones with a Chai Tea Drizzle
Bring the cosy flavours of autumn to your tea table with these Pumpkin Scones topped with a fragrant chai tea drizzle. The warm spices of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves perfectly complement the earthy pumpkin, while the sweet drizzle adds a hint of indulgence.
🫖 Tea pairing suggestion: Best enjoyed with a spiced chai latte or a strong Assam tea, these scones are a true seasonal delight.
FAQs
1. What is the secret to making light and fluffy scones?
The key is to handle the dough as little as possible, use cold butter, and bake at a high temperature. Overmixing can make scones dense rather than airy.
2. Should scones be eaten warm or cold?
Scones taste best slightly warm, straight from the oven, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature. A quick reheat in the oven brings them back to life.
3. What is the difference between American and British scones?
British scones are less sweet and usually served with clotted cream and jam, while American scones are often triangular, sweeter, and may include glazes or mix-ins such as chocolate chips.
4. Can I freeze scones after baking?
Yes, scones freeze great. Once cooled, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to three months. Simply reheat in the oven before serving.
5. How long do homemade scones last?
Freshly baked scones are best eaten the same day, but they will keep in an airtight container for up to two days. After that, they start to dry out.
6. What’s the best tea to serve with scones?
Classic black teas such as Earl Grey, Assam, or Darjeeling pair beautifully with traditional scones. Fruity or herbal teas can be matched with flavoured varieties like strawberry or lavender scones.
7. Do I need to use self-raising flour for scones?
Self-raising flour is traditional in many British recipes, but you can make your own by adding baking powder to plain flour. Each recipe will have its own ratio of flour to baking powder.
8. Why don’t my scones rise properly?
This can happen if your raising agent is old, your oven isn’t hot enough, or the dough was rolled too thin. For tall scones, keep the dough at least 2–3 cm thick.
9. Can I make scones without dairy?
Yes, scones can be made dairy-free by using plant-based milk and vegan butter. Coconut cream or oat milk makes an excellent substitute.
10. What’s the proper way to eat a scone, cream first or jam first?
Ah, the great debate! In Cornwall, jam goes on first, followed by clotted cream. In Devon, it’s cream first, then jam. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.
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