Indulge in the delicate allure of our light and fluffy Earl Grey Scones, generously infused with the distinct flavor of Earl Grey tea and crowned with a vibrant, zesty lemon glaze. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of fragrant bergamot and bright citrus, creating an unforgettable sensory experience. Perfect for a cozy London Fog moment, a sophisticated afternoon tea, or simply as a delightful anytime treat, these scones are poised to become your new favorite baked good.
Prepare to bid farewell to any past disappointments with dry, crumbly scones, because this recipe redefines perfection! Our Earl Grey Lemon Scones are a testament to what a scone should be: wonderfully moist, incredibly tender, and bursting with a nuanced Earl Grey essence, highlighted by its natural lemon undertones from the bergamot oil. The subtle yet profound flavor of the tea is complemented beautifully by the quick, easy-to-make lemon glaze. Imagine: the initial crispness of the exterior giving way to a soft, buttery interior, followed by a refreshing burst of lemon, and finally, the lingering, elegant notes of Earl Grey tea. It’s an experience best savored with a hot cup of its namesake tea, creating a truly harmonious pairing.
Beyond their exquisite taste and texture, these scones are surprisingly simple to prepare, making them accessible even for novice bakers. What’s more, their make-ahead and freeze-friendly nature means you can enjoy freshly baked scones whenever the craving strikes, with minimal effort. Whether you’re planning a lavish brunch or a quiet moment of indulgence, these scones offer both convenience and gourmet quality.
The Irresistible Charm of Earl Grey Scones
There’s something inherently comforting and luxurious about a perfectly baked scone. When infused with the sophisticated aroma of Earl Grey tea, that comfort transforms into pure bliss. Earl Grey tea, renowned for its distinctive bergamot flavor, brings a unique floral and citrusy note to these baked delights. This isn’t just about adding tea; it’s about weaving a thread of aromatic elegance throughout the dough, making these scones stand out from traditional varieties. The bergamot, a fragrant citrus fruit, naturally carries lemony undertones, which makes the lemon glaze a truly inspired choice for topping these beauties. It amplifies the existing citrus notes in the tea, creating a brighter, more pronounced flavor profile that dances on the palate.
These scones are not just a treat for your taste buds; they’re a versatile addition to any meal or snack occasion. Imagine them as the star of a continental breakfast spread, alongside an assortment of delightful muffins like bakery-style pistachio muffins, jumbo blueberry muffins, spiced pumpkin muffins, classic banana nut muffins, or cinnamon apple streusel muffins. Their light texture and aromatic flavor also make them an ideal companion to a robust cup of coffee, a creamy London Fog, or, of course, a fresh brew of Earl Grey tea for a truly immersive experience.
Mastering Your Ingredients for Perfect Scones
The secret to creating truly exceptional scones lies in selecting the right ingredients and handling them with care. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that coveted light, fluffy, and tender texture. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:
- Unsalted Butter: This is the cornerstone of a good scone. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the recipe. The crucial step here is freezing it and then grating it. This ensures that the butter remains very cold and disperses evenly throughout the dough in tiny flakes. As these flakes melt during baking, they release steam, creating pockets of air that result in an incredibly tender and flaky scone. Good quality butter will impart a superior flavor.
- Earl Grey Tea: Both loose leaf tea and tea from bags are suitable. We use tea in two ways here: a portion is steeped to create a liquid infusion that adds deep flavor and moisture, while another portion of dry tea leaves is directly incorporated into the dough. This dual application ensures that the distinctive bergamot aroma and taste are prominent in every bite.
- Dry Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the scones.
- Baking powder: The primary leavening agent, responsible for the scones’ rise and airy texture. Ensure it’s fresh for best results.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the scones just enough to balance the tea and lemon, and contributes to a tender crumb.
- Kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Wet Ingredients:
- Sour cream: Adds richness, moisture, and a subtle tang that complements the lemon and bergamot. Its acidity also reacts with the baking powder, boosting the rise. Using it cold is key.
- Large egg: Acts as a binder and contributes to the scone’s structure and tenderness. Like other wet ingredients, it should be cold.
- Vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla rounds out the flavors and adds a comforting warmth.
- Lemon Icing:
- Powdered sugar: Forms the base of the smooth, pourable glaze.
- Fresh lemon juice: Provides the essential bright, tart flavor that perfectly contrasts the Earl Grey. Freshly squeezed is always best for maximum flavor.
- Vanilla paste or extract: Enhances the sweetness and adds depth to the glaze.
The Golden Rules: What Makes Scones Truly Good?
Achieving the perfect scone isn’t a mystery; it hinges on two fundamental principles:
- Extremely Cold Ingredients: This is arguably the most critical factor. When butter, sour cream, and even the steeped tea are kept as cold as possible, the butter remains solid in the dough. As the scones bake in a hot oven, this cold butter rapidly melts, creating steam that puffs up the layers of dough. This process results in the light, airy, and flaky texture characteristic of an excellent scone. Warm butter would simply incorporate into the flour, leading to a denser, more cookie-like consistency.
- High-Quality Butter: Since butter is a primary component of scones, its quality significantly impacts the final flavor. A good, flavorful unsalted butter will elevate your scones from good to extraordinary, contributing a rich, creamy depth that complements the Earl Grey beautifully. Think of butter as a flavor enhancer, not just a fat.
By adhering to these simple yet vital rules, you’re well on your way to baking scones that will impress even the most discerning palates.
Crafting Your Earl Grey Scones: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making these fragrant Earl Grey scones is a rewarding experience. Follow these steps for best results, paying close attention to keeping your ingredients cold.
STEP 1: Prepare the Butter. Take your unsalted butter directly from the freezer. Using the large openings of a box grater, grate the butter into small, cold shreds. Immediately return the grated butter to the freezer to keep it thoroughly chilled while you prepare the remaining ingredients. This prevents it from melting and ensures flakiness.
STEP 2: Infuse the Tea. Bring water to a boil, then pour ½ cup of boiling water over three Earl Grey tea bags. Allow the tea to steep for about 10 minutes to extract maximum flavor. Once steeped, carefully wring out the tea bags to get every drop of the concentrated tea, then measure out ¼ cup (2 oz) of this strong tea infusion. Place this liquid tea in the fridge to cool completely. This cold tea will be part of your wet ingredients.
STEP 3: Combine Dry Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and kosher salt. For an extra punch of Earl Grey flavor and visual appeal, carefully cut open one additional Earl Grey tea bag (approximately 1 tablespoon of tea leaves) and add its contents directly to the dry mixture. Whisk everything thoroughly to ensure an even distribution.
STEP 4: Mix Wet Ingredients. In a separate medium bowl, combine the chilled ¼ cup steeped Earl Grey tea, cold sour cream, large cold egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth.
STEP 5: Bring the Dough Together. Add the frozen, grated butter to the large bowl containing your dry ingredients. Toss lightly with your hands to coat the butter in flour; this helps prevent the butter from clumping. Next, pour the wet ingredients mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon, gently mix until just combined and a shaggy dough begins to form. Be careful not to overmix at this stage. Finish bringing the dough together quickly with your hands, pressing it gently to form a cohesive ball. The less you handle the dough, the more tender your scones will be.
STEP 6: Shape and Cut the Scones. Lightly flour a clean work surface. Turn out the scone dough and gently press it into a large circle, approximately 7-8 inches in diameter and about one inch thick. Using a sharp chef’s knife or a sturdy bench scraper, cut the dough into 8 even wedges. This classic scone shape is both elegant and efficient.
STEP 7: Prepare for Baking. Carefully transfer the scone wedges to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Arrange them in a circle, maintaining a space of about ½ to 1 inch between each wedge. This slight proximity encourages a better rise during baking. Place the entire baking sheet with the scones into the freezer to chill for at least 15-20 minutes while your oven preheats to 400℉ (200°C). Chilling the scones again before baking is crucial for maximizing their flaky texture and rise.
Pro Tip for a Perfect Rise! Keeping your scone wedges somewhat close to each other on the baking sheet allows them to support each other as they rise, encouraging a taller, more dramatic lift compared to baking them completely separated.
STEP 8: Bake and Cool. Bake the scones for 16-18 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown on top and cooked through. The exact baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the scones to cool completely on the baking sheet. Resist the temptation to glaze them while warm, as the glaze will simply melt off.
Crafting the Bright Lemon Glaze
While your delightful Earl Grey scones are cooling to perfection, it’s the ideal time to whip up the bright and tangy lemon glaze. This simple addition elevates the scones with a vibrant citrus kick that beautifully complements the bergamot notes of the tea.
To make the lemon glaze, combine the powdered sugar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and vanilla extract or paste in a small bowl. Whisk these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, thick but still pourable consistency. The texture is key here – you want it to coat the back of a spoon without being too runny.
Adjusting Consistency:
- If your glaze turns out too thick, add a tiny splash more lemon juice (or a drop of water or milk if you prefer a less intense lemon flavor) until it reaches the desired flow.
- If, conversely, the glaze is too thin, gradually whisk in a little more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it thickens up. Remember, it’s always easier to add more liquid or sugar gradually than to fix an overly thin or thick glaze.
Once the scones are completely cool to the touch, generously spoon the lemon glaze over the top of each one, allowing it to drip slightly down the sides for an appealing finish. For an extra flourish and a burst of fresh aroma, consider garnishing each glazed scone with a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest or delicate candied lemon slices.
Should you wish to experiment with different flavor and color combinations, these scones also pair wonderfully with other glazes. For a whimsical twist, try them with our vibrant blueberry glaze recipe!
Exciting Flavor Variations to Explore
While our Earl Grey Scones with Lemon Glaze are magnificent as they are, don’t hesitate to get creative with flavor variations to suit your mood or occasion. Here are some inspiring ideas:
- Lavender Infusion: For a sophisticated floral twist, steep culinary lavender in milk, cream, or water, and use this infused liquid as the base for your glaze instead of lemon juice. This creates a beautifully aromatic and calming scone.
- Pure Vanilla Elegance: Opt for a classic and comforting flavor by using the fragrant insides of a vanilla bean or a high-quality vanilla paste to create a straight vanilla icing. This allows the pure essence of the Earl Grey to shine through even more.
- Fruity Additions: Introduce delightful bursts of fruit directly into the scone dough. Dried cranberries, cherries, or apricots, finely chopped, make fantastic additions, adding chewiness and a touch of sweetness. For fresh fruit lovers, consider gently folding in ½ cup of chopped fresh blackberries or raspberries for a juicy counterpoint. Remember to keep the fruit pieces small to ensure even distribution and avoid weighing down the dough.
- Blueberry Glaze Delight: As mentioned, a vibrant blueberry glaze offers a stunning color contrast and a sweet, fruity flavor that pairs surprisingly well with Earl Grey. It’s an excellent choice for a brunch spread or a special occasion.
- Citrus Zest Boost: Beyond the lemon glaze, you can incorporate grated orange or lime zest directly into the scone dough for an additional layer of bright, citrusy aroma.
- Nutty Crunch: A handful of finely chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds folded into the dough can add a lovely texture and nutty flavor, creating a richer scone experience.
Storage and Freezing for Freshness and Convenience
One of the best qualities of these Earl Grey scones is their adaptability for storage, allowing you to enjoy their deliciousness over several days or even prepare them in advance for future enjoyment.
Storing Baked Scones:
Once baked and completely cooled, store your glazed or unglazed scones in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain wonderfully fresh and tender for 2-3 days. Beyond this period, while still edible, scones tend to lose moisture and can become considerably drier. For optimal freshness, a quick reheat in a toaster oven can revitalize them.
Freezing Unbaked Scones (Make-Ahead Method):
This is a fantastic option for having fresh, warm scones on demand!
- Follow the recipe instructions up to the point of shaping and cutting the scone wedges.
- Arrange the raw scone wedges on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 30 minutes, or until the scones are firm to the touch (this is called “flash freezing”). This prevents them from sticking together.
- Once flash-frozen, transfer the unbaked scones to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or an airtight container. Label with the date.
- Store them in the freezer for up to one month.
- When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen scone wedges directly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet (no need to thaw!). Bake them following the same recipe instructions (400℉ for 16-18 minutes), adding a couple of extra minutes if needed, until golden brown.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips
What is a London Fog scone?
A “London Fog” typically refers to an Earl Grey tea latte, made with Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, and vanilla syrup. Therefore, a “London Fog scone” is essentially another name for an Earl Grey scone! To truly capture the essence of a London Fog in scone form, you might consider omitting the lemon from the glaze and instead opting for a pure vanilla icing, enhancing the creamy, aromatic qualities reminiscent of the drink.
What makes scones rise best?
Several factors contribute to the best rise in scones:
- Very Cold Ingredients: As discussed, this is paramount. Cold butter creates steam, pushing the dough upwards. Cold wet ingredients prevent the butter from melting prematurely.
- Effective Leavening Agent: Baking powder is the primary leavener in this recipe. Ensure your baking powder is fresh and active for optimal lift.
- Minimal Handling: Overworking the dough develops gluten, which can lead to tough scones and inhibit rise. Mix just until combined.
- Chilling Before Baking: Freezing or refrigerating the shaped scones right before they go into the hot oven helps the butter stay solid longer, resulting in a more dramatic rise.
- Strategic Placement: Placing scones slightly close to each other on the baking sheet provides mutual support, encouraging them to rise taller.
Should you rest scones before baking?
While resting scones isn’t strictly mandatory for them to bake, it is highly recommended to chill them before baking. After shaping and cutting, placing the scones in the refrigerator or freezer for 15-30 minutes ensures they are as cold as possible. This extra chill time allows the butter to firm up again and the baking powder to fully activate once it hits the heat of the oven, leading to a much better rise and a flakier texture.
More Easy Breakfast & Brunch Recipes to Enjoy
If you loved these Earl Grey scones, you’ll surely want to explore more delightful baked goods perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack. Here are some of our other favorite easy recipes:
- Elegant Strawberry Almond Bostock Pastry with Croissant
- Irresistible Baked Glazed Blueberry Donuts
- Flavorful Bialy Bagels with Everything Seasoning
- Delicate Fruit & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Danish
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📖 Recipe
Earl Grey Scones with Lemon Glaze
Callan Wenner
Pin Recipe
Equipment
- Box grater
- Large & medium mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon
- Whisk
U.S. Cups vs Metric
Use the metric toggle to convert the measurements
Ingredients
- ½ cup boiling water
- 4 earl grey tea bags (3 to steep, 1 for the dough)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (frozen and grated)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ cup sour cream (cold)
- 1 large egg (cold)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Lemon Icing
- 1¼ cups powdered sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract
Instructions
- Boil water, then measure out ½ cup (4oz) and add three tea bags. Steep for 10 minutes, then wring out the tea bags to get all the flavor.½ cup boiling water, 4 earl grey tea bags
- Measure out ¼ cup (2oz) of the steeped tea to use for the scones. Place it in the fridge to chill completely.
- Grate the frozen butter, then store it in the fridge to keep it cold while preparing the rest of the ingredients.½ cup unsalted butter
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and the contents of 1 Earl Grey tea bag (loose leaves).2 cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup granulated sugar, 2½ teaspoons baking powder, ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- In another bowl, whisk together the ¼ cup chilled steeped tea, cold sour cream, cold egg, and vanilla extract.½ cup sour cream, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Add the cold, grated butter to the dry ingredients and toss gently to combine. Then, add the wet ingredients and mix together with a wooden spoon until just combined.
- Switch to your hands to quickly bring the dough together into a cohesive ball. Avoid overworking.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and gently press it into a circle about 7-8 inches in diameter and approximately one inch high.
- Use a bench scraper or a sharp knife to cut the round into 8 equal wedges, then transfer these to a large parchment-lined baking pan.
- Keep the wedges relatively close to each other on the pan, as this helps the scones rise better.
- Place the baking pan with the scones in the freezer to chill while the oven preheats to 400℉ (200°C).
- Once the oven is preheated, bake the scones for 16-18 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow them to cool completely on the pan before glazing.
Lemon Icing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla paste or extract until a thick, pourable icing is formed.1¼ cups powdered sugar, 3-4 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract
- If the icing is too thin, gradually add more powdered sugar. If it’s too thick, add more lemon juice (or a few drops of water) until the desired consistency is reached.
- Once the scones are completely cool, add a spoonful of glaze to each scone, spreading it evenly over the top. Garnish with a pinch of fresh lemon zest or delicate candied lemon slices for extra flair.
Video
Learn how to make these delicious Earl Grey Scones by watching our video guide.
Notes
Allow the scones to cool completely before applying the lemon glaze. If glazed while still warm, the icing will melt and run off, rather than setting nicely.
Store any leftover baked scones covered at room temperature for 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing instructions: For future enjoyment, prepare and cut the scones into wedges as per the recipe. Flash-freeze them on a cookie sheet for 30 minutes until solid. Then, transfer the unbaked, frozen scones to a sealed container or zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to one month. Bake directly from frozen following the same temperature and time instructions; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Carbohydrates: 57g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 59mg
Sodium: 221mg
Potassium: 70mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 32g
Vitamin A: 474IU
Vitamin C: 2mg
Calcium: 100mg
Iron: 2mg
The provided nutritional information is an estimate per serving. Accuracy is not guaranteed.
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