Name: Easy Raisin Hot Cross Scones
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 305 grams cake flour; 60 grams white sugar; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 2 tsp mixed spice; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground ginger; 1/2 tsp salt; 130 grams cold butter (grated or cut into small cubes); 100 grams raisins and sultanas; 30 grams dried citrus peel; 250 ml buttermilk (1 cup); 1 tsp vanilla extract or essence; 1 egg egg (to brush the tops); sugar (to sprinkle optional)

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There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked Easy Raisin Hot Cross Scones wafting through the house, especially as Easter approaches. I remember the excitement of family gatherings during this season, where these delightful scones would always take center stage. Each bite was a soft and fluffy experience, filled with the sweetness of raisins and a hint of cinnamon. These scones have a way of bringing everyone together, creating a sense of comfort and nostalgia that’s hard to replicate.

Every Easter, my family would have a tradition of baking these scones together. It was a time for laughter, stories, and sprinkling a little sugar on top for that perfect crunch. As we rolled and cut the dough, I felt a deep connection to my heritage, to the recipes passed down through generations. Whether served for breakfast or as a delightful treat during the day, these scones are more than just a recipe; they are a celebration of love, family, and the joy of being together.

As you embark on your own journey of creating these Easy Raisin Hot Cross Scones, I encourage you to embrace the moments, the mess, and the memories that come along with baking. Let every knead, every fold, and every sprinkle tell a story. Trust me, you’ll find that these scones not only taste incredible but also bring people closer, making your Easter celebrations even more special.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
32 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
22 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
9 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Peeler, Grater, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why We Love This Easy Raisin Hot Cross Scones

Perfect for Easter Celebrations

The Easy Raisin Hot Cross Scones are truly a staple for Easter gatherings. With their rich history rooted in tradition, they symbolize the end of Lent and are often enjoyed during the festive season. Baking these scones can spark conversations about past celebrations, making them a great addition to your family’s Easter brunch.

Delightful Flavor Combinations

What I love about these scones is the blend of flavors. The sweetness of raisins and sultanas, combined with the warm notes of cinnamon and mixed spices, create a comforting taste that’s hard to resist. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making them suitable for any time of the day.

Soft and Fluffy Texture

When made correctly, these scones emerge from the oven with a soft interior and a slightly crispy exterior. The process of rubbing butter into the flour until it resembles fine crumbs is crucial. This technique yields that light and airy texture we all crave in a great scone.

Easy to Prepare

You don’t need to be a baking expert to create these scones. The recipe is straightforward and perfect for bakers of all skill levels. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. It’s a wonderful opportunity to involve kids in the kitchen too—watching them roll out the dough and cut the shapes brings joy to the baking experience!

Customizable to Your Liking

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can easily make this scone your own. Consider adding a splash of your favorite citrus zest or even experimenting with different dried fruits. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this recipe so special.

Lasting Memories

Every time I bake these scones, I’m reminded of the laughter, the stories, and the love shared around the table. They not only fill your tummy but also warm your heart, creating memories that last a lifetime. So gather your loved ones and make your own batch of Easy Raisin Hot Cross Scones this Easter. You won’t regret it!

Recipe Ingredients for Easy Raisin Hot Cross Scones

The ingredients for these Easy Raisin Hot Cross Scones are simple yet essential, working together to create a delightful treat. Each element plays a specific role in achieving that coveted fluffy texture and rich flavor. From the cake flour that forms the base, to the buttermilk that adds moisture, every ingredient is a key player in this scrumptious recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:

305 grams of cake flour – The main component giving the scones that light and fluffy texture.
60 grams of white sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the spice.
1/2 tsp of baking powder – Helps the scones rise beautifully.
1/2 tsp of baking soda – Works in conjunction with the buttermilk for leavening.
2 tsp of mixed spice – A blend of warm spices that brings depth of flavor.
1 tsp of cinnamon – Infuses a warm and cozy aroma.
1/2 tsp of ground ginger – Adds a gentle zing to the flavor profile.
1/2 tsp of salt – Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
130 grams of cold butter, grated or cut into small cubes – Provides that rich, buttery flavor.
100 grams of raisins and sultanas – Bring natural sweetness and chewy texture.
30 grams of dried citrus peel – Adds a delightful citrusy note to the mix.
250 ml (1 cup) of buttermilk – Moisture and richness that bind the dough together.
1 tsp of vanilla extract or essence – A hint of sweetness and warmth.
1 egg to brush the tops – Gives the scones a beautiful golden color.
Sugar to sprinkle (optional) – For that extra sweetness and crunch on top!

Preparation Steps for Easy Raisin Hot Cross Scones

Making Easy Raisin Hot Cross Scones is a delightful experience that brings the warmth of baking into your kitchen. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of delicious scones ready to enjoy in no time.

Start by gathering all your ingredients to ensure a smooth process. In a large bowl, combine the cake flour, white sugar, baking powder, baking soda, mixed spice, cinnamon, ground ginger, and salt. Use a whisk to blend these dry ingredients thoroughly, ensuring there are no lumps.
Next, add the cold butter to your dry mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. It’s okay if there are a few larger pieces of butter left; they will melt during baking, creating pockets of richness.
Now, fold in the raisins, sultanas, and dried citrus peel into the mixture. This adds sweetness and a burst of flavor to each scone. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
In a separate bowl, mix the vanilla extract with the buttermilk. Stir this mixture well, as it will add moisture to your dough. Pour the buttermilk mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix; it’s fine if it looks a bit crumbly.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Your goal isn’t to overwork the dough, so be gentle! Form it into a thick disk, around 2.5 to 3 cm high.
Using a sharp knife, cut the disk into 8 triangles, similar to how you would slice a pizza. Alternatively, you can use a 5 cm to 6 cm cookie cutter to create round scones. Gather any remaining dough, press it together, and cut additional scones until all the dough is used.
Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the tops of the scones with the egg wash. This will give them a lovely golden color as they bake. If you like, sprinkle a little sugar on top for added sweetness and a crunchy texture.
Transfer the scones onto a lined baking sheet. For best results, place them in the fridge for about 20 minutes while you preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Chilling the scones will help them rise better.
Once your oven is preheated, bake the scones for 20 to 22 minutes, or until they are golden brown and well risen. To prevent them from over-browning, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil midway through baking.
Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature with a dollop of butter or your favorite jam!

Things Worth Knowing

Perfect Temperature: Ensure your butter is cold when you start. It helps create a flaky texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid tough scones.
Chill for Better Rise: Chilling the scone dough before baking helps them maintain shape and rise beautifully.
Check for Doneness: Look for a golden-brown color and a firm texture when tapped on the bottom. They should sound hollow.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Baking is an art, and with that comes a few personal tips to ensure your Easy Raisin Hot Cross Scones are a hit every time. Here are some recommendations to elevate your baking game:

Storage: Keep your baked scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness.
Freezing: You can freeze your scones for up to 3 months. Just be sure to defrost and warm them before serving for the best texture.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits or spices. Adding chocolate chips or nuts can also create a delightful twist.
Serving Suggestions: Pair your scones with clotted cream or your favorite fruit jam for a delicious afternoon tea experience.
Make Ahead: Prepare the scone dough in advance and refrigerate it. When you’re ready, just cut and bake for fresh scones.
Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on your scones while baking. Every oven is different, and slight adjustments may be necessary.

Serve This Easy Raisin Hot Cross Scones With

When it comes to enjoying Easy Raisin Hot Cross Scones, there are countless delightful pairings that can enhance your experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve them:

Traditional Tea: Serve these scones alongside your favorite cup of tea for a classic afternoon treat.
Fruit Spreads: Pair them with apricot jam or strawberry preserves for a sweet and tart contrast.
Cheese Board: Include them as part of a cheese board featuring soft cheeses and nuts for a savory twist.
Brunch Buffet: These scones make a wonderful addition to any brunch spread, complementing dishes like quiches and fresh fruit.
Seasonal Occasions: Ideal for Easter celebrations, they can also be enjoyed during spring gatherings or picnics.
Storage Tips: To keep them fresh, store any leftovers in a cool, dry place, ensuring they retain their delightful texture.

FAQ

Easy Raisin Hot Cross Scones are a traditional baked good typically enjoyed during Easter celebrations. They are soft, fluffy scones made with cake flour, buttermilk, and a delightful mix of spices, filled with raisins, sultanas, and dried citrus peel. The sweet and spicy aroma when they are baked is simply irresistible!

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough for Easy Raisin Hot Cross Scones in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, simply cut the scones from the dough, brush with egg wash, and bake. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh scones without much fuss on the day of your gathering!

To store leftover Easy Raisin Hot Cross Scones, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure they are completely cooled, wrap them in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to three months!

To refresh your Easy Raisin Hot Cross Scones, you can reheat them in the oven or air fryer. Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) and place the scones on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5 minutes until warmed through. This will help restore their freshness and softness!

Conclusion

The Easy Raisin Hot Cross Scones are truly a delightful treat that can bring joy to any gathering. Their soft texture, warm spices, and sweet bursts of fruit create a comforting experience that everyone can enjoy. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, whether for Easter or any special occasion. Your family and friends will surely love them, and you’ll create lasting memories together in the kitchen.