Homemade scones can be lighter and fluffier by omitting three common ingredients: butter, eggs, and sugar. Chef Carina of Recipes by Carina has shared a simple three-ingredient recipe that replaces these with lemonade, double cream, and self-raising flour.
The Secret Ingredient: Carbonated Lemonade
Carina revealed that the key to these scones is fizzy lemonade, such as Sprite or 7UP. Despite using lemonade, the scones do not have a lemon flavor. She explained, "It might seem like magic, but mixed with just self-rising flour and cream, these three ingredients create the most delicious light and fluffy scones and also the easiest scones you will ever make."
How the Ingredients Work
Traditional scones require rubbing cold butter into flour before adding eggs and milk. In this version, the cream coats the flour similarly to butter, while the carbonation in the lemonade helps the scones rise, resulting in a light, fluffy texture. If you don't have lemonade, sparkling water with a few tablespoons of sugar can be used, but still lemonade or still water will not work as the carbonation is essential for rising.
For substitutions, full-fat Greek yogurt or buttermilk can replace the cream, though these will yield less rich scones due to lower fat content.
Ingredients and Method
Makes 12 scones. Ingredients: 500g self-raising flour, 300ml double cream, 300ml carbonated lemonade. Self-raising flour can be substituted with plain flour and baking powder.
Method: Preheat oven to 220°C (200°C fan) or Gas Mark 7. Line a baking tray with non-stick paper. Combine flour, cream, and lemonade in a bowl, mixing gently with a wooden spoon until no dry patches remain. Turn dough onto a floured surface, shape into a 4cm thick rectangle, and cut into scones using a cutter or knife. Re-roll scraps as needed. Place scones on the tray, brush tops with milk, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and risen. Cool before serving.
Storage Tips
To keep scones fresh, wrap them in a tea towel. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
