Golden on the outside and tender on the inside, these blueberry buttermilk scones are a delightful balance of rich, buttery flavor and juicy, sweet blueberries. With a crisp top and a soft crumb, they make the perfect companion to your morning coffee or a sophisticated addition to afternoon tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These scones strike a perfect balance between decadence and simplicity. The buttermilk gives them a tender texture and subtle tang, while cold butter creates flakiness throughout. Fresh blueberries provide bursts of sweetness in every bite. Easy to make and ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is a reliable go-to for brunches, breakfast spreads, or any time you want to bake something special without the fuss.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup buttermilk (plus more for brushing)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• Optional: coarse sugar for topping

directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold, cubed butter and cut it into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Gently fold in the blueberries, trying not to crush them.
6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick round.
7. Use a biscuit cutter or knife to cut the dough into individual scones.
8. Transfer the scones to the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
9. Brush the tops with a little extra buttermilk and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired.
10. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
11. Let cool slightly before serving. These scones are best enjoyed warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 8 scones.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 15–18 minutes
Total time: 25–28 minutes

Variations

• Add lemon zest: For extra brightness, stir in the zest of one lemon with the dry ingredients.
• Use frozen blueberries: If using frozen, do not thaw to prevent bleeding color into the dough.
• Make it glazed: Drizzle cooled scones with a simple lemon or vanilla glaze.
• Swap the fruit: Try raspberries, blackberries, or chopped strawberries for a different flavor.
• Add nuts: Mix in chopped almonds or pecans for added crunch.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–8 minutes or briefly in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to warm them up before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Bake fresh the next morning for warm scones.

Can I freeze the scones?

Absolutely. Freeze unbaked scones on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make a substitute by mixing 3/4 cup milk with 2 teaspoons of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before using.

Can I use dried blueberries?

Yes, rehydrate them slightly by soaking in warm water for 10 minutes and patting dry before adding to the dough.

How do I keep my scones from spreading too much?

Use very cold butter and refrigerate the shaped scones for 10–15 minutes before baking.

Should I use parchment paper or grease the baking sheet?

Parchment paper is ideal for even baking and easy cleanup.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but substitute only up to 50% of the all-purpose flour for the best texture.

Are these scones sweet enough without glaze?

Yes, they are lightly sweetened and flavorful on their own, but a glaze adds an extra touch of indulgence.

Can I make mini scones with this recipe?

Yes, cut the dough into smaller rounds and reduce baking time by a few minutes.

What’s the best way to serve these?

Serve warm with clotted cream, butter, or fruit preserves alongside tea or coffee.

Conclusion

Buttery Blueberry Buttermilk Scones are the perfect blend of tender crumb, fruity brightness, and rich flavor. Whether served warm out of the oven or enjoyed as a delightful treat with tea, these scones are a satisfying, easy-to-make recipe that belongs in every home baker’s collection. Try them once, and they’re sure to become a regular part of your baking routine.

Print