If you’ve ever had afternoon tea in either the U.S. or the UK, chances are you’ve been served a scone alongside your tea. It may have been paired with fruity jam and clotted cream, or perhaps with jam and Double Devon cream.
One of the best things about scones is their versatility. They can be enjoyed plain, sweet, or savory. Add jam, lemon curd, fresh fruit, or even mix in ingredients like raisins, cheese, or herbs. With so many options, it’s hard to stop at just one!
According to tradition, scones are believed to have originated in Scotland in the 1500s, possibly connected to the Stone of Destiny where Scottish kings were crowned. Their place in afternoon tea, however, came later thanks to Anna, Duchess of Bedford (1788–1861). Feeling hungry between meals, she requested tea and a light snack—scones among them—and soon began inviting friends to join her. This simple habit eventually evolved into the afternoon tea tradition we know today.
Kevin Hickey, owner of The English Tea Store, describes scones as a “delivery system” for jam and cream:
“They’re meant to be just slightly savory and not too sweet, so they can balance rich fruit jams and clotted cream.”
Historically, afternoon tea also served a practical purpose, bridging the gap between a large breakfast and a later evening meal—helping to maintain energy throughout the day.
As I became more interested in tea, I started baking scones at home. My first attempt was a cheese and onion recipe—it took a long time, but the results were worth it! After experimenting with several recipes, I finally found one that was simple and reliable. My dad’s enthusiasm (he couldn’t stop eating them!) confirmed I had a winner.
I especially enjoy adding raisins to my scones for a bit of sweetness.
The supermarket where I work also sells freshly baked scones, and they sell out quickly—which is always a good sign! If you prefer convenience, you can also use scone mixes, whether you’re in the mood for plain or something more flavorful like apple cinnamon.
Scones can be shaped in different ways—triangles or the classic round. If you don’t have a cutter, even a glass works perfectly well. No matter the shape, a scone is still a scone.
Pair it with a cup of tea, add jam and cream, and you’ve got the perfect tea-time treat.
~CD
Editor’s note: If you’d like a great recipe, check out our cheese scone recipe.
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