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There's nothing quite like the comfort of a freshly baked scone . These light, buttery, and perfectly crumbly delights have long been a favourite for afternoon tea. Whether you enjoy them plain, smothered in jam and clotted cream, or jazzed up with fruits, spices, or cheese, they're a simple yet scrumptious treat. Plus, they're quick to whip up, requiring just basic pantry staples like flour, butter, milk, sugar, and eggs. While you can easily pick up a pack from the shop, there's no beating the taste of homemade scones fresh out of the oven , paired with a piping hot cuppa. For top-notch results, Rebecca McLeod, a classically trained chef and pastry whizz behind food blog Bec's Table, has shared some crucial tips. One key piece of advice she offers is a secret ingredient that will take your scones to new heights, reports the Express . She suggests adding soda water or lemonade to your mix for an "extra rise". The chef explains that these fizzy drinks "add lightness" to your scones, resulting in a fluffier texture. Rebecca points out that scones made with soda water will be "slightly less sweet", making them perfect for savoury toppings, or as a quick bread substitute with soups. For those with a sweet tooth, simply add sugar or swap the soda water for lemonade. Just make sure the lemonade is still fizzy to ensure your scones rise evenly. If your scones aren't reaching the desired height, it's likely that your dough is too thin. To achieve a taller scone, ensure your dough is at least 3cm thick before cutting. Pop them on a baking tray with sides so they're touching each other, which helps them rise upwards rather than spreading outwards. Another tip is to use the right amount of baking powder, which gives your scones "the perfect lift". It's also crucial not to overwork the mixture when making scones, as this develops gluten, which can "make your scones tough". Rebecca advised: "Keep your mixing light. Whether you're using your hands, a bowl scraper, or even a food processor, mix the ingredients just until they come together. This is key to achieving that tender, fluffy scone recipe result."
