Matcha scones bring a delightful twist to a classic treat by infusing earthy green tea flavor into tender, flaky pastry. Originating from Japan’s rich tea culture, matcha powder adds vibrant color and a subtle, slightly sweet bitterness that perfectly balances the buttery richness of traditional scones.
We love how this recipe combines the comforting texture of scones with the unique taste of matcha, making it an ideal choice for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a cozy snack. Whether you’re a matcha enthusiast or just looking to try something new, these scones are simple to make and sure to impress. Let’s dive into crafting these flavorful bites that blend tradition with a modern touch.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Matcha Scone, we carefully select ingredients that highlight the vibrant flavor and color of matcha while maintaining the classic scone texture. Here is everything we need for this delicious treat.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, sifted for lightness
- 2 tablespoons matcha powder, high-quality, finely ground for vivid green color and earthy taste
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar to balance the slight bitterness of matcha
- 1 tablespoon baking powder, ensures our scones rise beautifully
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt enhances the overall flavor
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes for flaky texture
- 2/3 cup (160ml) whole milk or heavy cream for richness
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten to bind ingredients perfectly
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract adds a subtle sweetness and depth
Optional Add-Ins
We love customizing our matcha scones with a few add-ins for texture and flavor contrast:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| White chocolate chips | 1/3 cup (60g) | Sweetness and creamy pockets |
| Toasted almonds | 1/4 cup (30g), chopped | Crunch and nutty flavor |
| Dried cranberries | 1/4 cup (40g) | Tartness balancing earthiness of matcha |
Equipment Needed
To make our delicious matcha scones perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool plays a specific role in ensuring the texture, shape, and flavor come together beautifully.
Mixing Bowls
We need at least two sturdy Mixing Bowls—one for the dry ingredients and one for the wet. Using separate bowls keeps the mixing process clean and helps us combine ingredients evenly.
- Choose medium to large-sized bowls made of glass, stainless steel, or BPA-free plastic.
- Ensure the bowls are stable and easy to handle during mixing.
Baking Sheet
A flat, rimmed Baking Sheet is vital for baking our matcha scones evenly and achieving a golden crust.
- Use a heavy-duty baking sheet approximately 12×17 inches for even heat distribution.
- Line it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Preheating the baking sheet slightly before placing the scones helps form a crisp bottom crust.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precision is key for perfect scones. Use accurate measuring tools for our ingredients to maintain the ideal balance between dry and wet components.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Dry measuring cups | Flour, sugar, matcha powder |
| Liquid measuring cup | Milk, cream, vanilla extract |
| Measuring spoons | Baking powder, salt, matcha |
- Level off dry ingredients for accuracy.
- Use clear cups with marked increments for liquids.
Pastry Cutter or Fork
To achieve the classic flaky texture of scones, cutting cold butter into the flour is crucial.
- Use a pastry cutter to quickly blend butter into the dry ingredients for small pea-sized pieces.
- If unavailable, a fork or two knives can work by pressing and cutting the butter into the mixture.
- Keep butter cold to prevent melting, which affects the crumb structure.
Prep Work
Before we begin mixing, precise prep work sets the stage for creating perfect matcha scones with the ideal texture and flavor.
Preheating the Oven
We always start by preheating our oven to 400°F (204°C). This temperature ensures a quick rise, creating scones that are tender inside with a beautifully golden crust. Avoid skipping or delaying this step because placing dough in a cold oven can lead to dense, undercooked scones.
Preparing the Baking Sheet
Next, we prepare a flat, rimmed baking sheet. To achieve a crisp bottom and even baking:
- Line the sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- For extra crispness, we sometimes preheat the baking sheet in the oven for 5 minutes before placing the scones on it.
- Make sure the sheet is large enough to space scones at least 2 inches apart, allowing hot air to circulate freely.
Measuring Ingredients
Accurate measuring is critical for balancing the earthy matcha flavor with buttery richness and the perfect crumb.
| Ingredient | Measurement Tool | Important Tip |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Measuring cup | Spoon into the cup and level with a knife |
| Matcha powder | Measuring teaspoon | Use a leveled teaspoon to ensure color and flavor |
| Granulated sugar | Measuring tablespoon | Level off for consistent sweetness |
| Baking powder | Measuring teaspoon | Avoid packing to maintain rise |
| Unsalted butter | Kitchen scale or sticks | Keep cold and cut into small pieces |
| Whole milk or cream | Measuring cup | Use liquid measuring cup for accuracy |
| Egg | Whole, large | Beat lightly before measuring if called for |
| Vanilla extract | Measuring teaspoon | Use a minimum for subtle aromatic notes |
We recommend weighing ingredients when possible, especially flour and butter, to achieve the most consistent results in texture and flavor.
This careful Prep Work ensures our matcha scones bake evenly, develop vibrant color, and deliver a balanced taste every time.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create perfectly tender and vibrant matcha scones with a flavorful balance and flaky texture.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients until well combined:
- All-purpose flour
- Matcha powder
- Granulated sugar
- Baking powder
- Kosher salt
- Use a fine whisk or a sifter to ensure the matcha powder is evenly distributed, avoiding clumps for a consistent green color and flavor.
Incorporating the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, gently beat the wet ingredients until smooth. These include:
- Cold unsalted butter (cut into small cubes) — we will cut this into the dry mix shortly
- Whole milk or heavy cream
- Large egg
- Vanilla extract
- Pour the wet mixture gradually into the dry ingredients while stirring lightly with a spatula or wooden spoon.
Adding Mix-Ins
- Now is the time to add optional mix-ins to enhance texture and flavor:
- White chocolate chips for creamy sweetness
- Toasted almonds for crunch
- Dried cranberries for tart contrast
- Fold these additions gently into the dough to distribute evenly without overmixing.
Forming the Dough
- Using a pastry cutter or two knives, cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.
- Add the wet ingredients and mix carefully until the dough just comes together — avoid overworking to maintain flakiness.
- The dough should be slightly sticky but firm enough to handle.
Shaping the Scones
- Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it.
- Pat the dough into a circle about 8 inches wide and 1 inch thick.
- Using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, cut the circle into 8 equal wedges.
- Transfer the wedges to the prepared baking sheet, leaving at least 2 inches between each scone.
- Brush the tops lightly with milk or cream for a golden, glossy finish before baking.
| Step | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Dry Ingredients | Whisk well, sift matcha for even distribution |
| Wet Ingredients | Beat gently, combine gradually |
| Butter Cutting | Cut into flour till pea-size pieces remain |
| Dough Texture | Slightly sticky, avoid overmixing |
| Shaping | 8-inch circle, 1-inch thick, cut into 8 wedges |
Directions for Baking
To achieve the perfect matcha scone with vibrant color and ideal texture, precise baking steps are crucial. Follow these directions carefully for consistent results.
Oven Temperature
Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). This high temperature helps the scones rise quickly and develop a golden crust while preserving the delicate flavor of the matcha. Using a fully preheated oven ensures even baking and the signature flakiness.
| Step | Temperature |
|---|---|
| Oven Preheating | 400°F (205°C) |
Baking Time
Place the scone wedges on a prepared baking sheet spaced evenly for proper air circulation. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the tops turn lightly golden and the scones rise beautifully. Avoid overbaking to keep them tender inside.
| Step | Baking Duration |
|---|---|
| Bake Time | 15 to 18 minutes |
Checking for Doneness
Check doneness by gently tapping the scone tops. They should sound hollow and feel firm but not hard. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Watch for the edges to be lightly golden while the center remains soft but fully cooked for that signature tender crumb.
Use this process to ensure every batch of our matcha scones bakes to perfection with a crisp exterior and a moist, fluffy interior that highlights the earthy matcha taste.
Cooling and Serving
Allowing our matcha scones to cool properly is essential for preserving their texture and flavor. Let’s explore the best ways to cool, serve, and store these vibrant treats.
Cooling Tips
- Transfer the scones to a wire cooling rack immediately after removing them from the oven. This step prevents sogginess by allowing air to circulate around the scones.
- Cool the scones for at least 20 minutes before slicing or serving. Cooling helps the crumb set, ensuring a tender, flaky bite.
- Avoid stacking scones while warm, as this traps steam and softens their crisp exterior.
Serving Suggestions
Our matcha scone recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Try these ideas to enhance the experience:
| Serving Idea | Description |
|---|---|
| Clotted Cream & Jam | Classic richness with a sweet berry contrast |
| Honey or Maple Syrup | Adds a natural sweetness that complements the earthy matcha |
| Whipped Cream | Light and fluffy topping that enhances texture and flavor |
| Fresh Berries | Provides a bright, tart contrast and fresh presentation |
| Matcha Latte or Green Tea | Reinforces the matcha flavor and offers a harmonious pairing |
For a luxurious touch, lightly dust the scones with powdered sugar or drizzle with white chocolate glaze.
Storage Tips
To maintain freshness and texture, follow these storage guidelines:
| Method | Instructions | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Cool completely. Store in an airtight container. | Up to 2 days |
| Refrigeration | Wrap scones individually with plastic wrap, then seal in a container. | Up to 5 days |
| Freezing | Place scones in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven for 5-7 minutes for best results. | Up to 3 months |
Pro Tip: Reheating scones briefly in a 325°F oven restores their crispness without drying them out.
With these cooling, serving, and storage tips, our matcha scones will remain delightful whether enjoyed fresh or saved for later.
Conclusion
Matcha scones bring a delightful twist to a classic treat that’s perfect for any time of day. With their unique flavor and beautiful green hue, they’re sure to impress both matcha enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
By following the right techniques and using quality ingredients, we can create scones that are flaky, tender, and bursting with that signature earthy matcha taste. Whether enjoyed fresh or reheated, these scones make a wonderful addition to our baking repertoire and a delicious way to brighten up any snack or tea time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are matcha scones?
Matcha scones are a twist on traditional scones, made with matcha powder that gives them a unique earthy flavor and a vibrant green color. They combine the buttery richness of classic scones with the slightly sweet bitterness of matcha.
What ingredients do I need to make matcha scones?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, matcha powder, sugar, baking powder, kosher salt, unsalted butter, whole milk or heavy cream, a large egg, and vanilla extract. Optional add-ins include white chocolate chips, toasted almonds, or dried cranberries.
What equipment is necessary for baking matcha scones?
You need two mixing bowls (one for dry and one for wet ingredients), a flat rimmed baking sheet, measuring cups and spoons, and a pastry cutter or fork to blend cold butter into the flour.
How do I mix the ingredients properly for matcha scones?
Mix dry ingredients first to distribute the matcha evenly. Beat wet ingredients gently, then gradually mix them into the dry. Add optional mix-ins before combining until just mixed to keep the dough flaky.
What is the best baking temperature and time for matcha scones?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Bake the scones spaced evenly on the baking sheet for 15 to 18 minutes until they are lightly golden and sound hollow when tapped.
How do I know when matcha scones are fully baked?
They should feel firm, sound hollow when tapped, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean, indicating they are cooked through.
How should I cool matcha scones after baking?
Transfer scones immediately to a wire cooling rack and let them cool for at least 20 minutes to maintain texture and flavor before serving.
What are some serving suggestions for matcha scones?
Serve them with clotted cream, honey, whipped cream, fresh berries, or pair with a matcha latte for a perfect complement.
How should I store leftover matcha scones?
Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days, refrigerate for up to five days, or freeze for up to three months.
Can I reheat matcha scones without losing their texture?
Yes, reheat scones briefly in a preheated oven or toaster oven to restore their crisp exterior and warm, fluffy interior.