Vegetarian Scones Recipe Easy, Fluffy, and Delicious

There’s nothing quite like the warm, crumbly goodness of freshly baked scones to brighten your morning or accompany an afternoon tea. If you’re looking to enjoy this classic British treat without any meat or animal products, this vegetarian scones recipe is just what you need.

Bursting with flavor and boasting a tender, flaky texture, these scones are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and rewarding.

We’ve crafted these scones to be versatile—ideal plain, with your favorite jam, or stuffed with savory fillings like cheese and herbs. Plus, they come together with simple pantry staples and a few vegetarian-friendly ingredients, making them a wholesome and delicious choice.

So, preheat your oven and prepare to enjoy a batch of scones that will quickly become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian scones recipe combines simplicity with incredible taste. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe collection:

• Quick and easy: From start to finish, you’ll have warm scones in under an hour.
• Flaky, tender texture: Perfectly light on the inside with a golden crust.
• Versatile flavors: Enjoy plain, sweet, or savory by mixing in your favorite ingredients.
• Vegetarian-friendly: No meat or animal fat, ideal for vegetarians and adaptable for vegans.
• Great for any time: Breakfast, brunch, snack, or tea-time delight.

Plus, scones are wonderfully customizable. You can add fresh herbs, cheese, or dried fruits to suit your taste buds.

This recipe is also a fantastic base if you want to experiment with other vegetable-based dishes—consider pairing your scones with some vegetarian Swiss chard recipes for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar (optional for slightly sweet scones)
• 1/2 cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed (use a vegetarian butter or margarine)
• 3/4 cup (180ml) milk (dairy or plant-based such as almond or oat milk)
• 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option: 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for sweet scones)
• Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup grated vegetarian cheese, 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (such as chives or rosemary), or 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter or two forks
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Biscuit cutter or a round cookie cutter (about 2.5 inches in diameter)
• Cooling rack
• Small bowl for egg wash (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Combine dry ingredients. In your large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using).
3. Cut in the butter. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or two forks, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized bits.
4. Mix wet ingredients. In a separate small bowl, whisk the milk, egg, and vanilla extract (if using). For a vegan option, prepare the flax egg in advance and use plant-based milk.
5. Combine wet and dry. Pour the wet ingredients into the flour mixture. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the scones light and fluffy.
6. Add any optional fillings. Fold in grated vegetarian cheese, chopped herbs, or dried fruit if you like, mixing just enough to distribute evenly.
7. Shape the dough. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it 2-3 times to bring it together. Pat or roll the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick.
8. Cut into scones. Use your biscuit cutter to cut out rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Gather any scraps, reshape, and cut more scones until all dough is used.
9. Optional egg wash. For a golden, glossy top, whisk a little milk or egg and brush it lightly over each scone.
10. Bake. Place the tray in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the scones are risen and golden brown on top.
11. Cool and serve. Transfer scones to a cooling rack and let them cool slightly before serving warm with butter, jam, or your favorite spread.

Tips & Variations

“For the flakiest scones, keep your butter cold and handle the dough gently. Overworking will make them tough!”

• Make it vegan: Substitute butter with vegan margarine and use a flax or chia egg instead of a chicken egg.
• Sweet scones: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or citrus zest to enhance flavor. Dried fruits like currants or chopped dates are fantastic additions.
• Savory scones: Mix in vegetarian cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or fresh herbs like thyme and chives.
• Storage: Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
• Serving with extras: Try pairing your scones with a homemade spread like our Garden Vegetable Cream Cheese Recipe for Fresh Spreads.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used.

Serving Suggestions

Vegetarian scones are incredibly versatile. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy them:

• Classic with jam and cream: Serve warm with strawberry or raspberry jam and a dollop of clotted cream or whipped cream.
• Breakfast sandwich: Slice open and fill with scrambled eggs, spinach, and cheese for a hearty vegetarian start.
• Tea-time treat: Pair with a pot of your favorite tea and light cucumber sandwiches for a traditional British afternoon tea.
• Savory platter: Accompany with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Try pairing with recipes from our Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals for a complete, vibrant meal.
• On-the-go snack: Scones are perfect for a quick bite when you’re out and about or need a satisfying lunchbox addition.

Conclusion

This vegetarian scones recipe is a delicious and accessible way to enjoy a timeless baked good without meat. The combination of simple ingredients and straightforward preparation creates a tender, flaky scone that can be adapted for sweet or savory tastes.

Whether you’re baking for a family brunch, a cozy tea party, or just a treat to brighten your day, these scones will not disappoint.

With tips for vegan substitutions and ideas for flavor variations, you can make this recipe your own and explore new tastes. Don’t forget to try pairing your scones with some of our other delightful dishes, such as the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Happy baking!

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