Best Vegan Lemon Scones Recipe for Fresh, Zesty Treats

Updated On: October 6, 2025

If you’re craving a bright and zesty treat that’s both fluffy and crumbly, these best vegan lemon scones are exactly what you need. Perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a light snack, these scones bring together the delicate tang of fresh lemon with the richness of plant-based ingredients.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply looking to enjoy a dairy-free baked good, this recipe is straightforward and packed with flavor. With simple pantry staples and just a few easy steps, you’ll whip up a batch of these tender scones that boast a golden crust and a soft, moist interior.

Not only do these vegan lemon scones taste incredible, but they’re also a healthier alternative to traditional scones, free from eggs and dairy. The subtle hint of lemon zest and juice cuts through the sweetness, making each bite refreshing and delightful.

So grab your apron, and let’s dive into a recipe that will soon become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan lemon scone recipe stands out for its simplicity and delicious balance of flavors. You’ll love:

  • Quick preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
  • Perfect texture: Fluffy and tender inside with a slightly crisp exterior.
  • Bright citrus flavor: Fresh lemon zest and juice add a natural zing.
  • Dairy and egg-free: Perfectly suitable for vegans and those with allergies.
  • Versatile: Easy to customize with add-ins like blueberries or poppy seeds.

It’s a foolproof recipe that even beginner bakers can master. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

For more vegan baking inspiration, try our Leche De Pantera Recipe or Julie Marie Eats Recipes.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup vegan butter, cold and cubed
  • 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest, finely grated
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (large and medium)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Pastry cutter or fork
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Cooling rack
  • Sharp knife or biscuit cutter

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
  3. Add the cold vegan butter cubes to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or fork, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine the plant-based milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix well to incorporate.
  5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing — dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
  6. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a 7-inch circle about 1 inch thick.
  7. Using a sharp knife or biscuit cutter, cut the dough into 8 wedges. Carefully transfer each wedge to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
  8. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Remove from the oven and let the scones cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before serving. This helps them set and finish cooking inside.

Tips & Variations

For the best texture, make sure your vegan butter is cold before mixing it in. This helps create that flaky, tender crumb scones are known for.

  • Add-ins: Toss in 1/2 cup fresh blueberries, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts to the dough for extra flavor and texture.
  • Glaze option: Mix powdered sugar with a splash of lemon juice to drizzle over cooled scones for a sweet, tangy finish.
  • Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, adjusting liquid as needed.
  • Storage: Store leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.
  • Serving warm: Warm scones briefly in the oven or microwave before serving for the best experience.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Scone (1/8 recipe)
Calories 180 kcal
Fat 7 g
Saturated Fat 2 g
Carbohydrates 27 g
Sugar 6 g
Fiber 1 g
Protein 2 g
Sodium 200 mg

Serving Suggestions

These vegan lemon scones are incredibly versatile and can be served in many delicious ways:

  • Enjoy them plain alongside a cup of herbal tea or your favorite coffee.
  • Spread with vegan butter or fruit preserves like raspberry or strawberry jam.
  • Pair with a dollop of coconut whipped cream and fresh berries for a decadent treat.
  • Use as a base for a vegan breakfast sandwich with scrambled tofu and fresh greens.

For more delightful vegan baking, explore our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes (vegan version) or try the Magic Dough Recipe for a simple dough that can be transformed into multiple treats.

Conclusion

These vegan lemon scones are a true gem in the world of plant-based baking. They deliver a perfect combination of lightness and flavor that will brighten any morning or afternoon snack.

The fresh lemon zest and juice provide a refreshing citrus note that complements the tender crumb beautifully. Best of all, the recipe is simple enough to make any day of the week, using accessible ingredients you likely have on hand.

Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, these scones are guaranteed to impress family and friends. Don’t forget to experiment with add-ins or glazes to make the recipe your own.

For more baking inspiration, check out our Marzipan Challah Recipe for a sweet bread treat or the Lump Of Coal Recipe for a fun, festive snack. Happy baking!

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Lemon Scones

Description: Light and fluffy vegan lemon scones with a zesty citrus flavor. Perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 8 scones

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup vegan butter, cold and cubed
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Cut in the cold vegan butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine almond milk and apple cider vinegar; let sit for 5 minutes.
  5. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla to the wet mixture.
  6. Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir until just combined.
  7. Turn dough onto a floured surface and pat into an 8-inch circle.
  8. Cut dough into 8 wedges and place on a baking sheet.
  9. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
  10. Cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 210 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 10g | Carbs: 28g

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Marta K

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