<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.errenskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Raisin-Scones-4-683x1024.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Three golden-brown Raisin Scones are stacked and shown up close, highlighting their fluffy texture and studded raisins. Text overlay reads “Homemade Raisin Scones” and “Erren’s Kitchen. - 1”>

Golden homemade raisin scones stacked to showcase their soft texture and juicy raisins inside, with “Raisin Scones” and the Erren’s Kitchen website displayed. - 2 A round batch of Raisin Scones cut into wedges sits on a slate board. Below are three close-up photos of the scones and a pink banner with the text “Raisin Scones” and “Erren’s Kitchen.”. - 3

<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.errenskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Raisin-Scones-3-683x1024.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Two golden brown Raisin Scones, packed with plump raisins, are displayed on a parchment-lined tray. The image features the Erren’s Kitchen logo and website with the text “Homemade Raisin Scones. - 4”>

Three thick slices of raisin bread are stacked on top of each other against a white background, with scattered raisins in the foreground—perfect for fans of classic raisin scones. - 5 Eight golden-brown Raisin Scones, perfectly triangular, are arranged in a circle on a dark slate surface, with a few loose raisins scattered nearby. - 6 A close-up of a slice of golden-brown raisin scone, studded with plump raisins, rests on crumpled parchment paper. More raisin scones and scattered raisins are visible in the background. - 7

<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.errenskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Raisin-Scones-3-683x1024.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Two golden brown Raisin Scones, packed with plump raisins, are displayed on a parchment-lined tray. The image features the Erren’s Kitchen logo and website with the text “Homemade Raisin Scones. - 8”>

A round loaf of golden-brown Raisin Scones, sliced into eight wedges, is displayed on a white plate. Bowls of raisins and a cup are visible in the background. - 9

These soft, golden raisin scones are perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea—simple to make, lightly sweet, and baked to fluffy perfection.

in this article:

  • Know Before You Scroll
  • Perfect British Scones
  • Ingredient Notes
  • Important Tip for International Bakers
  • Step By Step Instructions
  • More Scones
  • Raisin Scones
  • Erren’s Top Tips
  • Variations & Add-Ins
  • Storage & Freezing Instructions
  • FAQs

Know Before You Scroll

Raisin Scones - 10

What You’ll Need

All-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, butter, cream or milk, eggs, raisins, extra cream or milk for brushing.

Flavor Profile

Lightly sweet, buttery, and tender with chewy pops of raisins in every bite—classic cozy bakery vibes.

Difficulty Level

Beginner-friendly. A little mixing, a quick knead, and into the oven they go.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls, whisk, spatula, measuring cups and spoons, parchment paper, rolling pin, baking sheet, knife.

Top Tip

Don’t overwork the dough—just knead until it’s smooth. Over-kneading makes tough scones.

Make Ahead

Mix and shape the dough, then chill it overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for warm scones on demand.

Ingredient Swaps

No raisins? Try dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even chocolate chips.

A close-up of a slice of golden-brown raisin scone, studded with plump raisins, rests on crumpled parchment paper. More raisin scones and scattered raisins are visible in the background. - 11

Perfect British Scones

I lived in England for more than 15 years, and during that time I learned how to make authentic British scones in a class at a local cooking school. When I first posted these raisin scones back in 2016, they quickly became a reader favorite—soft, buttery, and perfectly studded with sweet raisins—and they’ve since been shared nearly 10,000 times on social media. The recipe itself hasn’t changed one bit, because it’s already the classic scone I keep coming back to. What has changed is the post itself. The original photos weren’t bright enough to do them justice, and the instructions didn’t include all the little tips I’ve learned along the way. So I’ve refreshed this post with bright new photos, a step-by-step video, and more helpful content to make sure every batch you bake turns out bakery-perfect.

Eight golden-brown Raisin Scones, perfectly triangular, are arranged in a circle on a dark slate surface, with a few loose raisins scattered nearby. - 12

Ingredient Notes

Baking ingredients on a counter: a flour canister, a glass pitcher of milk, a plate of butter, a salt shaker, sugar, raisins, and a blue egg carton with brown eggs—everything you need to make delicious raisin scones. - 13

Dry Ingredients

Best Choice

Stick with unbleached all-purpose for structure, table salt for even seasoning, white granulated sugar for balanced sweetness, and baking powder that’s less than 6 months old for the best rise.

Substitutions

In the UK, use plain flour and caster sugar. Fine sea salt works in place of table salt. If you only have self-rising flour, you can omit the salt and baking powder.

Butter

Best Choice

Unsalted butter, very cold and cut into cubes so it blends into the flour in crumbly bits.

Substitutions

Salted butter (reduce the added salt slightly). Plant-based butter works for a dairy-free option.

Wet Ingredients

Best Choice

Large eggs at room temperature for easy mixing, Half-and-half or heavy cream makes the richest, most tender scones.

Substitutions

Double cream in the UK, Whole milk also works fine but makes them a little less rich. Non-dairy milk can be used, though texture may differ.

Raisins

Best Choice

Regular seedless raisins, sultanas, or golden raisins for a brighter flavor twist.

Substitutions

Dried cranberries, chopped dates, or chocolate chips.

Where to Find

Baking aisle or snack aisle, sometimes near trail mix.

Important Tip for International Bakers

One thing I learned from living in both the US and the UK is that ingredients aren’t the same everywhere—especially butter and flour. The texture, fat content, and even protein levels can be different, which means a recipe written for one country doesn’t always turn out the same in another. That’s why if you’re outside the US or Canada, I recommend using the metric version of this recipe (click the “metric” button above the ingredient list). It’s not just a simple conversion—it’s a version I developed while living in the UK, tested with European ingredients, so your scones will bake up just right.

You can find the full, printable recipe at the top of this post , but you can read the detailed instructions with photos for each step below.

Step By Step Instructions

1

Preheat and Mix the Dry Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F/190°C. In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This gives us a light, even base for the scones.

A metal sifter containing flour rests over a clear glass bowl, with some flour already sifted into the bowl below—perfectly prepped for baking delicious Raisin Scones, all set against a white background. - 14

2

Work in the Butter

Add cold, cubed butter to the bowl. Toss to coat, then rub it into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture looks like big, buttery crumbs. This is what makes the scones flaky.

A clear glass bowl filled with an off-white powder, likely flour for Raisin Scones, sits on a white surface. - 15

3

Add the Raisins

Stir in the raisins so they’re evenly distributed—every bite should get a little pop of sweetness.

A glass bowl filled with flour and chocolate chips, perfect for making Raisin Scones, viewed from above on a white background. - 16

4

Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream and eggs until smooth and well blended.

A white bowl filled with a light yellow, frothy liquid, likely beaten eggs or an egg mixture for raisin scones, viewed from above on a white background. - 17

5

Bring the Dough Together

Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and gently stir until it just comes together. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour. Too dry? Add a splash more cream.

A glass bowl containing dough for raisin scones, mixed with plump raisins, resting on a white surface. - 18

6

Knead & Shape

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, knead about 25 to 30 times until it’s smooth and soft—don’t overdo it!

Place the dough on lightly floured parchment paper. Press it into a disk, then roll it into a 9-inch circle about 1 inch thick.

Side-by-side images of Raisin Scones dough: on the left, a round ball with raisins on a floured surface; on the right, the same dough flattened into a disc on parchment paper, ready for baking. - 19

7

Cut & Brush

Now I cut the round into eight equal wedges, kind of like slicing a pizza. A quick brush of milk or cream on top gives these scones that gorgeous golden finish.

A round disk of unbaked Raisin Scones dough is cut into eight wedges on parchment paper. A blue pastry brush gently glazes the scone wedges, readying them for baking. - 20

8

Bake

And finally, bake them for 20 to 25 minutes, until they’re puffed and beautifully golden brown.

A round, golden-brown Raisin Scones loaf is cut into eight triangular slices, arranged in a circle on baking parchment atop a dark slate board. A dish of butter and scattered raisins rest nearby on a white marble surface. - 21

9

Serve & Enjoy

That’s it — warm, buttery, raisin scones fresh from the oven. Perfect with a little butter or jam and a hot cup of tea.

Two thick, golden-brown raisin scones are stacked on a white surface. The top scone has a bite taken out, revealing a soft, fluffy interior packed with juicy raisins. - 22

More Scones

  • Iced Raspberry Scones
  • How to Make Scones
  • Lemon Blueberry Scones
A round loaf of golden-brown Raisin Scones, sliced into eight wedges, is displayed on a white plate. Bowls of raisins and a cup are visible in the background. - 23

Ingredients

  • ▢ 3 cups all-purpose flour ( See notes if outside the US )
  • ▢ ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ▢ 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ▢ ½ teaspoon salt
  • ▢ 8 tablespoons butter (cut into small cubes)
  • ▢ 1 cup half and half (whipping cream or milk, plus 1 to 2 tablespoons extra for brushing)
  • ▢ 2 eggs
  • ▢ 1 cup raisins

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  • Sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
  • Add the cubed butter to the flour mixture. Toss to coat, then rub the butter between your palms or fingertips until the mixture looks like large crumbs. Stir in the raisins.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream (or milk) and eggs.
  • Pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture. Stir gently to bring the dough together. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour. If it feels too dry, add a splash more cream.
  • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, knead 25–30 times until the dough is smooth.
  • Place a sheet of parchment paper (cut to fit your baking sheet) on your work surface and lightly flour it. Transfer the dough onto the paper and press it into a disk. Using a floured rolling pin, roll it into a 9-inch round, about 1 inch thick.
  • Transfer the parchment and dough to a baking sheet. Cut the dough into 8 equal wedges.
  • Brush the tops lightly with milk or cream.
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Tips

Erren’s Top Tips

  • Keep the butter cold: Cold butter is the secret to flaky scones. I like to cube mine, pop it in the freezer for 10 minutes, and then mix it in.
  • Don’t overwork the dough: Kneading too much makes tough scones. Just bring it together until smooth, and then stop.
  • Flour your tools: Lightly flouring your hands, rolling pin, and knife helps keep the dough from sticking.
  • Use parchment paper: Rolling and shaping the dough right on the parchment makes it easy to transfer to the baking sheet.
  • Brush for shine: A quick swipe of milk or cream gives that bakery-style golden finish.
  • Check for doneness: The tops should be golden and the bottoms just lightly browned. If you’re unsure, tap the bottom — it should sound hollow.

Variations & Add-Ins

  • Citrus zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a bright flavor twist.
  • Spiced scones: A teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice mixed into the dry ingredients brings cozy fall vibes.
  • Nutty crunch: Stir in half a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans with the raisins.
  • Glazed finish: Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze once they’ve cooled.
  • Berry swap: Try dried cranberries, cherries, or chopped apricots instead of raisins.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

  • Room temperature: Store cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay soft if you wrap them in a clean kitchen towel inside the container.
  • Refrigerator: For a little longer life, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Warm gently in the microwave before serving.
  • Freezing baked scones: Wrap each cooled scone individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature and reheat in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes.
  • Freezing unbaked dough: You can also freeze the wedges before baking. Place on a tray until solid, then store in a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the bake time.

Nutrition

Three thick slices of raisin bread are stacked on top of each other against a white background, with scattered raisins in the foreground—perfect for fans of classic raisin scones. - 24

Do I need to soak the raisins first?

It’s optional! If you like plumper raisins, soak them in warm water (or even a splash of rum) for 10 minutes, then pat dry before mixing in.

Why are my scones spreading too much?

This usually happens if the butter gets too warm or if the dough is too wet. Make sure your butter is cold, and don’t skip chilling the dough briefly if your kitchen is warm.

How do I get my scones fluffier?

The key is not overmixing. Gently fold everything together and let the oven’s heat do the puffing magic.

A round loaf of golden-brown Raisin Scones, sliced into eight wedges, is displayed on a white plate. Bowls of raisins and a cup are visible in the background. - 25

Raisin Scones

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour See notes if outside the US
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 8 tablespoons butter cut into small cubes
  • 1 cup half and half whipping cream or milk, plus 1 to 2 tablespoons extra for brushing
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup raisins

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  • Sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
  • Add the cubed butter to the flour mixture. Toss to coat, then rub the butter between your palms or fingertips until the mixture looks like large crumbs. Stir in the raisins.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream (or milk) and eggs.
  • Pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture. Stir gently to bring the dough together. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour. If it feels too dry, add a splash more cream.
  • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, knead 25–30 times until the dough is smooth.
  • Place a sheet of parchment paper (cut to fit your baking sheet) on your work surface and lightly flour it. Transfer the dough onto the paper and press it into a disk. Using a floured rolling pin, roll it into a 9-inch round, about 1 inch thick.
  • Transfer the parchment and dough to a baking sheet. Cut the dough into 8 equal wedges.
  • Brush the tops lightly with milk or cream.
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Video

Notes

Erren’s Top Tips

  • Keep the butter cold: Cold butter is the secret to flaky scones. I like to cube mine, pop it in the freezer for 10 minutes, and then mix it in.
  • Don’t overwork the dough: Kneading too much makes tough scones. Just bring it together until smooth, and then stop.
  • Flour your tools: Lightly flouring your hands, rolling pin, and knife helps keep the dough from sticking.
  • Use parchment paper: Rolling and shaping the dough right on the parchment makes it easy to transfer to the baking sheet.
  • Brush for shine: A quick swipe of milk or cream gives that bakery-style golden finish.
  • Check for doneness: The tops should be golden and the bottoms just lightly browned. If you’re unsure, tap the bottom — it should sound hollow.

Variations & Add-Ins

  • Citrus zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a bright flavor twist.
  • Spiced scones: A teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice mixed into the dry ingredients brings cozy fall vibes.
  • Nutty crunch: Stir in half a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans with the raisins.
  • Glazed finish: Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze once they’ve cooled.
  • Berry swap: Try dried cranberries, cherries, or chopped apricots instead of raisins.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

  • Room temperature: Store cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay soft if you wrap them in a clean kitchen towel inside the container.
  • Refrigerator: For a little longer life, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Warm gently in the microwave before serving.
  • Freezing baked scones: Wrap each cooled scone individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature and reheat in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes.
  • Freezing unbaked dough: You can also freeze the wedges before baking. Place on a tray until solid, then store in a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the bake time.

Nutrition

Thank you for visiting Erren’s Kitchen!

<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.errenskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Raisin-Scones-4-683x1024.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Three golden-brown Raisin Scones are stacked and shown up close, highlighting their fluffy texture and studded raisins. Text overlay reads “Homemade Raisin Scones” and “Erren’s Kitchen. - 26”>

Golden homemade raisin scones stacked to showcase their soft texture and juicy raisins inside, with “Raisin Scones” and the Erren’s Kitchen website displayed. - 27 A round batch of Raisin Scones cut into wedges sits on a slate board. Below are three close-up photos of the scones and a pink banner with the text “Raisin Scones” and “Erren’s Kitchen.”. - 28

<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.errenskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Raisin-Scones-3-683x1024.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Two golden brown Raisin Scones, packed with plump raisins, are displayed on a parchment-lined tray. The image features the Erren’s Kitchen logo and website with the text “Homemade Raisin Scones. - 29”>

Three thick slices of raisin bread are stacked on top of each other against a white background, with scattered raisins in the foreground—perfect for fans of classic raisin scones. - 30 Eight golden-brown Raisin Scones, perfectly triangular, are arranged in a circle on a dark slate surface, with a few loose raisins scattered nearby. - 31 A close-up of a slice of golden-brown raisin scone, studded with plump raisins, rests on crumpled parchment paper. More raisin scones and scattered raisins are visible in the background. - 32

<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.errenskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Raisin-Scones-3-683x1024.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Two golden brown Raisin Scones, packed with plump raisins, are displayed on a parchment-lined tray. The image features the Erren’s Kitchen logo and website with the text “Homemade Raisin Scones. - 33”>

A round loaf of golden-brown Raisin Scones, sliced into eight wedges, is displayed on a white plate. Bowls of raisins and a cup are visible in the background. - 34

These soft, golden raisin scones are perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea—simple to make, lightly sweet, and baked to fluffy perfection.

in this article:

  • Know Before You Scroll
  • Perfect British Scones
  • Ingredient Notes
  • Important Tip for International Bakers
  • Step By Step Instructions
  • More Scones
  • Raisin Scones
  • Erren’s Top Tips
  • Variations & Add-Ins
  • Storage & Freezing Instructions
  • FAQs

Know Before You Scroll

Raisin Scones - 35

What You’ll Need

All-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, butter, cream or milk, eggs, raisins, extra cream or milk for brushing.

Flavor Profile

Lightly sweet, buttery, and tender with chewy pops of raisins in every bite—classic cozy bakery vibes.

Difficulty Level

Beginner-friendly. A little mixing, a quick knead, and into the oven they go.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls, whisk, spatula, measuring cups and spoons, parchment paper, rolling pin, baking sheet, knife.

Top Tip

Don’t overwork the dough—just knead until it’s smooth. Over-kneading makes tough scones.

Make Ahead

Mix and shape the dough, then chill it overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for warm scones on demand.

Ingredient Swaps

No raisins? Try dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even chocolate chips.

A close-up of a slice of golden-brown raisin scone, studded with plump raisins, rests on crumpled parchment paper. More raisin scones and scattered raisins are visible in the background. - 36

Perfect British Scones

I lived in England for more than 15 years, and during that time I learned how to make authentic British scones in a class at a local cooking school. When I first posted these raisin scones back in 2016, they quickly became a reader favorite—soft, buttery, and perfectly studded with sweet raisins—and they’ve since been shared nearly 10,000 times on social media. The recipe itself hasn’t changed one bit, because it’s already the classic scone I keep coming back to. What has changed is the post itself. The original photos weren’t bright enough to do them justice, and the instructions didn’t include all the little tips I’ve learned along the way. So I’ve refreshed this post with bright new photos, a step-by-step video, and more helpful content to make sure every batch you bake turns out bakery-perfect.

Eight golden-brown Raisin Scones, perfectly triangular, are arranged in a circle on a dark slate surface, with a few loose raisins scattered nearby. - 37

Ingredient Notes

Baking ingredients on a counter: a flour canister, a glass pitcher of milk, a plate of butter, a salt shaker, sugar, raisins, and a blue egg carton with brown eggs—everything you need to make delicious raisin scones. - 38

Dry Ingredients

Best Choice

Stick with unbleached all-purpose for structure, table salt for even seasoning, white granulated sugar for balanced sweetness, and baking powder that’s less than 6 months old for the best rise.

Substitutions

In the UK, use plain flour and caster sugar. Fine sea salt works in place of table salt. If you only have self-rising flour, you can omit the salt and baking powder.

Butter

Best Choice

Unsalted butter, very cold and cut into cubes so it blends into the flour in crumbly bits.

Substitutions

Salted butter (reduce the added salt slightly). Plant-based butter works for a dairy-free option.

Wet Ingredients

Best Choice

Large eggs at room temperature for easy mixing, Half-and-half or heavy cream makes the richest, most tender scones.

Substitutions

Double cream in the UK, Whole milk also works fine but makes them a little less rich. Non-dairy milk can be used, though texture may differ.

Raisins

Best Choice

Regular seedless raisins, sultanas, or golden raisins for a brighter flavor twist.

Substitutions

Dried cranberries, chopped dates, or chocolate chips.

Where to Find

Baking aisle or snack aisle, sometimes near trail mix.

Important Tip for International Bakers

One thing I learned from living in both the US and the UK is that ingredients aren’t the same everywhere—especially butter and flour. The texture, fat content, and even protein levels can be different, which means a recipe written for one country doesn’t always turn out the same in another. That’s why if you’re outside the US or Canada, I recommend using the metric version of this recipe (click the “metric” button above the ingredient list). It’s not just a simple conversion—it’s a version I developed while living in the UK, tested with European ingredients, so your scones will bake up just right.

You can find the full, printable recipe at the top of this post , but you can read the detailed instructions with photos for each step below.

Step By Step Instructions

1

Preheat and Mix the Dry Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F/190°C. In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This gives us a light, even base for the scones.

A metal sifter containing flour rests over a clear glass bowl, with some flour already sifted into the bowl below—perfectly prepped for baking delicious Raisin Scones, all set against a white background. - 39

2

Work in the Butter

Add cold, cubed butter to the bowl. Toss to coat, then rub it into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture looks like big, buttery crumbs. This is what makes the scones flaky.

A clear glass bowl filled with an off-white powder, likely flour for Raisin Scones, sits on a white surface. - 40

3

Add the Raisins

Stir in the raisins so they’re evenly distributed—every bite should get a little pop of sweetness.

A glass bowl filled with flour and chocolate chips, perfect for making Raisin Scones, viewed from above on a white background. - 41

4

Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream and eggs until smooth and well blended.

A white bowl filled with a light yellow, frothy liquid, likely beaten eggs or an egg mixture for raisin scones, viewed from above on a white background. - 42

5

Bring the Dough Together

Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and gently stir until it just comes together. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour. Too dry? Add a splash more cream.

A glass bowl containing dough for raisin scones, mixed with plump raisins, resting on a white surface. - 43

6

Knead & Shape

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, knead about 25 to 30 times until it’s smooth and soft—don’t overdo it!

Place the dough on lightly floured parchment paper. Press it into a disk, then roll it into a 9-inch circle about 1 inch thick.

Side-by-side images of Raisin Scones dough: on the left, a round ball with raisins on a floured surface; on the right, the same dough flattened into a disc on parchment paper, ready for baking. - 44

7

Cut & Brush

Now I cut the round into eight equal wedges, kind of like slicing a pizza. A quick brush of milk or cream on top gives these scones that gorgeous golden finish.

A round disk of unbaked Raisin Scones dough is cut into eight wedges on parchment paper. A blue pastry brush gently glazes the scone wedges, readying them for baking. - 45

8

Bake

And finally, bake them for 20 to 25 minutes, until they’re puffed and beautifully golden brown.

A round, golden-brown Raisin Scones loaf is cut into eight triangular slices, arranged in a circle on baking parchment atop a dark slate board. A dish of butter and scattered raisins rest nearby on a white marble surface. - 46

9

Serve & Enjoy

That’s it — warm, buttery, raisin scones fresh from the oven. Perfect with a little butter or jam and a hot cup of tea.

Two thick, golden-brown raisin scones are stacked on a white surface. The top scone has a bite taken out, revealing a soft, fluffy interior packed with juicy raisins. - 47

More Scones

  • Iced Raspberry Scones
  • How to Make Scones
  • Lemon Blueberry Scones
A round loaf of golden-brown Raisin Scones, sliced into eight wedges, is displayed on a white plate. Bowls of raisins and a cup are visible in the background. - 48

Ingredients

  • ▢ 3 cups all-purpose flour ( See notes if outside the US )
  • ▢ ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ▢ 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ▢ ½ teaspoon salt
  • ▢ 8 tablespoons butter (cut into small cubes)
  • ▢ 1 cup half and half (whipping cream or milk, plus 1 to 2 tablespoons extra for brushing)
  • ▢ 2 eggs
  • ▢ 1 cup raisins

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  • Sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
  • Add the cubed butter to the flour mixture. Toss to coat, then rub the butter between your palms or fingertips until the mixture looks like large crumbs. Stir in the raisins.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream (or milk) and eggs.
  • Pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture. Stir gently to bring the dough together. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour. If it feels too dry, add a splash more cream.
  • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, knead 25–30 times until the dough is smooth.
  • Place a sheet of parchment paper (cut to fit your baking sheet) on your work surface and lightly flour it. Transfer the dough onto the paper and press it into a disk. Using a floured rolling pin, roll it into a 9-inch round, about 1 inch thick.
  • Transfer the parchment and dough to a baking sheet. Cut the dough into 8 equal wedges.
  • Brush the tops lightly with milk or cream.
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Tips

Erren’s Top Tips

  • Keep the butter cold: Cold butter is the secret to flaky scones. I like to cube mine, pop it in the freezer for 10 minutes, and then mix it in.
  • Don’t overwork the dough: Kneading too much makes tough scones. Just bring it together until smooth, and then stop.
  • Flour your tools: Lightly flouring your hands, rolling pin, and knife helps keep the dough from sticking.
  • Use parchment paper: Rolling and shaping the dough right on the parchment makes it easy to transfer to the baking sheet.
  • Brush for shine: A quick swipe of milk or cream gives that bakery-style golden finish.
  • Check for doneness: The tops should be golden and the bottoms just lightly browned. If you’re unsure, tap the bottom — it should sound hollow.

Variations & Add-Ins

  • Citrus zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a bright flavor twist.
  • Spiced scones: A teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice mixed into the dry ingredients brings cozy fall vibes.
  • Nutty crunch: Stir in half a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans with the raisins.
  • Glazed finish: Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze once they’ve cooled.
  • Berry swap: Try dried cranberries, cherries, or chopped apricots instead of raisins.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

  • Room temperature: Store cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay soft if you wrap them in a clean kitchen towel inside the container.
  • Refrigerator: For a little longer life, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Warm gently in the microwave before serving.
  • Freezing baked scones: Wrap each cooled scone individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature and reheat in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes.
  • Freezing unbaked dough: You can also freeze the wedges before baking. Place on a tray until solid, then store in a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the bake time.

Nutrition

Three thick slices of raisin bread are stacked on top of each other against a white background, with scattered raisins in the foreground—perfect for fans of classic raisin scones. - 49

Do I need to soak the raisins first?

It’s optional! If you like plumper raisins, soak them in warm water (or even a splash of rum) for 10 minutes, then pat dry before mixing in.

Why are my scones spreading too much?

This usually happens if the butter gets too warm or if the dough is too wet. Make sure your butter is cold, and don’t skip chilling the dough briefly if your kitchen is warm.

How do I get my scones fluffier?

The key is not overmixing. Gently fold everything together and let the oven’s heat do the puffing magic.

<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.errenskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Raisin-Scones-4-683x1024.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Three golden-brown Raisin Scones are stacked and shown up close, highlighting their fluffy texture and studded raisins. Text overlay reads “Homemade Raisin Scones” and “Erren’s Kitchen. - 50”>

Golden homemade raisin scones stacked to showcase their soft texture and juicy raisins inside, with “Raisin Scones” and the Erren’s Kitchen website displayed. - 51 A round batch of Raisin Scones cut into wedges sits on a slate board. Below are three close-up photos of the scones and a pink banner with the text “Raisin Scones” and “Erren’s Kitchen.”. - 52

<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.errenskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Raisin-Scones-3-683x1024.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Two golden brown Raisin Scones, packed with plump raisins, are displayed on a parchment-lined tray. The image features the Erren’s Kitchen logo and website with the text “Homemade Raisin Scones. - 53”>

Three thick slices of raisin bread are stacked on top of each other against a white background, with scattered raisins in the foreground—perfect for fans of classic raisin scones. - 54 Eight golden-brown Raisin Scones, perfectly triangular, are arranged in a circle on a dark slate surface, with a few loose raisins scattered nearby. - 55 A close-up of a slice of golden-brown raisin scone, studded with plump raisins, rests on crumpled parchment paper. More raisin scones and scattered raisins are visible in the background. - 56

<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.errenskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Raisin-Scones-3-683x1024.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Two golden brown Raisin Scones, packed with plump raisins, are displayed on a parchment-lined tray. The image features the Erren’s Kitchen logo and website with the text “Homemade Raisin Scones. - 57”>

A round loaf of golden-brown Raisin Scones, sliced into eight wedges, is displayed on a white plate. Bowls of raisins and a cup are visible in the background. - 58

These soft, golden raisin scones are perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea—simple to make, lightly sweet, and baked to fluffy perfection.

in this article:

  • Know Before You Scroll
  • Perfect British Scones
  • Ingredient Notes
  • Important Tip for International Bakers
  • Step By Step Instructions
  • More Scones
  • Raisin Scones
  • Erren’s Top Tips
  • Variations & Add-Ins
  • Storage & Freezing Instructions
  • FAQs

Know Before You Scroll

Raisin Scones - 59

What You’ll Need

All-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, butter, cream or milk, eggs, raisins, extra cream or milk for brushing.

Flavor Profile

Lightly sweet, buttery, and tender with chewy pops of raisins in every bite—classic cozy bakery vibes.

Difficulty Level

Beginner-friendly. A little mixing, a quick knead, and into the oven they go.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls, whisk, spatula, measuring cups and spoons, parchment paper, rolling pin, baking sheet, knife.

Top Tip

Don’t overwork the dough—just knead until it’s smooth. Over-kneading makes tough scones.

Make Ahead

Mix and shape the dough, then chill it overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for warm scones on demand.

Ingredient Swaps

No raisins? Try dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even chocolate chips.

A close-up of a slice of golden-brown raisin scone, studded with plump raisins, rests on crumpled parchment paper. More raisin scones and scattered raisins are visible in the background. - 60

Perfect British Scones

I lived in England for more than 15 years, and during that time I learned how to make authentic British scones in a class at a local cooking school. When I first posted these raisin scones back in 2016, they quickly became a reader favorite—soft, buttery, and perfectly studded with sweet raisins—and they’ve since been shared nearly 10,000 times on social media. The recipe itself hasn’t changed one bit, because it’s already the classic scone I keep coming back to. What has changed is the post itself. The original photos weren’t bright enough to do them justice, and the instructions didn’t include all the little tips I’ve learned along the way. So I’ve refreshed this post with bright new photos, a step-by-step video, and more helpful content to make sure every batch you bake turns out bakery-perfect.

Eight golden-brown Raisin Scones, perfectly triangular, are arranged in a circle on a dark slate surface, with a few loose raisins scattered nearby. - 61

Ingredient Notes

Baking ingredients on a counter: a flour canister, a glass pitcher of milk, a plate of butter, a salt shaker, sugar, raisins, and a blue egg carton with brown eggs—everything you need to make delicious raisin scones. - 62

Dry Ingredients

Best Choice

Stick with unbleached all-purpose for structure, table salt for even seasoning, white granulated sugar for balanced sweetness, and baking powder that’s less than 6 months old for the best rise.

Substitutions

In the UK, use plain flour and caster sugar. Fine sea salt works in place of table salt. If you only have self-rising flour, you can omit the salt and baking powder.

Butter

Best Choice

Unsalted butter, very cold and cut into cubes so it blends into the flour in crumbly bits.

Substitutions

Salted butter (reduce the added salt slightly). Plant-based butter works for a dairy-free option.

Wet Ingredients

Best Choice

Large eggs at room temperature for easy mixing, Half-and-half or heavy cream makes the richest, most tender scones.

Substitutions

Double cream in the UK, Whole milk also works fine but makes them a little less rich. Non-dairy milk can be used, though texture may differ.

Raisins

Best Choice

Regular seedless raisins, sultanas, or golden raisins for a brighter flavor twist.

Substitutions

Dried cranberries, chopped dates, or chocolate chips.

Where to Find

Baking aisle or snack aisle, sometimes near trail mix.

Important Tip for International Bakers

One thing I learned from living in both the US and the UK is that ingredients aren’t the same everywhere—especially butter and flour. The texture, fat content, and even protein levels can be different, which means a recipe written for one country doesn’t always turn out the same in another. That’s why if you’re outside the US or Canada, I recommend using the metric version of this recipe (click the “metric” button above the ingredient list). It’s not just a simple conversion—it’s a version I developed while living in the UK, tested with European ingredients, so your scones will bake up just right.

You can find the full, printable recipe at the top of this post , but you can read the detailed instructions with photos for each step below.

Step By Step Instructions

1

Preheat and Mix the Dry Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F/190°C. In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This gives us a light, even base for the scones.

A metal sifter containing flour rests over a clear glass bowl, with some flour already sifted into the bowl below—perfectly prepped for baking delicious Raisin Scones, all set against a white background. - 63

2

Work in the Butter

Add cold, cubed butter to the bowl. Toss to coat, then rub it into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture looks like big, buttery crumbs. This is what makes the scones flaky.

A clear glass bowl filled with an off-white powder, likely flour for Raisin Scones, sits on a white surface. - 64

3

Add the Raisins

Stir in the raisins so they’re evenly distributed—every bite should get a little pop of sweetness.

A glass bowl filled with flour and chocolate chips, perfect for making Raisin Scones, viewed from above on a white background. - 65

4

Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream and eggs until smooth and well blended.

A white bowl filled with a light yellow, frothy liquid, likely beaten eggs or an egg mixture for raisin scones, viewed from above on a white background. - 66

5

Bring the Dough Together

Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and gently stir until it just comes together. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour. Too dry? Add a splash more cream.

A glass bowl containing dough for raisin scones, mixed with plump raisins, resting on a white surface. - 67

6

Knead & Shape

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, knead about 25 to 30 times until it’s smooth and soft—don’t overdo it!

Place the dough on lightly floured parchment paper. Press it into a disk, then roll it into a 9-inch circle about 1 inch thick.

Side-by-side images of Raisin Scones dough: on the left, a round ball with raisins on a floured surface; on the right, the same dough flattened into a disc on parchment paper, ready for baking. - 68

7

Cut & Brush

Now I cut the round into eight equal wedges, kind of like slicing a pizza. A quick brush of milk or cream on top gives these scones that gorgeous golden finish.

A round disk of unbaked Raisin Scones dough is cut into eight wedges on parchment paper. A blue pastry brush gently glazes the scone wedges, readying them for baking. - 69

8

Bake

And finally, bake them for 20 to 25 minutes, until they’re puffed and beautifully golden brown.

A round, golden-brown Raisin Scones loaf is cut into eight triangular slices, arranged in a circle on baking parchment atop a dark slate board. A dish of butter and scattered raisins rest nearby on a white marble surface. - 70

9

Serve & Enjoy

That’s it — warm, buttery, raisin scones fresh from the oven. Perfect with a little butter or jam and a hot cup of tea.

Two thick, golden-brown raisin scones are stacked on a white surface. The top scone has a bite taken out, revealing a soft, fluffy interior packed with juicy raisins. - 71

More Scones

  • Iced Raspberry Scones
  • How to Make Scones
  • Lemon Blueberry Scones
A round loaf of golden-brown Raisin Scones, sliced into eight wedges, is displayed on a white plate. Bowls of raisins and a cup are visible in the background. - 72

Ingredients

  • ▢ 3 cups all-purpose flour ( See notes if outside the US )
  • ▢ ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ▢ 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ▢ ½ teaspoon salt
  • ▢ 8 tablespoons butter (cut into small cubes)
  • ▢ 1 cup half and half (whipping cream or milk, plus 1 to 2 tablespoons extra for brushing)
  • ▢ 2 eggs
  • ▢ 1 cup raisins

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  • Sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
  • Add the cubed butter to the flour mixture. Toss to coat, then rub the butter between your palms or fingertips until the mixture looks like large crumbs. Stir in the raisins.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream (or milk) and eggs.
  • Pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture. Stir gently to bring the dough together. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour. If it feels too dry, add a splash more cream.
  • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, knead 25–30 times until the dough is smooth.
  • Place a sheet of parchment paper (cut to fit your baking sheet) on your work surface and lightly flour it. Transfer the dough onto the paper and press it into a disk. Using a floured rolling pin, roll it into a 9-inch round, about 1 inch thick.
  • Transfer the parchment and dough to a baking sheet. Cut the dough into 8 equal wedges.
  • Brush the tops lightly with milk or cream.
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Tips

Erren’s Top Tips

  • Keep the butter cold: Cold butter is the secret to flaky scones. I like to cube mine, pop it in the freezer for 10 minutes, and then mix it in.
  • Don’t overwork the dough: Kneading too much makes tough scones. Just bring it together until smooth, and then stop.
  • Flour your tools: Lightly flouring your hands, rolling pin, and knife helps keep the dough from sticking.
  • Use parchment paper: Rolling and shaping the dough right on the parchment makes it easy to transfer to the baking sheet.
  • Brush for shine: A quick swipe of milk or cream gives that bakery-style golden finish.
  • Check for doneness: The tops should be golden and the bottoms just lightly browned. If you’re unsure, tap the bottom — it should sound hollow.

Variations & Add-Ins

  • Citrus zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a bright flavor twist.
  • Spiced scones: A teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice mixed into the dry ingredients brings cozy fall vibes.
  • Nutty crunch: Stir in half a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans with the raisins.
  • Glazed finish: Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze once they’ve cooled.
  • Berry swap: Try dried cranberries, cherries, or chopped apricots instead of raisins.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

  • Room temperature: Store cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay soft if you wrap them in a clean kitchen towel inside the container.
  • Refrigerator: For a little longer life, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Warm gently in the microwave before serving.
  • Freezing baked scones: Wrap each cooled scone individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature and reheat in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes.
  • Freezing unbaked dough: You can also freeze the wedges before baking. Place on a tray until solid, then store in a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the bake time.

Nutrition

Three thick slices of raisin bread are stacked on top of each other against a white background, with scattered raisins in the foreground—perfect for fans of classic raisin scones. - 73

Do I need to soak the raisins first?

It’s optional! If you like plumper raisins, soak them in warm water (or even a splash of rum) for 10 minutes, then pat dry before mixing in.

Why are my scones spreading too much?

This usually happens if the butter gets too warm or if the dough is too wet. Make sure your butter is cold, and don’t skip chilling the dough briefly if your kitchen is warm.

How do I get my scones fluffier?

The key is not overmixing. Gently fold everything together and let the oven’s heat do the puffing magic.

<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.errenskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Raisin-Scones-4-683x1024.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Three golden-brown Raisin Scones are stacked and shown up close, highlighting their fluffy texture and studded raisins. Text overlay reads “Homemade Raisin Scones” and “Erren’s Kitchen. - 74”>

Golden homemade raisin scones stacked to showcase their soft texture and juicy raisins inside, with “Raisin Scones” and the Erren’s Kitchen website displayed. - 75 A round batch of Raisin Scones cut into wedges sits on a slate board. Below are three close-up photos of the scones and a pink banner with the text “Raisin Scones” and “Erren’s Kitchen.”. - 76

<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.errenskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Raisin-Scones-3-683x1024.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Two golden brown Raisin Scones, packed with plump raisins, are displayed on a parchment-lined tray. The image features the Erren’s Kitchen logo and website with the text “Homemade Raisin Scones. - 77”>

Three thick slices of raisin bread are stacked on top of each other against a white background, with scattered raisins in the foreground—perfect for fans of classic raisin scones. - 78 Eight golden-brown Raisin Scones, perfectly triangular, are arranged in a circle on a dark slate surface, with a few loose raisins scattered nearby. - 79 A close-up of a slice of golden-brown raisin scone, studded with plump raisins, rests on crumpled parchment paper. More raisin scones and scattered raisins are visible in the background. - 80

<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.errenskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Raisin-Scones-3-683x1024.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Two golden brown Raisin Scones, packed with plump raisins, are displayed on a parchment-lined tray. The image features the Erren’s Kitchen logo and website with the text “Homemade Raisin Scones. - 81”>

A round loaf of golden-brown Raisin Scones, sliced into eight wedges, is displayed on a white plate. Bowls of raisins and a cup are visible in the background. - 82

These soft, golden raisin scones are perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea—simple to make, lightly sweet, and baked to fluffy perfection.

in this article:

  • Know Before You Scroll
  • Perfect British Scones
  • Ingredient Notes
  • Important Tip for International Bakers
  • Step By Step Instructions
  • More Scones
  • Raisin Scones
  • Erren’s Top Tips
  • Variations & Add-Ins
  • Storage & Freezing Instructions
  • FAQs

Know Before You Scroll

Raisin Scones - 83

What You’ll Need

All-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, butter, cream or milk, eggs, raisins, extra cream or milk for brushing.

Flavor Profile

Lightly sweet, buttery, and tender with chewy pops of raisins in every bite—classic cozy bakery vibes.

Difficulty Level

Beginner-friendly. A little mixing, a quick knead, and into the oven they go.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls, whisk, spatula, measuring cups and spoons, parchment paper, rolling pin, baking sheet, knife.

Top Tip

Don’t overwork the dough—just knead until it’s smooth. Over-kneading makes tough scones.

Make Ahead

Mix and shape the dough, then chill it overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for warm scones on demand.

Ingredient Swaps

No raisins? Try dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even chocolate chips.

A close-up of a slice of golden-brown raisin scone, studded with plump raisins, rests on crumpled parchment paper. More raisin scones and scattered raisins are visible in the background. - 84

Perfect British Scones

I lived in England for more than 15 years, and during that time I learned how to make authentic British scones in a class at a local cooking school. When I first posted these raisin scones back in 2016, they quickly became a reader favorite—soft, buttery, and perfectly studded with sweet raisins—and they’ve since been shared nearly 10,000 times on social media. The recipe itself hasn’t changed one bit, because it’s already the classic scone I keep coming back to. What has changed is the post itself. The original photos weren’t bright enough to do them justice, and the instructions didn’t include all the little tips I’ve learned along the way. So I’ve refreshed this post with bright new photos, a step-by-step video, and more helpful content to make sure every batch you bake turns out bakery-perfect.

Eight golden-brown Raisin Scones, perfectly triangular, are arranged in a circle on a dark slate surface, with a few loose raisins scattered nearby. - 85

Ingredient Notes

Baking ingredients on a counter: a flour canister, a glass pitcher of milk, a plate of butter, a salt shaker, sugar, raisins, and a blue egg carton with brown eggs—everything you need to make delicious raisin scones. - 86

Dry Ingredients

Best Choice

Stick with unbleached all-purpose for structure, table salt for even seasoning, white granulated sugar for balanced sweetness, and baking powder that’s less than 6 months old for the best rise.

Substitutions

In the UK, use plain flour and caster sugar. Fine sea salt works in place of table salt. If you only have self-rising flour, you can omit the salt and baking powder.

Butter

Best Choice

Unsalted butter, very cold and cut into cubes so it blends into the flour in crumbly bits.

Substitutions

Salted butter (reduce the added salt slightly). Plant-based butter works for a dairy-free option.

Wet Ingredients

Best Choice

Large eggs at room temperature for easy mixing, Half-and-half or heavy cream makes the richest, most tender scones.

Substitutions

Double cream in the UK, Whole milk also works fine but makes them a little less rich. Non-dairy milk can be used, though texture may differ.

Raisins

Best Choice

Regular seedless raisins, sultanas, or golden raisins for a brighter flavor twist.

Substitutions

Dried cranberries, chopped dates, or chocolate chips.

Where to Find

Baking aisle or snack aisle, sometimes near trail mix.

Important Tip for International Bakers

One thing I learned from living in both the US and the UK is that ingredients aren’t the same everywhere—especially butter and flour. The texture, fat content, and even protein levels can be different, which means a recipe written for one country doesn’t always turn out the same in another. That’s why if you’re outside the US or Canada, I recommend using the metric version of this recipe (click the “metric” button above the ingredient list). It’s not just a simple conversion—it’s a version I developed while living in the UK, tested with European ingredients, so your scones will bake up just right.

You can find the full, printable recipe at the top of this post , but you can read the detailed instructions with photos for each step below.

Step By Step Instructions

1

Preheat and Mix the Dry Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F/190°C. In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This gives us a light, even base for the scones.

A metal sifter containing flour rests over a clear glass bowl, with some flour already sifted into the bowl below—perfectly prepped for baking delicious Raisin Scones, all set against a white background. - 87

2

Work in the Butter

Add cold, cubed butter to the bowl. Toss to coat, then rub it into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture looks like big, buttery crumbs. This is what makes the scones flaky.

A clear glass bowl filled with an off-white powder, likely flour for Raisin Scones, sits on a white surface. - 88

3

Add the Raisins

Stir in the raisins so they’re evenly distributed—every bite should get a little pop of sweetness.

A glass bowl filled with flour and chocolate chips, perfect for making Raisin Scones, viewed from above on a white background. - 89

4

Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream and eggs until smooth and well blended.

A white bowl filled with a light yellow, frothy liquid, likely beaten eggs or an egg mixture for raisin scones, viewed from above on a white background. - 90

5

Bring the Dough Together

Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and gently stir until it just comes together. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour. Too dry? Add a splash more cream.

A glass bowl containing dough for raisin scones, mixed with plump raisins, resting on a white surface. - 91

6

Knead & Shape

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, knead about 25 to 30 times until it’s smooth and soft—don’t overdo it!

Place the dough on lightly floured parchment paper. Press it into a disk, then roll it into a 9-inch circle about 1 inch thick.

Side-by-side images of Raisin Scones dough: on the left, a round ball with raisins on a floured surface; on the right, the same dough flattened into a disc on parchment paper, ready for baking. - 92

7

Cut & Brush

Now I cut the round into eight equal wedges, kind of like slicing a pizza. A quick brush of milk or cream on top gives these scones that gorgeous golden finish.

A round disk of unbaked Raisin Scones dough is cut into eight wedges on parchment paper. A blue pastry brush gently glazes the scone wedges, readying them for baking. - 93

8

Bake

And finally, bake them for 20 to 25 minutes, until they’re puffed and beautifully golden brown.

A round, golden-brown Raisin Scones loaf is cut into eight triangular slices, arranged in a circle on baking parchment atop a dark slate board. A dish of butter and scattered raisins rest nearby on a white marble surface. - 94

9

Serve & Enjoy

That’s it — warm, buttery, raisin scones fresh from the oven. Perfect with a little butter or jam and a hot cup of tea.

Two thick, golden-brown raisin scones are stacked on a white surface. The top scone has a bite taken out, revealing a soft, fluffy interior packed with juicy raisins. - 95

More Scones

  • Iced Raspberry Scones
  • How to Make Scones
  • Lemon Blueberry Scones
A round loaf of golden-brown Raisin Scones, sliced into eight wedges, is displayed on a white plate. Bowls of raisins and a cup are visible in the background. - 96

Ingredients

  • ▢ 3 cups all-purpose flour ( See notes if outside the US )
  • ▢ ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ▢ 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ▢ ½ teaspoon salt
  • ▢ 8 tablespoons butter (cut into small cubes)
  • ▢ 1 cup half and half (whipping cream or milk, plus 1 to 2 tablespoons extra for brushing)
  • ▢ 2 eggs
  • ▢ 1 cup raisins

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  • Sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
  • Add the cubed butter to the flour mixture. Toss to coat, then rub the butter between your palms or fingertips until the mixture looks like large crumbs. Stir in the raisins.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream (or milk) and eggs.
  • Pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture. Stir gently to bring the dough together. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour. If it feels too dry, add a splash more cream.
  • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. With floured hands, knead 25–30 times until the dough is smooth.
  • Place a sheet of parchment paper (cut to fit your baking sheet) on your work surface and lightly flour it. Transfer the dough onto the paper and press it into a disk. Using a floured rolling pin, roll it into a 9-inch round, about 1 inch thick.
  • Transfer the parchment and dough to a baking sheet. Cut the dough into 8 equal wedges.
  • Brush the tops lightly with milk or cream.
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Tips

Erren’s Top Tips

  • Keep the butter cold: Cold butter is the secret to flaky scones. I like to cube mine, pop it in the freezer for 10 minutes, and then mix it in.
  • Don’t overwork the dough: Kneading too much makes tough scones. Just bring it together until smooth, and then stop.
  • Flour your tools: Lightly flouring your hands, rolling pin, and knife helps keep the dough from sticking.
  • Use parchment paper: Rolling and shaping the dough right on the parchment makes it easy to transfer to the baking sheet.
  • Brush for shine: A quick swipe of milk or cream gives that bakery-style golden finish.
  • Check for doneness: The tops should be golden and the bottoms just lightly browned. If you’re unsure, tap the bottom — it should sound hollow.

Variations & Add-Ins

  • Citrus zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a bright flavor twist.
  • Spiced scones: A teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice mixed into the dry ingredients brings cozy fall vibes.
  • Nutty crunch: Stir in half a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans with the raisins.
  • Glazed finish: Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze once they’ve cooled.
  • Berry swap: Try dried cranberries, cherries, or chopped apricots instead of raisins.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

  • Room temperature: Store cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay soft if you wrap them in a clean kitchen towel inside the container.
  • Refrigerator: For a little longer life, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Warm gently in the microwave before serving.
  • Freezing baked scones: Wrap each cooled scone individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature and reheat in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes.
  • Freezing unbaked dough: You can also freeze the wedges before baking. Place on a tray until solid, then store in a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the bake time.

Nutrition

Three thick slices of raisin bread are stacked on top of each other against a white background, with scattered raisins in the foreground—perfect for fans of classic raisin scones. - 97

Do I need to soak the raisins first?

It’s optional! If you like plumper raisins, soak them in warm water (or even a splash of rum) for 10 minutes, then pat dry before mixing in.

Why are my scones spreading too much?

This usually happens if the butter gets too warm or if the dough is too wet. Make sure your butter is cold, and don’t skip chilling the dough briefly if your kitchen is warm.

How do I get my scones fluffier?

The key is not overmixing. Gently fold everything together and let the oven’s heat do the puffing magic.