The Best Mary Berry Fruit Scones Recipe

Mary Berry’s Fruit Scones are a delightful treat that pairs the richness of traditional British scones with the sweet tang of dried fruits. This recipe, inspired by the iconic Mary Berry, transforms simple ingredients into a delicious snack perfect for afternoon tea or a cozy morning. Serving 6-8 people, these scones can be whipped up in under an hour, making them a quick, yet impressive option for any gathering.

In this article, I’ll guide you through the process of making Mary Berry’s Fruit Scones, providing essential tips and tricks to ensure perfect results every time.

What are Mary Berry’s Fruit Scones?

Mary Berry’s Fruit Scones are a classic British baked good that combines light, fluffy dough with dried fruits like raisins or sultanas. They are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, often split open and topped with butter, jam, or clotted cream.

More From Mary Berry

• Mary Berry Buttermilk Scones
• Mary Berry Cheese Scones
• Mary Berry Drop Scones

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: Ready in just about an hour, these scones are perfect for impromptu guests or a sudden craving.
• Delightfully British: Embrace the charm of traditional British baking in your own kitchen.
• Versatile: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea, and customizable with your choice of dried fruits.

Ingredients Needed for Mary Berry’s Fruit Scones

To make these scrumptious scones, you will need the following ingredients:

• Self-raising flour: 450g (about 1 lb), sifted to prevent clumping.
• Baking powder: 2 tsp, ensures the scones rise beautifully.
• Salt: A pinch, to balance the flavors.
• Butter: 50g (1.76 oz), unsalted, cold and diced.
• Caster sugar: 50g (1.76 oz), adds a subtle sweetness.
• Milk: 300 ml (about 10 fl oz), plus extra for glazing; helps to bind the dough.
• Dried fruit: 100g (3.5 oz), such as raisins or sultanas, to mix into the dough.
• Eggs: 2 large, beaten, for richness and color.

Useful Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush
• Round cutter (optional, for shaping)

Instructions to Make Mary Berry’s Fruit Scones

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In your large mixing bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.

Step 3: Add Butter

Add the cold, diced butter to the flour mixture. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Stir in Sugar and Dried Fruit

Stir the caster sugar and dried fruit into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring even distribution.

Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients

Make a well in the center of your dry mixture and pour in the beaten eggs and milk. Mix with a spatula or a wooden spoon until the dough just comes together.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it just a few times to bring it together. Roll the dough to about 2 cm thick and use a round cutter or a glass to cut out scones.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with a little milk for a golden finish.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and well-risen.

Step 9: Cooling

Remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Serve warm with butter, jam, and clotted cream.

What to Serve With Mary Berry’s Fruit Scones

Mary Berry’s Fruit Scones are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can turn a simple snack into a sumptuous feast.

Here are some delightful options:

• Clotted Cream: A classic choice, clotted cream adds a rich, luxurious texture to the scones.
• Assorted Jams: Offer a variety of jams—strawberry, raspberry, and blackcurrant are favorites.
• Fresh Fruit: Sliced strawberries or a mixed berry salad complement the dried fruit in the scones.
• Lemon Curd: Adds a tangy contrast to the sweet scones.
• Tea: A pot of strong English tea is the perfect beverage to accompany this traditional treat.
• Cheese: Mild cheeses, like Brie or Camembert, offer a savory balance.

Expert Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Fruit Scones

Achieving the perfect scone is an art, but with these tips, you’re sure to impress:

• Cold Ingredients: Use cold butter and milk to help achieve a flakier, more tender scone.
• Do Not Overwork the Dough: Handle the dough as little as possible to keep the texture light.
• Thickness Matters: Roll your dough to a thickness of at least 2 cm to ensure well-risen scones.
• Egg Wash for Shine: Brush the tops with a beaten egg before baking for a beautiful, golden finish.
• Preheat Your Oven: Ensure your oven is at the correct temperature before you start baking for even rising.
• Baking Placement: Bake in the center of the oven to promote even heat distribution.

Variations of Mary Berry Fruit Scones

Experimenting with different ingredients can add an exciting twist to the classic fruit scone recipe:

• Chocolate Chips: Stir in chocolate chips instead of dried fruit for a decadent treat.
• Citrus Zest: Add orange or lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy punch.
• Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Spice It Up: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor profile.
• Herbal Notes: Fresh rosemary or thyme can add an aromatic twist to the scones.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and ensure all other ingredients are suitable for a gluten-free version.

How to Store Mary Berry Fruit Scones Leftovers

Proper storage is key to enjoying your fruit scones for as long as possible:

• Cool Completely: Allow scones to cool entirely before storing to prevent condensation.
• Airtight Container: Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• Room Temperature: Keep at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate for Longer Freshness: For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freeze for Extended Storage: Wrap scones individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to three months.

How to Reheat Mary Berry Fruit Scones Leftovers

Reheating scones properly can help restore their original texture and warmth, making them almost as good as freshly baked:

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Place scones on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave Briefly: For a quick method, microwave scones on high for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as they can become tough.
• Toaster Oven: A toaster oven is ideal for reheating individual scones, set at a medium setting for a few minutes.
• Avoid Toasting: While it might be tempting, avoid toasting as it can dry out the scones.

Nutrition Value Per Serving

• Calories: Approximately 320 kcal
• Protein: 6 grams
• Carbohydrates: 53 grams
• Fat: 10 grams
• Sugars: 12 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Cholesterol: 34 mg
• Sodium: 300 mg