Mary Berry’s Treacle Scones offer a delightful twist on the classic British scone, blending the rich, deep flavors of treacle with the light, fluffy texture that scone lovers cherish. Perfect for an afternoon tea or a cozy morning treat, these scones promise to be a hit among those who appreciate a touch of sweetness paired with their favorite spreads.
Today, I’ll guide you through the process of creating this classic treat, inspired by the legendary Mary Berry, with a step-by-step approach that’s perfect for your food blog audience.
Follow this guide to create Mary Berry’s Treacle Scones with precision, garnished with useful tips to ensure perfect results every time.
What is Mary Berry Treacle Scones?
Mary Berry Treacle Scones are a delicious variation of the classic British scone, enriched with the deep, sweet flavor of treacle. This ingredient transforms the simple scone into an irresistibly tender and richly flavored treat.
Other Scones Recipes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Distinctive Flavor: The treacle imparts a unique richness that’s not overpoweringly sweet.
- Perfect Texture: Achieve a light, fluffy interior with a slightly crisp exterior.
- Versatile: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack.
- Simple Ingredients: Requires basic pantry staples paired with treacle for an extraordinary result.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Treacle Scones
- Self-raising flour: 450 grams (about 1 lb)
- Baking powder: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: A pinch
- Butter: 100 grams (3.5 oz), chilled and diced
- Dark treacle: 2 tablespoons (approx. 30 ml)
- Milk: About 200 ml (7 fl oz), a little extra for glazing
- Caster sugar: 50 grams (1.76 oz)
- Optional: raisins or sultanas: 50 grams (1.76 oz) to add a fruity element
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 Treacle Scones
Step 1: Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 220°C (428°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the scones from sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour and baking powder. Add a pinch of salt and whisk to combine.
- Incorporate Butter: Add the diced butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
Step 2: Making the Dough
- Combine Treacle and Milk: In a small saucepan, gently warm the milk and treacle together until the treacle is fully dissolved. Do not allow the mixture to boil.
- Form the Dough: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the treacle-milk mixture, along with the caster sugar. Mix with a wooden spoon until a soft dough forms. If using, fold in the raisins or sultanas.
- Knead Lightly: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead very gently just until smooth. Overworking the dough can make the scones tough.
Step 3: Cutting and Baking
- Shape the Scones: Roll out the dough to about 2cm thick. Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out scones and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Gently re-roll any scraps and cut more scones.
- Glaze and Bake: Brush the tops of the scones with a little milk to help them brown. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until risen and golden.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Treacle Scones?
- Clotted Cream and Jam: A classic choice, offering a creamy texture and a fruity contrast.
- Butter: Simple and traditional, especially delicious when the scones are warm.
- Lemon Curd: Adds a bright, citrusy complement to the rich treacle flavor.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Drizzle lightly for a naturally sweet enhancement.
- Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing, tangy twist.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream can add a light, airy texture to balance the dense scones.
- Cheese: Offer a sharp cheddar or creamy brie for a savory contrast that complements the scone’s sweetness.
Expert Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Treacle Scones
- Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter and milk are cold to help achieve a flakier texture.
- Do Not Overwork the Dough: Handle the dough as little as possible to keep the scones light and airy.
- Even Thickness: Roll the dough evenly to ensure uniform baking and perfect rise.
- Use a Sharp Cutter: Dip your cutter in flour and press down firmly without twisting to make clean cuts that rise evenly.
- Watch the Oven: Since ovens can vary, start checking your scones a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.
Variations of Mary Berry Treacle Scones
- Orange and Spice: Add the zest of one orange and a teaspoon of mixed spice to the dough for a fragrant, festive twist.
- Chocolate Chip: Stir 100 grams of chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet, chocolaty version.
- Ginger and Treacle: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of ground ginger to enhance the treacle’s warm flavor, perfect for colder months.
- Walnut and Honey: Mix in chopped walnuts and a drizzle of honey for added texture and a subtle, nutty sweetness.
- Apple Cinnamon: Fold in finely chopped apple and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a comforting, autumn-inspired variant.
- Date and Walnut: Add chopped dates and walnuts for a chewy texture and rich flavor, ideal for a more substantial snack.
- Cheese and Chive: For a savory option, include grated sharp cheddar and finely chopped chives into the mix.
- Pumpkin Spice: Blend in some pumpkin puree and a dash of pumpkin spice mix for a seasonal treat that’s perfect for fall.
How do I Store Mary Berry Treacle Scones Leftovers?
- Room Temperature: Store cooled scones in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate: For longer storage, keep in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freeze: Wrap scones individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the microwave.
How do I Reheat Mary Berry Treacle Scones Leftovers?
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Place the scones on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: For a quick option, microwave a scone for 10-20 seconds, just until warm.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Dietary Fiber: 1 g
- Sugars: 10 g
- Protein: 4 g
FAQs
Can I Use Molasses Instead of Treacle in Scones?
Yes, you can substitute molasses for treacle in scone recipes. Molasses will provide a similar dark, rich flavor, though it may be slightly stronger and less sweet than treacle. Adjust the sugar content slightly if you prefer a sweeter taste.
How Long Do Treacle Scones Stay Fresh?
Treacle scones stay fresh for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring they are well-wrapped to maintain moisture and prevent freezer burn.
What’s the Best Way to Achieve Light and Fluffy Treacle Scones?
To achieve light and fluffy treacle scones, use very cold butter and avoid overworking the dough. Handle the dough as little as possible after adding the liquid ingredients, and make sure your baking powder is fresh to ensure a good rise.
Can Treacle Scones Be Made Gluten-Free?
Yes, treacle scones can be made gluten-free by substituting the self-raising flour with a gluten-free self-raising flour blend. Check that your baking powder and other additives are gluten-free as well, and expect a slightly different texture due to the flour substitution.
What is the Origin of Treacle Scones?
Treacle scones originate from the United Kingdom, where treacle has been a popular sweetener in baking for centuries. These scones are a variation of the traditional British scone and incorporate treacle for a distinctively rich, sweet flavor. They are often enjoyed as part of afternoon tea, a custom that has been a staple in British culture since the mid-19th century.
Final Words
Mary Berry’s Treacle Scones are a treat to make and even more delightful to eat. They’re perfect for a family breakfast or as a sweet addition to your afternoon tea. The unique flavor of treacle paired with the classic scone texture makes these scones a standout recipe. Try them out and see if they become your new favorite!