# Delicious Rhubarb & Custard Scones Recipe
**Meta Title**: Delightful Rhubarb & Custard Scones Recipe
**Meta Description**: Bake scrumptious rhubarb & custard scones! Perfect for tea time or a cozy brunch, these scones are easy, aromatic, and wonderfully delicious.
You know that feeling when you walk into a cozy bakery and the warm scent of freshly baked goods wraps around you like a blanket? That rush of nostalgia mixed with excitement is exactly what I feel every time I bake scones. There’s something heartwarming about the simplicity of scones, yet when you elevate them with delightful ingredients like tangy rhubarb and creamy custard, they become a treat that transcends the ordinary. Today, I am thrilled to share my recipe for **Delicious Rhubarb & Custard Scones**, a tempting twist on the classic that will have your kitchen smelling heavenly and your taste buds dancing with joy.
Rhubarb, with its vibrant pink hues and tart flavor, brings a refreshing zing to these scones, perfectly complemented by the sweet richness of custard. Ideal for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a snack, these scones are soft, flaky, and utterly irresistible. Let’s embark on this baking adventure together.
## What is Rhubarb & Custard?
Rhubarb & custard is an iconic flavor combination that originated in British cuisine. The tartness of the rhubarb contrasts beautifully with the creamy sweetness of the custard, creating a balance that is both refreshing and indulgent. Rhubarb, a perennial vegetable, boasts long, pink stalks with a unique tart flavor. Traditionally used in pies, jams, and desserts, it has gained popularity in modern baking. **Custard** is a harmonious mixture of eggs, milk, and sugar, cooked gently until it becomes a silky, creamy delight. Together, they make an exquisite pairing that’s beloved by many.
When combined in scone form, these elements create baked goods that are not only delicious but also an inviting visual treat. Imagine golden-brown scones with flecks of pink and a subtle sweetness peeking through, all topped off with a drizzle of custard glaze. It’s comfort food at its finest.
## Why You’ll Love These Rhubarb & Custard Scones
These delicious rhubarb & custard scones stand out for several reasons. Firstly, their **flavor** profile is delightful; the tartness of the rhubarb perfectly offsets the sweetness of the custard, resulting in a balanced treat that feels both comforting and refreshing. Secondly, the recipe is **easy to follow** and can be accomplished in just under an hour, making it perfect for a quick breakfast or a last-minute brunch gathering with friends. And let’s not forget, they’re utterly versatile – serve them warm from the oven, or enjoy them cold the next day. They even freeze well, making them a fantastic option for meal prep.
Moreover, baking these scones fills your home with an inviting aroma that beckons everyone to gather in the kitchen. That’s the kind of magic that baking brings – it’s not just about the food; it’s about the memories created around the table.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delightful rhubarb & custard scones, you will need the following ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building flavor and texture:
– **250g self-raising flour**: This will be the base of your scones, providing the right amount of lift.
– **75g unsalted butter**: Ensure that it’s cold and diced; this will help achieve that beautifully flaky texture.
– **50g caster sugar**: Adds sweetness and helps in browning. You can substitute with brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor.
– **150ml buttermilk**: This helps create a tender, moist crumb. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix milk with a tsp of lemon juice to create a quick substitute.
– **100g rhubarb**: Fresh rhubarb, chopped into small pieces. Frozen can work in a pinch, but fresh provides the best texture.
– **1 large egg**: Separated into yolk and whites. The yolk adds richness, while the whites will be brushed on top for a glossy finish.
– **Custard powder**: About 2 tablespoons, mixed with 150ml of milk to create the custard flavor.
## How to Make Rhubarb & Custard Scones
Making these scones is a breeze. Follow these simple steps to create a batch that will impress your family and friends:
1. **Preheat your oven**: Set your oven to 220°C (428°F). This high heat is essential for achieving perfectly risen scones that have a golden crust.
2. **Prepare your baking tray**: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will make it easier to remove the scones after baking.
3. **Mix the dry ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the **self-raising flour**, **caster sugar**, and **cold butter**. Using the tips of your fingers, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles **fine breadcrumbs**. This step is crucial for ensuring your scones have that flaky texture we all love.
4. **Add the wet ingredients**: Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and gradually pour in the **buttermilk** and **egg yolk**. Gently mix with a fork until the dough starts to come together. It’s important not to overmix at this stage – you want the dough to be soft but not sticky.
5. **Incorporate the rhubarb**: Fold in the chopped **rhubarb** gently, being cautious not to break it up too much. The goal is to distribute the rhubarb throughout the dough, adding bursts of flavor in every bite.
6. **Shape the scones**: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a circle about 2.5 cm thick. Using a sharp knife, cut the circle into wedges (like a pizza) or use a round cutter to create traditional scone shapes. Place them on your prepared baking tray, leaving some space between each.
7. **Egg wash**: Lightly whisk the reserved **egg white** and brush it over the tops of the scones. This will give them a beautiful golden color once baked.
8. **Bake**: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until they are risen and golden. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake; they should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. **Cool and glaze**: Once baked, allow the scones to cool on a wire rack. While they cool, prepare your custard glaze: mix custard powder with a little hot water or milk until smooth, and drizzle over the scones once they are at room temperature.
## Tips, Tricks & Variations
To ensure your scone-making experience is as delightful as the scones themselves, consider these expert tips:
– **Use cold ingredients**: For flaky scones, it’s crucial that your butter and buttermilk are cold. This helps to create steam in the oven, resulting in a puffier scone.
– **Handle the dough gently**: Overworking the dough can lead to tough scones. Mix just until everything is combined.
– **Try different fruits**: If rhubarb isn’t in season, you can easily swap it for other fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or cranberries. Just adjust the sugar if using tart fruits.
– **Experiment with flavors**: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spiced flavor that complements the custard beautifully.
– **Serving suggestions**: Serve the scones warm with clotted cream and extra custard for an indulgent treat. They also pair wonderfully with tea or coffee!
## What to Serve With Rhubarb & Custard Scones
These delightful scones are perfect on their own, but if you’re looking to create a truly memorable tea party or brunch, consider serving them with some of these delightful options:
– **Clotted Cream**: The rich, velvety texture of clotted cream complements the scones beautifully, adding an extra layer of indulgence.
– **Fresh Berries**: Serve a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a vibrant, fruity contrast that brightens the palate.
– **Tea**: Brew a pot of Earl Grey or chamomile tea for a warm, comforting beverage that brings out the flavors of the scones.
– **Custard Sauce**: A warm custard sauce drizzled on top or served alongside takes these scones to the next level of deliciousness.
## Nutrition & Health Benefits
These rhubarb & custard scones are not just a delightful treat; they also offer certain nutritional benefits:
– **Rhubarb is a great source of vitamins** C and K, as well as fiber, which is important for digestive health.
– **Scones can be made with whole wheat flour** for added nutrients and a nuttier flavor.
– Overall, each scone has approximately 180-200 calories, depending on portion size and ingredients used. They can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.
For more nutrition-related information, you can check out sources like [Healthline’s guide on rhubarb](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/rhubarb-benefits) and [the USDA’s food database](https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/).
## Frequently Asked Questions
1. **Can I freeze these scones?**
Yes, you can freeze unbaked scones. Shape them and place them on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Bake straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
2. **What can I substitute for buttermilk?**
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute: mix 150ml of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice, let it sit for about 5 minutes, and use it just like buttermilk.
3. **How can I tell when my scones are done baking?**
Scones are done when they have risen significantly and are golden brown on top. A light tap on the bottom should sound hollow, indicating they’re cooked through.
4. **What other fruits work well in scones?**
Besides rhubarb, fruits such as blueberries, cherries, or even chopped apples can also make excellent additions to your scone mixture. Just adjust the sugar as needed based on the fruit’s tartness.
5. **Can I make these scones vegan?**
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based spread, use almond or soy milk instead of buttermilk, and omit the egg wash or replace it with a mixture of non-dairy milk and a bit of syrup.
## Conclusion
These **Delicious Rhubarb & Custard Scones** are an enchanting blend of flavors and textures that not only taste delightful but also have the power to bring a little joy into your day. With their flaky exterior and soft, fruity interior, they make for a perfect treat no matter the occasion. Bake a batch tonight, savor the aromas as they fill your kitchen, and indulge your senses with each bite. If you loved this recipe, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram when you try them out. Happy baking!
