Classic scones

Instructions

1. Step 1

   Heat the oven to 200C/fan 180C/gas 6. Mix the flour, baking powder and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. Rub in the butter with your fingertips until the mixture looks like flaky breadcrumbs. Stir in the sugar and raisins or sultanas.

2. Step 2

   Bit by bit, stir in the egg, then buttermilk or milk until you have a firm dough – don’t overwork it, just bring it together.

3. Step 3

   Turn out onto a floured work surface. Pat the dough into a circle about 2cm thick and give it one or two passes with a rolling pin – don’t press or you’ll squash out the air.

4. Step 4

   Cut out scones using a 5-6cm cutter. Press straight downwards as quickly as you can and, for the best rise, don’t twist the cutter.

5. Step 5

   Put onto a non-stick baking sheet and brush the tops with buttermilk or milk. Bake for 12-15 minutes until risen and cooked. Serve with butter, jam, cream, or all three.