Mary Berry Drop Scones Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking to whip up a delicious, quick, and versatile treat, Mary Berry’s drop scones recipe is a must-try!

These little fluffy pancakes are perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a light snack. With Mary Berry’s expert touch, the recipe is simple enough for beginners, but the results are always impressive. Whether you top them with fresh fruit, a dollop of cream, or just a sprinkle of sugar, these drop scones are guaranteed to be a hit with anyone you share them with. Plus, they’re a wonderful way to bring a little bit of comfort and warmth to your day!

Mary Berry Drop Scones Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s drop scones, the list of ingredients is simple yet delicious, capturing the essence of classic British comfort food. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

1. Self-Raising Flour: This is the key ingredient that helps give the scones a light and fluffy texture. The self-raising flour contains baking powder, which means you don’t need to add any additional leavening agents. If you can’t find self-raising flour, you can make your own by adding a teaspoon of baking powder for every 150g of plain flour.

2. Caster Sugar: This fine-grain sugar dissolves easily in the batter, ensuring that the drop scones have just the right level of sweetness without being overly sugary. Caster sugar helps the scones maintain a soft texture.

3. Baking Powder: Although self-raising flour already contains leavening agents, a little extra baking powder ensures that the scones rise well and achieve the desired fluffy texture. It’s important not to overdo it, or the scones may end up with a slightly bitter aftertaste.

4. Salt: Just a pinch of salt brings out the flavors and balances the sweetness in the batter. It also enhances the natural flavors of the flour and other ingredients.

5. Milk: Whole milk is typically used for its rich creaminess, but you could substitute it with plant-based milk, such as almond or oat, if desired. Milk provides the necessary moisture for the batter and contributes to the soft, tender texture of the scones.

6. Eggs: Two medium eggs are essential for binding the ingredients together and adding richness to the dough. They also help with the rise, contributing to the lightness of the scones.

7. Butter: Butter adds a golden color to the scones and a subtle richness to the flavor. It also helps create a soft crumb. The butter should be at room temperature to blend easily with the dry ingredients.

8. Vanilla Extract: This is optional but adds an extra layer of flavor, giving the drop scones a slight sweetness and enhancing the overall taste. You could also add a splash of almond extract for a different twist.

9. Lemon Zest (optional): A touch of lemon zest can bring brightness and a fresh, citrusy aroma to the scones. This step is optional but can provide a unique flavor profile if you want to experiment.

With these simple ingredients, you’ll have everything you need to create the perfect Mary Berry drop scones, which are sure to delight your taste buds.

Equipment Needed

To prepare Mary Berry’s drop scones, you’ll need just a few essential kitchen tools that will make the process smooth and efficient. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Large Mixing Bowl: You’ll need a bowl large enough to combine the dry and wet ingredients. It’s essential for mixing everything thoroughly without making a mess. A large bowl also gives you space to fold in the ingredients gently, which helps keep the scones light and airy.

2. Whisk: A simple whisk is perfect for beating the eggs, combining the dry ingredients, and ensuring that everything is smooth. You could also use an electric mixer on low speed if you prefer, but a manual whisk provides the control to avoid over-mixing the batter.

3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial when making drop scones. Measuring cups and spoons will ensure that the proportions of flour, sugar, and other ingredients are correct, giving you consistent results every time.

4. Frying Pan or Griddle: You’ll need a non-stick frying pan or griddle for cooking the scones. A griddle is ideal because it offers a large, flat surface to cook multiple scones at once. Make sure it’s heated to the correct temperature before dropping the batter in.

5. Ladle or Spoon: A spoon or ladle is necessary to drop the batter onto the hot griddle. It gives you control over the portion sizes, ensuring that the scones are uniform in size and cook evenly.

6. Spatula: A spatula is essential for flipping the scones without breaking them. You’ll need it to gently lift the scones and turn them over when they’ve developed a golden-brown color on the underside.

7. Cooling Rack: Once your drop scones are cooked, it’s important to let them cool properly on a wire rack. This allows air to circulate around the scones, keeping them from becoming soggy as they cool.

8. Serving Plate: After cooling, arrange your scones on a serving plate. You might also want to serve them with some jam, cream, or fresh fruit for a truly indulgent treat.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Drop Scones

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Mary Berry’s famous drop scones. The process is simple but requires a little attention to detail to get that perfect fluffy texture.

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: Start by sifting the self-raising flour, caster sugar, and salt into a large mixing bowl. Sifting helps to break up any clumps and ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, resulting in a smooth batter.

2. Beat the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and melted butter (or softened butter). If you’re adding vanilla extract or lemon zest, include it in this step. Be sure the butter is melted or soft enough to mix easily with the other ingredients.

3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Using a whisk or spoon, gently stir until everything is combined. You want to mix it just enough to bring everything together – over-mixing can result in dense scones.

4. Preheat Your Griddle or Pan: Place your frying pan or griddle over medium heat and let it warm up. Add a small knob of butter to grease the surface. It’s important to test the heat of the pan by dropping a small amount of batter in-if it sizzles gently, the pan is ready.

5. Cook the Drop Scones: Using a ladle or spoon, drop dollops of the batter onto the hot griddle, spaced apart so they have room to spread slightly. Let each side cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Once bubbles form on the surface of the scones, flip them using a spatula. Cook for another minute or two on the other side.

6. Cool and Serve: Once the scones are cooked, transfer them to a cooling rack. Serve them warm with your favorite toppings, such as fresh berries, clotted cream, or a drizzle of honey.

Expert Tips

1. Don’t Overmix the Batter: One of the most important tips for perfect drop scones is to avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients, as overworking the batter will result in dense, tough scones.

2. Ensure Your Pan is the Right Temperature: A pan that’s too hot can burn the outside of the scones while leaving the inside raw, while a pan that’s too cool will cause the scones to spread too much and become flat. Test the heat by splashing a drop of water on the surface – it should sizzle gently.

3. Use Room Temperature Butter: If you’re using butter instead of melted butter, make sure it’s at room temperature. This will help it incorporate evenly into the batter, giving your scones a soft texture.

4. Experiment with Flavors: While the basic drop scone recipe is perfect as is, feel free to experiment with flavor additions. For instance, you can add a handful of berries, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even some finely chopped nuts to give your scones a twist.

5. Keep the Scones Warm: If you’re making a large batch, keep the scones warm by placing them in a low oven (about 100°C / 212°F) while you finish cooking the rest.

Mary Berry’s drop scones are a quintessential British treat that’s as versatile as it is delicious. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, they offer a delightful balance of lightness and flavor, making them perfect for breakfast, tea, or any casual gathering. Whether you’re following the traditional recipe or adding your own twist, the beauty of these scones lies in their simplicity and ability to bring people together.

So, gather your ingredients, dust off that griddle, and treat yourself (and others) to these soft, fluffy drop scones that are bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Drop Scones

Mary Berry’s drop scones are a classic British treat, beloved for their fluffy texture and subtle sweetness. These versatile little pancakes can be adapted in a variety of ways to suit your personal tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking to add extra flavor, make them more indulgent, or try a healthier twist, there are countless variations to explore.

1. Fruit-Filled Drop Scones

   For a fruity spin, consider adding fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries directly to the batter. You can also use dried fruits such as raisins, sultanas, or even chopped dried apricots for a more chewy, sweet element.

   For a burst of citrus, try adding orange or lemon zest to the batter. If you want to make your scones even more indulgent, consider a drizzle of fruit syrup over the top after cooking.

2. Chocolate Chip Drop Scones

   For those with a sweet tooth, you can’t go wrong with adding chocolate chips to the batter. Dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips will melt and create gooey pockets of richness within the soft scones. These scones can easily be transformed into a dessert by pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

3. Spiced Drop Scones

   To warm up your drop scones, try incorporating spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger. These spices add a comforting, cozy depth of flavor that’s perfect for cooler months. A pinch of allspice or ground cloves can also elevate the flavor profile and give the scones a delightful warmth.

4. Savory Drop Scones

   Not everything needs to be sweet!

   Try swapping out the sugar for a pinch of salt, and add ingredients like grated cheese (cheddar works wonderfully), chopped chives, or even crumbled bacon. These savory variations are fantastic served with a dollop of sour cream, smoked salmon, or a tangy chutney. Savory drop scones are also a great accompaniment to a soup or salad for a light lunch or dinner.

5. Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free Variations

   For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily make gluten-free drop scones by swapping out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use a reliable gluten-free flour that includes xanthan gum or another binding agent to keep the texture soft and moist. If you’re avoiding dairy, substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative, like almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free butter or oil.

6. Wholemeal Drop Scones

   For a healthier, more hearty version, you can replace part or all of the white flour with wholemeal flour. This gives the scones a nutty flavor and increases the fiber content, making them a more nutritious breakfast or snack. A drizzle of honey or a dollop of Greek yogurt pairs beautifully with wholemeal drop scones, balancing the more rustic flavor.

7. Vegan Drop Scones

   To make your drop scones vegan, simply replace the eggs and dairy with plant-based ingredients. For the eggs, you can use flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, left to sit for 5 minutes, makes an excellent egg substitute).

   Swap the milk for any dairy-free milk and use a vegan-friendly butter or oil. These scones can still retain their fluffy texture without sacrificing flavor.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Leftover drop scones, although delicious fresh off the griddle, can be stored for later enjoyment with just a few simple steps to ensure they retain their soft, tender texture. Here’s how to store them effectively:

1. Cooling

   Allow the drop scones to cool completely before storing them. Storing hot scones can create condensation, which may cause them to become soggy when they cool down. Let them sit at room temperature on a wire rack for around 15 to 20 minutes, ensuring they’re fully cooled.

2. Storage in an Airtight Container

   To keep your drop scones fresh, store them in an airtight container. This will protect them from drying out, maintaining their moist and fluffy texture for several days. You can stack them neatly, but it’s a good idea to place a layer of parchment paper between the scones to prevent them from sticking together.

3. Freezing

   If you don’t plan to finish your scones within a few days, freezing them is a fantastic option. Wrap the cooled drop scones individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.

   When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds to restore their soft texture. They’ll taste nearly as fresh as when they were first made.

4. Reheating

   To revive leftover scones, avoid using the microwave as it can cause them to become rubbery. Instead, place them on a baking tray and heat them in an oven preheated to 180°C (350°F) for about 5-8 minutes. This helps them crisp up slightly on the outside while staying soft inside, making them nearly as good as freshly made.

5. Do Not Store with Toppings

   If you’ve added toppings such as whipped cream, jam, or syrup, avoid storing them with the scones. These toppings can make the scones soggy and reduce their shelf life. It’s best to store them separately and add any toppings right before serving.

What Goes Well With Drop Scones

Drop scones are versatile enough to pair with a wide variety of accompaniments, whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

1. Butter and Jam

   The simplest and most classic pairing is a slathering of butter and a spoonful of jam. Strawberry, raspberry, or apricot jam complement the mild sweetness of drop scones, while butter adds richness and depth. You could also use clotted cream for an indulgent treat.

2. Fresh Fruit

   Sliced bananas, berries, or kiwi add freshness and a burst of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the fluffy scones. You can also macerate fruit with a little sugar and lemon juice to bring out its natural sweetness before serving it on top of the scones.

3. Whipped Cream or Crème Fraîche

   For a more decadent option, whipped cream or crème fraîche pairs perfectly with drop scones. Crème fraîche adds a slightly tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the scones, while whipped cream gives them an extra lightness.

4. Honey or Maple Syrup

   A drizzle of honey or maple syrup is an excellent way to add sweetness and moisture to your drop scones. These liquids make the scones even more indulgent, especially when paired with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

5. Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese

   For savory lovers, smoked salmon and cream cheese are an excellent pairing. The creamy texture of the cheese and the delicate smokiness of the salmon elevate the flavor of the scones. You could also add fresh dill or a squeeze of lemon to further enhance the combination.

6. Eggs and Bacon

   For a more substantial meal, drop scones can make a great base for a breakfast plate. Top them with a fried egg, crispy bacon, or even a slice of avocado for a satisfying, savory combination.

7. Ice Cream or Custard

   When serving drop scones as a dessert, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a rich, creamy custard. The warmth of the scones combined with the cold creaminess of the ice cream creates a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s drop scones are an exceptionally adaptable and delicious treat that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you prefer them sweet or savory, with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream, there are endless variations to try, ensuring there’s something for every palate.

By following best practices for storing leftovers, you can enjoy these fluffy treats days after they’re made without sacrificing their texture or flavor. Drop scones are a wonderful canvas for creativity, so don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavor combinations. Whether served at breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, these delightful little scones are always a crowd-pleaser, making them a perfect addition to any occasion.

FAQs

What Are Drop Scones?

Drop scones are a type of Scottish pancake, typically smaller and thicker than regular pancakes. They are made from a simple batter of flour, sugar, eggs, milk, and baking powder, and cooked on a griddle or in a frying pan. They are often served warm with butter, jam, or cream.

What Makes Mary Berry’s Drop Scones Recipe Special?

Mary Berry’s drop scones recipe is well-loved for its light and fluffy texture. She uses a perfect balance of ingredients and a method that ensures the scones are cooked to golden perfection. Her recipe is simple yet reliable, making it a favorite among home bakers.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Drop Scones Recipe Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make the drop scones ahead of time. Once they’ve cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them and reheat them in the microwave or in a warm oven.

What Kind Of Flour Should I Use For Mary Berry’s Drop Scones?

Mary Berry typically uses plain flour (all-purpose flour) for her drop scones recipe. This ensures the scones are tender and light. Avoid using self-raising flour, as the recipe already includes baking powder to achieve the right rise.

Can I Substitute The Milk In Mary Berry’s Drop Scones Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute milk with a dairy-free alternative such as almond milk or oat milk if you’re looking for a dairy-free version. However, the flavor and texture may vary slightly depending on the milk substitute used.

How Do I Prevent My Drop Scones From Being Too Dry?

To prevent dry drop scones, be careful not to overmix the batter. Stir the ingredients together until just combined, and don’t worry if it’s a bit lumpy.

Overmixing can cause the scones to become tough and dry. Also, make sure your griddle or pan is not too hot, as this can cause the outside to cook too quickly before the inside has time to cook through.

Can I Add Fruit Or Other Ingredients To Mary Berry’s Drop Scones?

Yes, you can customize Mary Berry’s drop scones by adding ingredients like blueberries, raisins, or even grated chocolate. Simply fold in the fruit or other additions gently after preparing the batter to ensure they are evenly distributed.

What Is The Best Way To Cook Mary Berry’s Drop Scones?

The best way to cook drop scones is on a non-stick griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Lightly grease the pan with butter or oil, and use a spoon to drop the batter in small rounds onto the hot surface. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown, turning them carefully with a spatula.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Drop Scones Without Eggs?

It’s possible to make drop scones without eggs by using an egg replacement, such as a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, left to sit for a few minutes), or a commercial egg replacer. Keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly, but they should still turn out delicious.

What Should I Serve With Mary Berry’s Drop Scones?

Mary Berry’s drop scones are traditionally served with butter, jam, or cream. You can also enjoy them with fresh berries, honey, or a dollop of clotted cream for a more indulgent treat. For a more savory version, try serving them with smoked salmon and cream cheese.