Chef Carina of Recipes by Carina has shared a three-ingredient scone recipe that delivers light and fluffy results in just 30 minutes. The key ingredient is carbonated lemonade, such as Sprite or 7UP, which reacts with self-raising flour and double cream to create the perfect texture.
The Secret Ingredient: Carbonated Lemonade
Carina explains that the carbonation in the lemonade is essential for the scones to rise. "It might seem like magic, but mixed with just self-rising flour and cream, these three ingredients create the most delicious light and fluffy scones and also the easiest scones you will ever make," she said. The cream replaces butter, coating the flour to yield a tender crumb.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have lemonade, sparkling water with a few tablespoons of sugar works. Avoid still water or still lemonade, as the fizz is crucial. For the cream, full-fat Greek yoghurt or buttermilk can be used, though the scones will be less rich.
Recipe: Makes 12 Scones
Ingredients:
- 500g self-raising flour (or plain flour with baking powder)
- 300ml double cream
- 300ml carbonated lemonade
Method:
- Preheat oven to 220°C (200°C fan)/Gas Mark 7. Line a baking tray with non-stick paper.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, cream, and lemonade. Mix with a wooden spoon until no dry patches remain; do not overmix.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and shape into a 4cm-thick rectangle. Dust with flour if sticky.
- Cut into rounds with a scone cutter or knife. Re-roll scraps as needed.
- Place on tray, brush tops with milk, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. Cool before serving.
Storage and Reheating
Wrap scones in a tea towel to keep fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To revive, reheat in the oven or microwave.
