For generations, the perfect scone has been the holy grail of British baking. That delicate balance of crumbly texture and light fluffiness has eluded even the most experienced home bakers. But what if we told you there's one simple ingredient that could revolutionise your scone game forever?
The Game-Changing Addition
According to baking experts, adding a single tablespoon of custard powder to your standard scone mixture creates an extraordinary transformation. This unexpected ingredient works magic on the texture, producing scones so light they practically float off the plate.
Why Custard Powder Works Wonders
The secret lies in custard powder's unique composition. The cornflour base acts as an additional raising agent while the vanilla flavouring adds a subtle sweetness that complements rather than overpowers the traditional scone flavour.
The results speak for themselves:
- Exceptionally light and airy texture
- Beautiful golden-brown colour when baked
- Moist crumb that stays fresh longer
- Subtle flavour enhancement without being overpowering
How to Incorporate This Baking Secret
Adding this magical ingredient couldn't be simpler. Just replace one tablespoon of your regular flour with custard powder in your favourite scone recipe. The rest of your method remains exactly the same - mix, knead lightly, cut and bake.
Tips for Perfect Scones Every Time
- Keep all ingredients cold for the best rise
- Handle the dough as little as possible
- Use a sharp cutter and don't twist it
- Place scones close together on the baking tray
- Brush with milk or egg wash for that perfect golden finish
This simple tweak could make your next afternoon tea the talk of the town. Whether you prefer yours with jam and cream the Cornish or Devonshire way, these elevated scones are sure to impress even the most discerning tea-time guests.
