Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add Butter:
Use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the Ultramel custard, milk, and vanilla extract.
Combine Mixtures:
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the custard mixture. Add raisins or sultanas if using. Mix with a fork until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to overmix.
Form Scones:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead just until the dough is smooth. Flatten the dough into a round disk about 1 inch thick, and use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut out scones.
Bake:
Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.
Serve:
Let the scones cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, ideally with a dollop of cream or extra Ultramel custard.
Tips for Perfection:
Cold Ingredients: Ensure the butter and Ultramel custard are cold for the flakiest scones.
Handling the Dough: Handle the dough as little as possible to prevent the gluten in the flour from developing, which would make the scones tough.
Variations:
Feel free to add other mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried cranberries to customize your scones.
These Ultramel scones offer a sweet and custardy twist on the traditional recipe, perfect for a luxurious breakfast or a delightful afternoon treat. Enjoy your baking!
