Mary Berry’s Wholemeal Scones are a delicious, wholesome twist on the traditional British scone. Known for her comforting, accessible approach to baking, Mary Berry’s recipe incorporates wholemeal flour, giving the scones a heartier texture and richer flavor compared to standard white scones. The wholemeal flour not only adds a pleasant nutty undertone but also increases the nutritional value, providing a touch more fiber. These scones are perfect for a variety of occasions-whether enjoyed with a pot of tea in the afternoon, served alongside a hearty soup, or simply as a delicious snack.
The scones are light yet satisfying, with a slightly crumbly texture on the outside and a soft, airy interior. While they maintain the signature British scone form, this recipe offers a slightly healthier alternative without sacrificing the indulgent charm that comes with freshly baked scones.
Mary Berry’s Wholemeal Scones Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To make Mary Berry’s Wholemeal Scones, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Wholemeal Flour (250g) – This is the base of the scone, offering a denser, nuttier flavor compared to regular white flour. The wholemeal flour adds a rustic quality that makes these scones feel more substantial.
- Self-Raising Flour (250g) – The inclusion of self-raising flour ensures that the scones rise beautifully without needing added yeast or additional leavening agents. This gives them the light and airy texture that scones are known for.
- Baking Powder (1 tsp) – While the self-raising flour does most of the work, the extra baking powder provides a little additional lift and lightness to the dough.
- Cold Butter (75g) – Cold butter is essential for achieving a flaky texture. The butter is rubbed into the flour, creating small pockets that will result in a tender crumb once baked.
- Caster Sugar (1 tbsp) – Just a small amount of sugar adds a slight sweetness to the scones without overpowering the natural nutty flavors from the wholemeal flour.
- Milk (about 200ml) – The milk is used to bring the dough together. Depending on the consistency, you may need a little more or less milk to achieve the right dough texture.
- Egg (1, for glazing) – Beaten egg is used to brush the tops of the scones before baking, giving them a golden, shiny finish.
Equipment Needed
To make these scones, here’s the equipment you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowl – For combining the dry ingredients and cutting in the butter. A large mixing bowl allows enough space to work with the dough comfortably.
- Pastry Cutter or Your Fingers – For rubbing the cold butter into the flour. A pastry cutter is the ideal tool for this task, but you can also use your fingertips if necessary.
- Rolling Pin – To gently roll out the dough to the right thickness for cutting your scones.
- Scone Cutter – Typically a round cutter, about 5cm (2 inches) in diameter, to cut the scones into perfect rounds. If you don’t have a scone cutter, a glass or other round object can work in a pinch.
- Baking Tray – For placing the scones before they go into the oven. It’s a good idea to line the tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Pastry Brush – To brush the beaten egg onto the scones, ensuring that they bake to a beautiful golden color.
- Oven – A preheated oven at around 220°C (200°C for fan ovens), which is essential for a quick, even rise that creates light and fluffy scones.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Wholemeal Scones
Step 1: Prepare The Oven And Baking Tray
Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C for fan ovens) or 425°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to ensure that your scones don’t stick to the tray.
Step 2: Sift The Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift the wholemeal flour and self-raising flour together. Sifting helps to remove any lumps and ensures the flour is light and airy. Add the baking powder to the flour mixture and stir to combine.
Step 3: Rub In The Butter
Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add it to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. This step is key to achieving a light, flaky texture in your scones.
Step 4: Add The Sugar
Stir in the caster sugar, which will add just a hint of sweetness to your scones.
Step 5: Add The Milk
Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the milk. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until the mixture just comes together to form a soft dough. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can result in tough scones.
Step 6: Roll Out The Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently roll it out to about 2.5 cm (1 inch) thickness. Take care not to overwork the dough-handle it as little as possible to maintain the light texture.
Step 7: Cut Out The Scones
Using a scone cutter or a round glass, cut out the scones from the dough. Try to avoid twisting the cutter, as this can prevent the scones from rising properly. Re-roll any scraps of dough and cut out additional scones.
Step 8: Glaze And Bake
Place the scones onto the prepared baking tray, ensuring that they are close together but not touching. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a glossy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the scones have risen and are golden brown on top.
Step 9: Cool And Serve
Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack. Serve warm, split open with butter, jam, or clotted cream for an authentic treat.
Tips And Tricks
- Use Cold Butter: Make sure your butter is cold. This is crucial for achieving a light, flaky texture. If your butter is too soft, the scones will become greasy and dense.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: The key to soft, fluffy scones is handling the dough as little as possible. Once you add the milk, mix just until it comes together-overmixing will create tough scones.
- Proper Glazing: Brushing the scones with beaten egg helps them achieve that golden, glossy finish, but don’t overdo it. A light brushing will suffice.
- Add Extras: Feel free to customize your scones by adding dried fruits like raisins or currants, or even nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Check the Oven Temperature: Scones bake quickly, so it’s important to preheat your oven properly and use the correct temperature. If they are left in the oven too long, they can dry out.
Mary Berry’s Wholemeal Scones offer a wholesome and flavorful alternative to the classic scone. With the use of wholemeal flour, you get a scone that’s slightly denser but still wonderfully soft and crumbly on the inside. This recipe is perfect for those who want a little more fiber in their baking without compromising on taste. Whether served with a dollop of jam and clotted cream or enjoyed on their own, these scones are sure to impress. The recipe is straightforward, and with a few simple tips, you can create perfect scones every time. Happy baking!
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Wholemeal Scones
Mary Berry’s Wholemeal Scones are a staple in British baking, combining hearty, nutty wholemeal flour with a light, fluffy texture. However, this basic recipe can be easily adapted to suit a variety of tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun and creative variations that will add a twist to this classic:
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Fruit and Nut Scones
For a sweet and nutty version, add dried fruits like raisins, sultanas, or cranberries to the dough. You can also include chopped nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts for added texture and flavor. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg will complement the sweetness of the fruit and add warmth to the scones.
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Cheese and Herb Scones
Swap the sugar for a pinch of salt and add grated cheese-cheddar works wonderfully, but you could also try Stilton for a richer flavor. Fresh herbs such as chives, rosemary, or thyme can be stirred in to bring an aromatic and savory twist to the scones. These are perfect for serving with soups or as a snack on their own.
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Orange and Almond Scones
To bring a refreshing citrus element to your scones, add orange zest to the dough. Ground almonds not only enhance the flavor but also give the scones a finer texture. These scones can be served with marmalade or even a simple drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
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Vegan Wholemeal Scones
For a vegan-friendly twist, substitute the butter with plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Instead of using milk, opt for almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. A flax egg (one tablespoon of ground flaxseeds mixed with three tablespoons of water) can replace the regular egg in the recipe. With these simple swaps, you can create a delicious vegan scone that maintains the same light texture.
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Chocolate Chip Scones
For a decadent variation, mix in a handful of dark or milk chocolate chips. The slightly bitter taste of wholemeal flour balances the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a rich and indulgent treat. You could even drizzle melted chocolate over the scones once baked for an extra indulgent touch.
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Scones with Lemon and Poppy Seeds
Brighten up your scones with the zesty combination of lemon and poppy seeds. Add freshly grated lemon zest and a tablespoon of poppy seeds into the dough for a delicate crunch. This variation pairs wonderfully with a dollop of clotted cream and a cup of tea.
Each of these variations maintains the core structure and flavors of Mary Berry’s original recipe but gives you the flexibility to experiment with new textures and tastes. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or vegan, there’s an easy twist to make these scones uniquely your own!
Storing Leftovers
Mary Berry’s Wholemeal Scones are undeniably best when freshly baked, their texture light and airy with a slight crumble. However, if you have leftovers, it’s essential to store them properly to keep them from becoming too dry or stale. Here’s a detailed guide on how to store your scones so they remain as delicious as when they were first made.
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Room Temperature Storage (For Short-Term Use)
If you plan to eat the scones within the next day or two, storing them at room temperature is your best option. Simply place the cooled scones in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in a clean kitchen towel to prevent them from drying out. The key here is to keep air exposure to a minimum while still allowing the scones to breathe so they don’t become too moist. Keep the container in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight.
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Freezing Scones (For Long-Term Storage)
If you’ve made a large batch of scones and want to enjoy them over time, freezing is a great option. Begin by letting the scones cool completely to room temperature. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking tray and place them in the freezer for 1-2 hours until they are firm. This helps prevent the scones from sticking together once frozen. After they’re frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Scones can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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Reheating Scones
When you’re ready to eat your leftover scones, reheating them is an easy way to restore some of that fresh-baked flavor and texture. For scones stored at room temperature, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes. This will warm them up and restore some of their crispness. For frozen scones, you have two options:
- Direct Baking from Frozen: Place the frozen scones on a baking tray and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 12-15 minutes.
- Thawing First: If you prefer, thaw the frozen scones in the fridge overnight and then reheat them in the oven for 5-10 minutes.
By following these steps, you can enjoy your scones long after they’ve been baked, without sacrificing too much on texture or flavor.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Wholemeal Scones?
While delicious on their own, Mary Berry’s Wholemeal Scones truly shine when paired with a variety of spreads, toppings, and accompaniments. Here are a few ideas to elevate your scone experience:
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Clotted Cream and Jam
The classic pairing for British scones, clotted cream and jam are a must. For an authentic experience, use strawberry or raspberry jam, but you could also experiment with more exotic flavors like apricot or blackberry. The creamy texture of clotted cream and the sweet, tangy jam complement the nutty flavor of the wholemeal scones perfectly. If you’re feeling particularly indulgent, try a little of both!
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Butter and Honey
For a simple yet satisfying option, spread a generous layer of butter on your scone while it’s still warm. Then, drizzle honey over the top. The combination of rich, salty butter with the natural sweetness of honey creates a perfect balance. It’s a comforting treat, ideal for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
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Cheese and Pickles
For a savory twist, serve your wholemeal scones with slices of mature cheddar cheese and a tangy pickle or chutney. This makes for a satisfying snack or lunch, especially when paired with a cup of tea. You could also add some salad greens or a few slices of ham for an easy, light meal.
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Fresh Fruit and Cream
If you want something a bit more fresh, try topping your scones with whipped cream and fresh seasonal fruit such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The cream adds richness while the fruit provides a refreshing contrast to the dense wholemeal base.
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Egg and Bacon
For a hearty breakfast or brunch, you could use your wholemeal scones as a base for an open sandwich. Top a split scone with a fried egg, crispy bacon, and a touch of avocado or tomato. This savory option is filling and full of flavor, perfect for those with a bigger appetite.
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Yogurt and Granola
For a lighter, healthier alternative, top your scone with a dollop of thick Greek yogurt and sprinkle some granola or seeds on top. Add a drizzle of honey or a few fresh berries to complete the ensemble. This makes for a delightful breakfast or mid-afternoon snack that’s packed with protein and fiber.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Wholemeal Scones are a fantastic, versatile treat that anyone can make and enjoy. Whether you prefer to stick to the classic recipe or explore one of the many easy variations, these scones can easily be adapted to suit all kinds of tastes. Their nutty, wholesome flavor pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory toppings, making them an ideal addition to any tea time, breakfast, or snack. By following a few simple storage tips, you can ensure that your scones remain fresh for days, or even months, to come. And with endless ways to enjoy them-whether with jam, clotted cream, cheese, or fresh fruit-Mary Berry’s Wholemeal Scones are a true British classic that will never go out of style.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Wholemeal Scones?
For Mary Berry’s wholemeal scones, you will need 250g of wholemeal self-raising flour, 50g of butter, 1 tablespoon of caster sugar, 150ml of milk, and a pinch of salt. Optionally, you can add a small amount of baking powder to ensure the scones rise properly.
How Do I Achieve Light And Fluffy Scones Using Mary Berry’s Wholemeal Scones Recipe?
To achieve light and fluffy scones, it’s crucial not to overwork the dough. Gently rub the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs, and avoid over-mixing when adding the milk. Also, ensure that your oven is preheated to the correct temperature (220°C/200°C fan) to help the scones rise quickly. Once you shape the dough, cut out the scones with a sharp cutter to prevent them from becoming tough.
Can I Make Mary Berry’s Wholemeal Scones Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can make Mary Berry’s wholemeal scones ahead of time. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container for up to two days. Alternatively, you can freeze the scones after baking, and when ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their freshness.
