The Great Bake: 5 Classic English Scones For Every Occasion

Maria Challis • September 11, 2025

There are few greater joys than pulling a tray of freshly baked scones out of the oven. Golden on top, fluffy in the middle, and practically demanding a generous dollop of jam and cream, they’re a true taste of comfort.

At James James Kitchens, we know that the best kitchens aren’t just about sleek design. They’re about creating the backdrop for life’s little rituals. And what could be more wonderfully British than the ritual of a scone, a cuppa, and a good natter?

From the plain and simple classics to fruity favourites and savoury delights, there’s a scone for every mood and occasion. In this article I have collated 5 different types of scones for you to bake.

Classic English scones with Jam and Cream

1. Plain Scones: The Quintessential Classic

The no-frills hero. Light, fluffy, and versatile, the plain scone is the perfect blank canvas. Whether you’re a jam-first or cream-first devotee (I won’t judge… much), the plain scone is proof that sometimes simple really is best.

My top tip: Handle the dough lightly and avoid over-kneading. This keeps them tall, fluffy, and not tough.

2. Currant or Raisin Scones: A Sweet Touch

Little bursts of fruitiness tucked into a buttery crumb? Yes please! These are the traditional stars of afternoon tea, especially when served warm enough that the butter melts as soon as it touches the scone. Old-fashioned? Maybe. Delicious? Always.

My top tip: Soak your dried fruit in a little warm tea or orange juice beforehand for extra plumpness and flavour.

3. Cheese Scones: Savoury Indulgence

Move over sweet tooth because cheese scones are here to steal the show. Sharp cheddar is the classic choice, but I love to experiment with Red Leicester or even a cheeky sprinkle of Parmesan. Perfect as a snack, with soup, or just on their own when nobody’s looking.

My top tip: Grate your cheese finely so it melts evenly through the dough, and save a little to sprinkle on top for a golden, cheesy crust.

4. Fruit-Free Flavoured Scones: A Twist on Tradition

Not keen on dried fruit? No problem. These days, scones come in all sorts of flavours. Zesty orange, rich vanilla, even chocolate chips. A little less traditional, a little more playful, and absolutely perfect with a pot of tea.

My top tip: Add zest, extracts, or chocolate chips right at the mixing stage, but fold gently so the dough doesn’t toughen.

Alternative scone idea by James James Kitchens with a cup of coffee

5. Herb Scones: Fragrant and Unique

Rosemary, thyme, chives. Herbs can turn a humble scone into something you’d happily serve at a dinner party. Savoury, sophisticated, and with a fragrance that fills the kitchen, they’re a treat that feels just a little bit extra special.

My top tip: Use fresh herbs if you can, and chop them finely to release more flavour without overwhelming the crumb.

Why We’ll Always Love Scones

Part of the magic of scones is how quick and easy they are. These are the ingredients you always need to have stocked up in your kitchen so that you can turn a grey afternoon into a golden one, or invite some friends round spontaneously for a little afternoon tea.

The six base ingredients to any kind of scone:

Self raising flour
Butter
Caster sugar
Milk
Egg
Salt

And that’s what we love most at James James Kitchens: creating kitchens that aren’t just beautiful, but places where these small, joyful moments happen. Because it’s never just about the scone. It’s about the warmth, the chatter, and the memories made while the kettle’s on.

Sip and Support: A Scone-Off with a Difference

Speaking of chatter (and scones!), we’re thrilled to be hosting Sip and Support on Friday 26th September 2025 from 11AM - 3PM at James James Kitchens. It’s an afternoon dedicated to community, charity, and of course, a spot of baking mischief.

We’ll be raising money for two brilliant charities. Macmillan Cancer Support and North West Cancer Research. And the afternoon will of course include a good old-fashioned Scone Off. Think of it as our very own bake-off, where local bakers bring their best scones to the table. Sweet, savoury, traditional, or quirky. It’s anyone’s game.

So, whether you’re partial to a cheese scone or can’t resist one packed with currants, we’d love for you to join us. Expect plenty of flavour, lots of laughter, and the warm fuzzy feeling that comes from doing something good, both for yourself and for others.

After all, nothing brings people together quite like tea, scones, and a little healthy competition.

You can also donate via these links:

Macmillan Cancer Support

North West Cancer Research