Fluffy Homemade Amasi Scones
Ingredients
– 8 cups all-purpose flour
– 10 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 500 g baking margarine, cold and cut into cubes
– 3 large eggs
– 1 extra large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 2 cups amasi (or buttermilk)
– 2 teaspoons vanilla essence
Optional Add-Ins
– 1 cup raisins or currants
– 1 cup chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Grated lemon or orange zest
– Dried cranberries
– Chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line two baking trays with parchment paper or lightly grease them.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and sugar.
3. Add the cold baking margarine and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, amasi, and vanilla essence until well combined.
5. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
6. Fold in any optional ingredients, such as raisins or chocolate chips, if desired.
7. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured work surface and gently knead just until smooth.
8. Pat or roll the dough to approximately 2–3 cm (¾–1 inch) thick.
9. Cut out rounds using a biscuit or scone cutter and place them on the prepared baking trays, leaving a little space between each scone.
10. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to create a beautiful golden finish.
11. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the scones are well risen and golden brown.
12. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack for several minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with butter, strawberry jam, honey, marmalade, whipped cream, or cheese. These fluffy scones pair perfectly with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate and are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea.
Storage
Store completely cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy again, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven for a few minutes before serving.