The Best Scones in Ireland from Hayfield Manor

During a recent trip to Ireland, I traveled from north to south, from shore to shore, in the search of the perfect scone. And at Hayfield Manor, an ivy-clad estate within walking distance of the city center of Cork, I found it–the best scone I’d ever tasted. Freshly baked and oh-so-lightly browned, the scones are quite simply delicious. And the folks at Hayfield Manor know it, emphatically declaring that they have “perfected the art of scone making!” I completely agree.

They were generous in sharing the best-kept secret to scone making with me. And I now pass it along to you.

Hayfield Manor Scones

Ingredients

• 6.5oz cream flour
• 1.2oz white sugar
• 1.4oz butter (preferably salted)
• 1oz raisins
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2.9oz buttermilk
• 1 egg

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 356°F
2. Place all dry ingredients and butter in a mixer with a flat attachment and blend until it resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Add egg.
4. Add buttermilk.
5. Mix in raisins.
6. Roll out dough and use a scone/cookie cutter with 4cm diameter
7. To make the glaze for the scones, beat one egg and add a splash of milk. Brush the top of the scones with the egg wash.
8. Place on a tray and put into preheated oven for 17 minutes.
9. Enjoy with plenty of fresh cream and jam of your choice. If you’re feeling especially decadent, butter the scone first!