Rhubarb & Custard Scones

Discover the perfect blend of tangy rhubarb and creamy custard in these irresistible Rhubarb & Custard Scones. Combining the slight tartness of fresh rhubarb with the smooth sweetness of custard cream, this treat offers a unique twist on traditional scones that’s both comforting and delightfully unexpected. Whether for a cozy afternoon tea or a special breakfast, Rhubarb & Custard Scones bring a burst of flavor and a lovely moist texture that will keep you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Pairing: Tangy rhubarb perfectly balances with rich custard, offering a delightful taste you won’t find in everyday scones.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses easy-to-find pantry staples that anyone can whip up quickly.
• Moist and Tender: The custard infusion keeps the scones soft and fluffy without being dry.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for breakfast, tea-time, or even a light dessert.
• Easy to Customize: You can tweak the recipe based on your preference for sweetness or tartness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Rhubarb & Custard Scones rely on simple, high-quality ingredients that come together to create a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Each component plays an important role—from the sharpness of rhubarb to the creaminess of custard—making the final product irresistible.

• Fresh Rhubarb: Provides the signature tartness and vibrant color.
• Custard Powder or Prepared Custard: Adds creamy sweetness and moisture to the dough.
• Self-Raising Flour: Gives the scones their fluffy rise and soft crumb texture.
• Butter: Cold and cubed, it creates a flaky, tender scone texture.
• Milk or Buttermilk: Moistens the dough and contributes to tenderness.
• Caster Sugar: Sweetens the scones subtly without overpowering the rhubarb’s brightness.
• Egg (optional): Helps bind and enrich the dough for a golden finish.
• Baking Powder: Ensures an extra lift and lightness.

Variations for Rhubarb & Custard Scones

Feel free to personalize your Rhubarb & Custard Scones to suit your dietary preferences or taste buds. This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, making it easy to create endless delicious versions by swapping a few ingredients or adding extras.

• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and a flax egg to make these scones dairy-free.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free baking blend for those with sensitivities.
• Added Texture: Toss in chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
• Fruit Mix: Mix in other seasonal fruits such as strawberries or raspberries alongside the rhubarb.
• Spiced Twist: Add cinnamon or ginger powder to complement the tart rhubarb and creamy custard notes.

How to Make Rhubarb & Custard Scones

Step 1: Prepare the Rhubarb

Trim and chop fresh rhubarb into small pieces, then toss with a bit of sugar to soften the tartness. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the dough.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine self-raising flour, custard powder, caster sugar, and baking powder. Sift together to ensure even distribution and a light texture.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. This step ensures flaky layers in the scones.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in the milk (or buttermilk) gradually while gently mixing. If you’re using an egg, whisk it in with the milk before adding. Stir until just combined — the dough should be soft but not sticky.

Step 5: Fold in the Rhubarb

Gently incorporate the chopped rhubarb into the dough, taking care not to overmix to maintain the scones’ light texture.

Step 6: Shape and Cut

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and pat it roughly into a 2cm-thick round. Use a round cutter to stamp out scone shapes and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Step 7: Bake

Brush the scones with a little milk or beaten egg for a golden top, then bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 12-15 minutes until risen and lightly browned.

Pro Tips for Making Rhubarb & Custard Scones

• Keep Ingredients Cold: Ensuring your butter and liquids are chilled helps create a flaky scone texture.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Handle the dough gently to avoid tough scones.
• Use Fresh Rhubarb: Fresh rhubarb brings the best vibrant flavor, but frozen can be used if fresh isn’t available—just drain excess moisture.
• Custard Powder Quality: Choose a good-quality custard powder for a richer, creamier taste.
• Bake Immediately: To get the best rise, place scones in the oven as soon as they are shaped.

How to Serve Rhubarb & Custard Scones

Garnishes

Top these scones with a light dusting of icing sugar or a drizzle of extra custard sauce for an extra indulgent touch that highlights the sweet and tangy flavors.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside clotted cream or fresh whipped cream and a pot of your favorite tea to elevate the experience, making it a perfect tea-time treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange on a rustic wooden board with swirls of homemade strawberry jam and a small bowl of custard for dipping — ideal for sharing at brunch or parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Rhubarb & Custard Scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, preserving their freshness and soft texture.

Freezing

Wrap scones individually in cling film or foil, then place in a freezer bag. They freeze well for up to three months, making them perfect for future cravings.

Reheating

To enjoy the best texture, reheat frozen or stored scones in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and lightly crisp on the outside.

FAQs

Can I use frozen rhubarb for Rhubarb & Custard Scones?

Yes, frozen rhubarb works well but be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture to avoid soggy dough.

Is custard powder necessary, or can I use prepared custard?

You can substitute prepared custard for custard powder, just reduce the liquid in the recipe slightly to maintain dough consistency.

Can I make these scones dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives to create a dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.

How long do Rhubarb & Custard Scones keep fresh?

They are best eaten within two days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature to retain their moist texture.

What is the best way to serve these scones?

Serve slightly warm with clotted cream, jam, or extra custard sauce for a delightful experience.

Final Thoughts

If you love scones but want to try something refreshingly different, these Rhubarb & Custard Scones are an absolute must. Their perfect blend of tangy rhubarb and creamy custard makes for a unique and delicious treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. Grab your ingredients and bake a batch — your taste buds will thank you!

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