Fried Scones

Sharing is caring!

Are you ready to indulge in a treat that’s crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside? If you’re a fan of sweet pastries, these fried scones will quickly steal your heart. Imagine biting into a warm, golden scone, slightly dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with honey—pure bliss! These delicious morsels are perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert. Let’s dive right into the details of making these delightful fried scones.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Fried scones are a wonderful blend of textures and flavors, making them a satisfying choice for any time of day. Unlike baked scones that can sometimes come out dry, frying gives these scones a rich, crispy exterior while maintaining that soft, tender interior. They’re incredibly versatile, allowing for various toppings and flavor combinations. Plus, they’re simple to prepare, making them an accessible treat that you can whip up in no time!

Ingredients

Below are the ingredients needed to make these scrumptious fried scones:

• 3 tablespoons warm water
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 cup hot water
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 quarts frying oil (peanut oil, safflower oil, or canola oil work well)

How To Make Fried Scones

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial, as it ensures that your scones will rise and have that light, airy texture.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the hot water, vegetable oil, salt, sugar, and the activated yeast mixture. Stir everything together until well combined, then beat in the egg until the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour

Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients. Start with 2 cups, mixing it in until a dough begins to form. Keep adding the remaining flour, a little at a time, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and is no longer sticky.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it. Knead the dough for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic. Be careful not to add too much extra flour, as you want the dough to remain soft.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This is an important step for developing flavor and texture.

Step 6: Shape the Scones

Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface to about ½-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles of dough. Gather the scraps and reroll to cut out additional scones.

Step 7: Heat the Oil

In a large, deep frying pan or Dutch oven, heat your frying oil over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot enough for frying but not smoking. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of dough into it—if it sizzles, you’re ready to cook!

Step 8: Fry the Scones

Carefully drop a few scones into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the scones and let them drain on paper towels.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooled slightly, you can dust the fried scones with powdered sugar, drizzle with honey or syrup, or enjoy them plain. Serve warm for the best experience!

Expert Tips

• Make sure your oil is at the correct temperature before frying. If it’s too cool, the scones will absorb too much oil; if it’s too hot, they will brown too quickly on the outside without cooking through.
• Don’t rush the rising time. A good rise is key to fluffy scones, so let the dough double in size properly.
• Feel free to experiment with flavorings by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for an extra kick.
• If you want to make your scones even richer, consider adding a tablespoon or two of melted butter to the wet ingredients.

Variations and Customizations

• Add chocolate chips or dried fruit to the dough for added texture and flavor.
• For a savory twist, mix in some shredded cheese and herbs like rosemary or thyme into the wet ingredients.
• Top your scones with a creamy glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a delightful sweetness.
• Try incorporating different extracts (like vanilla or almond) for unique flavor profiles.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover fried scones (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresher longer, you can also refrigerate them for about a week. For convenience, consider reheating them in an air fryer or toaster oven to revive their crispiness before serving.

FAQ

Can I bake these scones instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the scones instead of frying them! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the shaped scones on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.

What oil is best for frying these scones?

Peanut oil is a great choice for frying due to its high smoke point, but safflower or canola oil work well too. Ensure to avoid oils with low smoke points that could burn during frying.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

You can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and higher fiber content. However, since whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid, you may need to adjust the amount of liquid added for the right dough consistency.

Can I freeze fried scones for later use?

Absolutely! To freeze, allow the fried scones to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

There you have it—an irresistible recipe for fried scones that are perfect for any occasion! These scones are not only delicious but also highly customizable, allowing you to make them your own. Whether you opt for a sweet or savory version, these fried scones are sure to become a family favorite. Happy frying, and enjoy your delightful, golden treats!