Irish scones are particularly popular in Ireland. Made from raisins, this cake actually originated in Scotland, but has literally been adopted by the Irish (and English) for centuries!
Since then, Ireland has come up with its own variation, and believe it or not, it’s a national culinary treasure! In fact, you can find them everywhere on the Emerald Isle, from bakeries and tea rooms to Irish thatched cottages!
Dip them in your tea or coffee at snack time… for an intense moment of indulgence!
Irish scones – © neillangan
Irish scones are more than just an accompaniment to tea; they’re a symbol of Irish hospitality.
With their roots deeply rooted in Irish culinary culture, these fluffy, slightly sweet pastries are a treat for the taste buds.
These Irish scones are typically eaten with afternoon tea or, more rarely, breakfast. Their basic ingredients include flour, butter, sugar, milk or buttermilk, baking powder, and sometimes raisins or fruit.
They are most often eaten plain, but for added indulgence, they are garnished with cream (called “clotted cream”).
clotted cream
“They taste like a dense brioche bun, and go perfectly with Irish tea! Perfect for warming up on a rainy day!
It has to be said that the combination of tea and the sweet texture of a scone is a delight close to heaven: it will plunge you into a world of softness and warmth, perfect for getting rid of the Irish humidity! Ideal for refreshments after a day of Irish exploration, it’s also an ultra-comfortable and convivial snack!
Irish scones are quick and easy to prepare, making them a popular choice for quick meals or snacks in Ireland.
Very easy to make, they take no more than 20 minutes to prepare, and call on ingredients that are easy to find and don’t cost much.
They’ll give you a king’s snack, and even the pickiest gourmets will be seduced! They are generally suitable for adults and children alike!
The main difference between Irish and English scones lies in their texture and ingredients. Irish scones tend to be softer and slightly denser, often made with buttermilk, which gives them a distinctive texture.
English scones, on the other hand, are generally airier and can have a texture closer to that of American cookies.
English scones are also often served with clotted cream and jam, especially as part of the traditional English cream tea, while Irish scones are more commonly eaten with butter or simply plain.
At the heart of Irish culture, scones are much more than a simple delicacy; they’re a symbol of conviviality and sharing. In Irish homes, preparing and serving scones is often associated with a warm welcome to guests, reflecting the island’s legendary hospitality.
These delicacies are frequently at the center of family gatherings, feasts and celebrations, where they are shared over a cup of tea, creating moments of conviviality and conversation.
The scone tradition is also passed down from generation to generation, with each family often having its own “secret” recipe. Passing on recipes and preparation techniques is a way of preserving and celebrating Ireland’s culinary heritage.
Scones symbolize union, continuity of tradition and the richness of Irish culture, where food is much more than just a meal: it’s an expression of love, care and community.
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