Irish Buttermilk Scones

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (preferably White Lily)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (add a little more if you like sweet scones or biscuits)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 4 ounces butter
• 1/2 cup low-fat buttermilk (a few extra tablespoons if necessary)
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon butter (melted to brush the tops of the scones)

Instructions

1. 1

   Pre-heat the oven to 425° F. Grease a large 12 inch cast iron skillet with butter.

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cream of tartar and salt.

3. 3

   Cube the butter and add to the flour. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.

4. 4

   Add the sugar and mix together.

5. 5

   Combine the buttermilk and heavy whipping cream. Add to the dry ingredients and combine until it just forms a dough.

6. 6

   Turn out onto a floured work surface, and gently fold and pat to form an oval about 3/4 inches thick. Cut rounds using a medium biscuit cutter. Gather the dough scraps and gently knead to create a few more scones.

7. 7

   Place the scones in the buttered cast iron skillet. Brush the top with melted butter.

8. 8

   Bake for 12 to 15 minutes in a 425° F oven, until the tops and bottoms are a light, golden brown.

9. 9

   Cool slightly before serving warm with butter.