Cool weather, books and scones

Cool weather in our house means baking time (lots and lots) and what better time than mid afternoon for tea scones? My favourite scones recipe hails from Ireland and just in case you have not tried these, let me say they are not only traditional but they also turn out perfect no matter your culinary expertise (or lack of as in my case...).

Irish scones ingredients:

• 1/2 stick/50g butter
• 2 cups /225g all-purpose flour
• 3 tsps baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 pint / 150 ml milk
• 1 egg beaten with a little milk

To prepare:

Heat the oven to 450F/230C/Gas 8

• Grease and flour a baking sheet.
• Rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
• Make a well in the center and stir in enough milk to make a soft dough.
• Turn the mixture on to a floured board and knead lightly, roll out to 2/cm / 3/4 inch thick.
• Cut into triangles with a sharp knife.
• Place on the baking tray and bake near the top of the hot oven for 8 - 10 minutes until golden brown and well risen.
• Cool on a wire rack.
• Split and fill with ham or cream and voila.
  

Enjoy!

The evening is here and of course, this is the best time to peruse the bookshelves for a new book or just continue with the next chapter of a well loved classic.

Until the next time...