Scones with strawberry jam and clotted cream

Best served still warm from the oven, scones are a classic teatime treat and are so easy to make.

Preparation method

1. For the jam, heat the sugar, lemon juice and three tablespoons water in a large pan, slowly, until the sugar has melted. Add the strawberries and stir gently. Bring the jam up to the boil and cook for 3-4 minutes or up to 10 minutes if you prefer a thicker jam. Remove from the heat, allow to cool slightly, then pour into sterilised jars and allow to cool completely.

2. Preheat the oven to 220C/425F/Gas 7.

3. Sift together the flour, baking powder and salt into a bowl then add the butter and rub into the flour, creating a fine breadcrumb consistency.

4. Add the sugar and two eggs, lightly beaten, and mix well. Add the milk, a little at a time, working with a wooden spoon to form a smooth dough.

5. Roll on a lightly floured work surface until 2cm/¾in thick. Dip a 5cm/2in pastry cutter into the flour then stamp out rounds from the dough, using one sharp tap and not twisting the dough as you cut – twisting the scone mix will result in an uneven rising.

6. Re-roll the leftover dough and cut out more scones until all the dough has been used.

7. Flip the scones over and place onto a baking tray. Brush the beaten egg yolks over the top of the scones, taking care not to let any run over the edges.

8. Place the scones on a greased baking tray and bake in the pre-heated oven for 10-12 minutes until golden-brown.

9. Allow to cool slightly, then serve while still warm with strawberry jam, butter and clotted cream.

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