Perfecting Your Tea or Coffee Time with Homemade Scones

Ingredients:

• 3 cups self-raising flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 2 teaspoons vanilla essence
• 200g ice-cold butter
• 1 cup Plain Yoghurt or Amasi (traditional fermented milk)
• 2 eggs + 1 extra for brushing the top

Instructions:

1. Begin by sieving the flour into a large mixing bowl, ensuring a smooth texture.
2. Incorporate all the dry ingredients—salt, baking powder, and sugar—mixing thoroughly to distribute evenly.
3. Cut the ice-cold butter into small cubes, then gently rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs, ensuring a flaky texture.
4. Add the eggs, vanilla essence, and half of the Plain Yoghurt, gradually incorporating them into the mixture. Adjust the amount of yoghurt as needed to achieve a soft, pliable dough.
5. Sprinkle a light layer of flour onto your work surface, then roll out the dough to your desired thickness. Using a cutter or the rim of a cup, cut the dough into uniform shapes.
6. Carefully transfer the cut scones onto a greased baking tray, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
7. Beat an egg and brush the tops of the scones, creating a golden sheen when baked.
8. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) and bake the scones for 15-20 minutes, or until they have risen and developed a beautiful golden-brown hue.
9. Once baked to perfection, allow the scones to cool slightly before serving, ensuring a tender, flaky interior with every bite.

Indulge in the simple pleasure of homemade scones, paired perfectly with your favorite tea or coffee, for an unforgettable culinary experience that embodies the essence of comfort and tradition.