Light, fluffy, and buttery, these traditional Scottish Potato Scones are a comforting and delicious addition to any breakfast. Made with simple ingredients, they have a soft texture and a lightly crisp exterior when cooked. I love serving them warm with butter, jam, or as part of a full breakfast.
Why I Love This Recipe
Easy to make – With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly.
Great way to use leftovers – I often make these with leftover mashed potatoes for an effortless treat.
Versatile – They pair well with sweet or savory toppings, making them a perfect addition to any meal.
Soft and buttery – The combination of mashed potatoes and butter makes these scones incredibly tender.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons butter (melted)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Additional flour for rolling
Butter or oil for frying
Directions
In a mixing bowl, I combine the mashed potatoes, melted butter, salt, and baking powder.
I gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms.
On a lightly floured surface, I roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness.
I cut the dough into triangles or rounds using a knife or cookie cutter.
I heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
Cooking the scones for about 2-3 minutes per side, I wait until they turn golden brown.
I serve them warm with butter, jam, or alongside a full breakfast.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8 scones
Calories: 120 kcal per scone
Variations
Cheesy potato scones – I like adding a handful of grated cheddar cheese for extra flavor.
Herbed scones – Fresh herbs like chives or parsley bring a fresh twist.
Sweet version – A touch of sugar and cinnamon transforms these into a lightly sweet treat.
Gluten-free – I swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to make them celiac-friendly.
Spiced potato scones – Adding a pinch of black pepper or paprika gives them a little kick.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigeration: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: I freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: I warm them in a skillet over low heat, in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes, or in a toaster for a quick fix.
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FAQs
How do I keep potato scones from becoming too dense?
I make sure not to overwork the dough and use just enough flour to bring it together without making it too stiff.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, I sometimes prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before rolling and cooking.
What’s the best way to serve potato scones?
I love serving them warm with butter and jam, but they’re also great with eggs, bacon, or even smoked salmon.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
While fresh mashed potatoes are best, I sometimes use instant mashed potatoes as long as they’re thick and not too watery.
Why are my potato scones sticking to the pan?
If they’re sticking, I make sure my pan is properly heated and lightly greased before adding the scones.
Conclusion
Scottish potato scones are a simple yet delicious treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. With their soft, buttery texture and crisp edges, they pair well with both sweet and savory toppings. I love how easy they are to make, especially when using leftover mashed potatoes. Whether served with butter and jam or alongside a hearty breakfast, these scones never disappoint.
📖 Recipe:
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Potato Scones
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 scones
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Light, fluffy, and buttery, these traditional Scottish potato scones are a delicious addition to any breakfast. Made with simple ingredients, they have a soft interior with a lightly crisp exterior when cooked. Serve them warm with butter, jam, or as part of a full breakfast for a comforting treat.
Ingredients
2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons butter (melted)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Additional flour for rolling
Butter or oil for frying
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, melted butter, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about ¼-inch thickness.
- Cut the dough into triangles or rounds using a knife or cookie cutter.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
- Cook the scones for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Serve warm with butter, jam, or alongside a full breakfast.
Notes
For cheesy scones: Add ¼ cup grated cheddar cheese to the dough.
For herbed scones: Mix in chopped chives or parsley for extra flavor.
For a sweet version: Add 1 tbsp sugar and ½ tsp cinnamon to the dough.
For a gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Side Dish
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: Scottish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 scones
- Calories: 120 kcal
