Name: Earl Grey Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: ½ cup boiling water; 4 Earl Grey tea bags (3 to steep, 1 for the dough); ½ cup unsalted butter (frozen and grated); 2 cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2½ teaspoons baking powder; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ cup sour cream (cold); 1 large egg (cold); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1¼ cups powdered sugar; 3-4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract; Optional garnish: lemon zest or candied lemon slices

Print Recipe·4 from 6 reviews

There’s something truly magical about the combination of delicate tea flavors with a burst of citrus in a light, fluffy baked treat. This Earl Grey Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe perfectly captures that magic, bringing together the fragrant notes of Earl Grey tea and the zingy brightness of lemon in a way that’s warm, comforting, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a cozy afternoon tea or just craving a special homemade snack, these scones are guaranteed to become a fast favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of several baking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. On the top right is a white bowl filled with white flour. Below it, there is a white plate holding a large pile of finely shredded white cheese. In the center right, a clear glass measuring cup contains dark liquid with three tea bags steeping in it, each with a tag string hanging over the edge. To the bottom left of the measuring cup is a single white egg. Below the egg is a copper measuring cup filled and level with smooth white cream cheese. Above the egg and next to the measuring cup is an orange packet of Twinings Earl Grey tea. Above the tea packet are two metal measuring cups, one filled with white granulated sugar and the other smaller with white baking powder. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but play an essential role in creating the perfect texture and flavor for your scones. From the fragrant Earl Grey tea to the creamy sour cream and tangy lemon for the glaze, every component works in harmony to bring this delightful recipe to life.

½ cup boiling water: To steep the Earl Grey tea and infuse the scones with that signature bergamot aroma.
4 Earl Grey tea bags (3 to steep, 1 for the dough): The star flavor, offering fragrant and citrusy notes throughout.
½ cup unsalted butter (frozen and grated): Frozen butter creates flaky layers when blended into the dough.
2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb.
½ cup granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to balance the tea and lemon.
2½ teaspoons baking powder: The leavening agent that makes the scones rise beautifully.
¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
½ cup sour cream (cold): Adds moisture and a subtle tang, contributing to soft scones.
1 large egg (cold): Binds ingredients together and enriches the dough.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
1¼ cups powdered sugar: For a sweet and smooth lemon glaze topping.
3-4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brightens the glaze with zesty citrus flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract: Enhances the glaze with subtle vanilla notes.

How to Make Earl Grey Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Steep the Earl Grey Tea

Start by boiling the water and steeping three Earl Grey tea bags in the ½ cup of hot water for about 10 minutes. This concentrated tea infusion is key to imparting that unmistakable bergamot flavor to your scones. Once steeped, make sure to wring out the tea bags thoroughly to extract every drop of fragrant liquid before setting aside the tea to chill in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter and Dry Ingredients

While your tea chills, grate the frozen butter using a box grater – this technique is a wonderful trick to get flaky, tender layers in your scones. Pop the grated butter back in the fridge to keep it cold. Then, in a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, kosher salt, and the contents of the remaining Earl Grey tea bag, which will add an extra subtle tea scent in the dough.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients and Combine

In a separate bowl, whisk together the chilled steeped tea, cold sour cream, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the cold grated butter to your dry ingredients and toss to combine so the butter bits get evenly distributed. Pour in your wet mixture and use a wooden spoon to stir gently until the dough just starts to come together.

Step 4: Form the Dough and Cut the Scones

Switch to using your hands to quickly gather the dough into a ball, taking care not to overwork it to keep the texture light. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and gently press it into a circle roughly 7 to 8 inches wide and about an inch thick. Using a bench scraper or sharp knife, cut this circle into 8 equal wedges, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Keep the pieces close together so they help each other rise evenly.

Step 5: Freeze and Bake

Pop the tray of scones into the freezer while you preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Freezing the scones before baking locks in their shape and texture. Bake them for 16 to 18 minutes until they are beautifully golden and fragrant. Let them cool on the pan, which helps them set perfectly before you add the glaze.

Step 6: Prepare the Lemon Glaze and Finish

Whisk together the powdered sugar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and vanilla until you create a thick, luscious glaze. The consistency can be adjusted by adding more sugar or lemon juice to get it just right – thick enough to spread but not runny. Spoon a generous dollop of the glaze onto each cooled scone and spread it over the top. For an extra special touch, sprinkle a pinch of lemon zest or garnish with candied lemon slices to brighten up every bite.

How to Serve Earl Grey Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Eight triangular scones arranged in a circle on light brown parchment paper placed on a white marbled surface. Each scone is beige with a slightly rough and crumbly textured top sprinkled lightly with flour. The scones have visible small specks throughout, indicating added ingredients like seeds or grains. The scones are thick and evenly sized, with straight edges and slightly rounded tips, creating a balanced radial pattern. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh lemon zest or thin slices of candied lemon go wonderfully on top, adding both color and a burst of citrus aroma that complements the tea base perfectly. You can also sprinkle a little dried Earl Grey tea leaves for a rustic appearance and an extra hint of bergamot fragrance.

Side Dishes

These scones shine with a simple pat of clotted cream or a dollop of your favorite lemon curd to amplify the tartness. Pair with a pot of freshly brewed Earl Grey tea or a light green tea to keep the flavors harmonious. For an elegant tea party, some fresh berries or a small platter of assorted cheeses can round out the experience beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving these scones on a tiered cake stand instantly elevates them for special occasions. You can also package them individually wrapped with a lemon twist ribbon for delightful gifts. For brunch, try layering scone wedges with whipped cream and lemon zest in a large mason jar to create an eye-catching dessert parfait.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover scones, store them in an airtight container at room temperature where they will keep their soft texture for up to two days. Avoid refrigerating as it can dry them out.

Freezing

These scones freeze exceptionally well, either before or after baking. Freeze the cut dough wedges on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a resealable bag to save space. After baking, freeze cooled scones wrapped individually to prevent freezer burn. They last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

To enjoy your scones fresh again, warm them gently in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 7 minutes, or toast them lightly in a toaster oven. Avoid microwaving to keep that flaky exterior crisp and the inside tender.

FAQs

Can I use loose leaf Earl Grey tea instead of tea bags?

Absolutely! Use about 2 tablespoons of loose leaf Earl Grey to steep in boiling water instead of tea bags, then strain the leaves out before using the liquid in your recipe. It will give the same wonderful bergamot flavor.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

If you don’t have sour cream, plain Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative that will still provide the moisture and slight tanginess needed for fluffy scones.

Can I make these scones dairy-free?

Yes, you can replace unsalted butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and swap sour cream for a plant-based yogurt or coconut cream. The flavor won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be delicious.

How do I make the lemon glaze less tart?

Simply add more powdered sugar to your glaze if you prefer a sweeter finish. You can also reduce the lemon juice slightly to adjust the balance to your taste.

Is it okay to overmix the dough?

It’s best to mix just until the dough comes together. Overmixing can develop the gluten too much, resulting in tougher scones rather than light and tender ones.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like enjoying warm, homemade scones infused with the elegant aroma of Earl Grey tea and bright, sunny lemon glaze. This Earl Grey Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe is truly a rewarding treat to make from scratch, and sharing it with loved ones makes it even more special. I hope you give it a try and fall in love with these scones just like I have—they’re sure to bring a little extra joy to your day!