Name: Buttermilk Chocolate Chip Scones Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 2 cups Self-Rising Flour; 1 cup Dairy-Free Yogurt; 1 cup Red Lentils (dry, rinsed under cold water); 1 1/3 cups Vegetable Stock; 1/3 cup Mild-Flavor Olive Oil; 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1 teaspoon Italian Herbs; 1 1/2 cups Spinach (finely chopped); 1/2 cup Sundried Tomatoes (not stored in oil); 3/4 cup Sunflower Seeds; 1/3 cup Nutritional Yeast (or 1/2 cup Vegan Cheddar)

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I absolutely love sharing recipes that bring a good balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition to the table, and while this recipe I’m about to tell you is not the traditional Buttermilk Chocolate Chip Scones Recipe, it’s something that has won me over with its wholesome, hearty character and surprising ease. Think protein-rich biscuits with a tender crumb and a beautiful golden crust, perfect for breakfast or a savory snack. I can’t wait to walk you through this delightful baking experience.

Why You'll Love This Buttermilk Chocolate Chip Scones Recipe

What really excites me about this Buttermilk Chocolate Chip Scones Recipe is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The buttermilk provides a subtle tang that pairs so beautifully with the rich bursts of chocolate chips, creating a treat that’s both tender and satisfying. I love how the scones manage to be soft inside with that classic flaky exterior, reminiscent of a cozy café morning. Every bite feels like a little indulgence, but one that’s simple enough to make any day feel special.

Besides the taste, I find this recipe incredibly approachable. It uses straightforward ingredients and doesn’t require any complex techniques, which makes it a fantastic option whether you're a seasoned baker or trying scones for the first time. I often whip these up for family breakfasts, weekend brunches, or even afternoon tea with friends because they’re quick enough that I don’t need to plan days ahead. Plus, the aroma while baking is absolutely irresistible! These scones truly stand out whenever I share them because they deliver big on flavor without needing fuss.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows a white saucepan filled with a thick, orange mashed mixture, which looks smooth with some small lumps. A wooden spoon rests inside the pan, partially covered by the orange mash as if stirring it. The saucepan sits on a wooden board placed on a white marbled surface. The color of the mash is warm and rich, taking up almost all the space inside the pan. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this Buttermilk Chocolate Chip Scones Recipe are delightfully simple but each plays an essential role in creating the perfect scone. From the tangy buttermilk to the rich chocolate chips, every component contributes to the final taste, texture, and even color, ensuring your scones come out tender, fluffy, and irresistibly chocolatey.

Quick Tip

All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below

Self-Rising Flour: This forms the base of the scone and helps achieve a fluffy, tender crumb with its built-in leavening.
Buttermilk: Adds a pleasant tang and moisture, making the scones tender and rich without weighing them down.
Butter (cold): Critical for flaky layers; when worked into the dough, it creates those delicious pockets of tender crumb.
Sugar: Just the right amount to balance the tang of buttermilk and enhance the chocolate flavor.
Chocolate Chips: The star of the show—choose your favorite bittersweet or semi-sweet for melty, sweet pockets in every bite.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile.
Egg: Provides structure and richness that keeps the scones tender but firm.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Help the scones rise beautifully and get that perfect golden crust.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Chilling your baking sheet in the fridge beforehand can help promote that signature scone crust.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. This is where I like to sift them to make sure everything is evenly combined and airy for the best texture.

Step 3: Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized bits of butter visible. This step is key for flaky layers, so take your time.

Step 4: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. This wet mixture will bind the dough and add moisture.

Step 5: Make a well in the dry ingredients and gently pour in the wet ingredients. Fold them together carefully with a spatula until the dough just begins to come together.

Step 6: Then fold in the chocolate chips, being careful not to over-mix. Too much mixing can make the scones tough, and I want them tender and light.

Step 7: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick. I like to use my hands rather than a rolling pin to keep the dough fluffy and not overworked.

Step 8: Cut the circle into 8 wedges and transfer them to your prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

Step 9: Brush the tops with a little buttermilk or beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish. Then bake for 12–15 minutes or until the scones are puffed and golden brown.

Step 10: Let the scones cool on a wire rack for a few minutes—the warm comfort from these still-warm scones is perfect for enjoying fresh from the oven.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 8 delicious scones, perfect for sharing with family or a small group of friends. Preparation time is around 15 minutes, with an additional 12 to 15 minutes of baking. Including resting and cooling, you’re looking at roughly 30 to 35 minutes from start to finish—ideal for a quick weekend baking project when you want something special but not complicated.

How to Serve This Buttermilk Chocolate Chip Scones Recipe

There are six round dough balls on a baking tray lined with light brown parchment paper. The dough is light yellow with visible small bits of green herbs and red pieces mixed inside. The balls look soft and slightly rough in texture, with some cracks on the surface. The tray is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When it comes to serving these scones, I love them best a little warm, fresh out of the oven or gently reheated. The chocolate chips are delectably gooey and the crumb soft yet crumbly. They’re fantastic served alongside a slather of butter, clotted cream, or even a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.

If you’re planning a brunch or afternoon tea, pairing these scones with fresh berries or a simple fruit compote adds a nice freshness and contrast to the rich chocolate. For beverages, a classic cup of black tea or freshly brewed coffee is my go-to, but I have to admit, a creamy hot chocolate makes this a real chocolate lover's dream. These scones are incredibly versatile, so whether it’s a cozy morning, a holiday spread, or a casual weekend get-together, they’re sure to impress.

For presentation, placing the scones on a rustic wooden board with a small bowl of clotted cream or jam feels warm and inviting, perfect for welcoming guests or enjoying a quiet moment to yourself with a book and a cup of tea.

Variations

I love switching things up with this Buttermilk Chocolate Chip Scones Recipe depending on the season or mood. For a twist, try adding orange zest or a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for a warm, citrusy note that complements the chocolate beautifully. Another favorite variation is folding in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for some delightful crunch and a nutty flavor.

If you’re looking for a dairy-free or vegan option, you can substitute the buttermilk with a mix of plant-based milk and a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and choose dairy-free chocolate chips. Using vegan butter or coconut oil works well in place of regular butter, though the texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

Lastly, if you don’t want to bake individual scones, shaping the dough into a larger round and baking it as a whole before slicing it into wedges can be a fun presentation and is easier for portion control at a party or gathering.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Leftover scones keep wonderfully when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend their freshness, I recommend gently wrapping them in foil or plastic wrap and placing them in a container to maintain moisture and prevent them from drying out.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze these scones! I usually wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and then store them in a zip-top freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. They keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or gently warm them in the oven to bring back that fresh-baked charm.

Reheating

For reheating, my favorite method is popping the scones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes. This restores the crisp edges and warms the chocolate chips perfectly. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the texture — microwaving can make them soggy or tough. A quick reheat in the oven really revives them and makes them taste almost like fresh-baked.

FAQs

Can I make this Buttermilk Chocolate Chip Scones Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! I often prepare the dough the night before, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. When I’m ready to bake, I simply cut and bake the scones fresh for the best texture and flavor the next morning.

What type of chocolate chips should I use?

I recommend semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chips for a balanced sweetness that complements the tangy buttermilk perfectly. However, milk chocolate or even white chocolate chips can be fun variations depending on your preference.

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Buttermilk adds a special tang and tenderness, but if you don’t have any, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How do I store leftover scones?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Can I add other mix-ins besides chocolate chips?

Definitely! I love adding dried fruit, nuts, or even a handful of fresh berries. Just be mindful that some ingredients may alter the moisture content, so you might need to adjust baking times slightly.

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this Buttermilk Chocolate Chip Scones Recipe. It’s a delightful treat that feels special but comes together easily, perfect for cozy mornings or sharing with loved ones. Once you bake a batch, I’m confident these scones will become a cherished favorite in your kitchen, bringing a little joy and sweetness to your day.

Buttermilk Chocolate Chip Scones Recipe

Why You'll Love This Buttermilk Chocolate Chip Scones Recipe