These soft vanilla bean scones taste like they came straight from a small neighborhood bakery.
They’re tender and buttery on the inside, lightly crisp on the edges, and finished with a simple vanilla glaze that melts right into the top. Not dry, not crumbly — just soft, comforting, and perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.
Why You’ll Love These Scones
Soft and tender, not dry
Subtle vanilla bean flavor that feels bakery-made
Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
Perfect base for add-ins or glazes
Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon treats
Ingredients
All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Baking powder
Salt
Cold unsalted butter
Heavy cream
Egg
Vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
Optional notes:
Vanilla bean paste gives visible flecks, but extract works well
Keep ingredients cold for best texture
Heavy cream creates a richer, softer crumb
How to Make Them
Whisk together the dry ingredients in a large bowl.
Cut cold butter into the flour until crumbly.
Stir in cream, egg, and vanilla until just combined.
Gently shape the dough into a round disc.
Cut into wedges and place on a lined baking sheet.
Bake until lightly golden and set in the center.
Pro Tips & Variations
Extra soft: Don’t overwork the dough
Bakery finish: Brush tops with cream before baking
Glaze swap: Use lemon or almond glaze instead
Add-ins: Blueberries, white chocolate, or raspberries work beautifully
Freezer-friendly: Freeze unbaked wedges for later
Serving Ideas
Serve warm with coffee or tea
Add to a brunch pastry spread
Pair with jam, clotted cream, or butter
Perfect for slow mornings or casual gatherings
Conclusion
These soft vanilla bean scones are the kind of pastry you make once — and then keep coming back to. They’re simple, comforting, and feel just special enough to turn an ordinary morning into something cozy and memorable.
If you love bakery-style pastries that actually work at home, this is one recipe you’ll want to save.
With a flair for combining traditional recipes with modern twists, I have built a reputation for creating elegant cakes, delicate tarts, and irresistible pastries that delight both the eye and the palate.
