A Classic Scone Recipe

Perfectly Chocolatey: A Classic Scone Recipe
By: Chef Tanya Novak, Art Bakery, Marbella

There’s no better way to start your day or treat yourself in the afternoon than with a freshly baked scone—especially one that’s loaded with chocolate. When people think of scones, they often picture tea-time rituals in English cottages, but here at Art Bakery in sunny Marbella, Spain, we’ve put our own spin on this classic. Let’s delve into the art of crafting tender, chocolatey scones that will tempt even the most discerning sweet tooth.

A Little Scone History

Scones are believed to have originated in Scotland, where they were once made in a large round shape, then cut into triangular wedges. Over the years, the humble scone has evolved into many delightful varieties—plain, studded with fruit, drizzled with glaze, or in this case, brimming with chocolate chips. Whether you serve them warm with butter and jam or savor them on their own, scones are a perfect companion for tea or coffee any time of the day.

Classic Chocolate Scones

Makes 8 large scones

Ingredients

• 250 g all-purpose flour

• 50 g unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp salt

• 50 g granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

• 110 g cold, unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

• 100 g chocolate chips (milk, dark, or a mix)

• 150 ml cold whole milk (plus extra for brushing)

• 1 large egg (optional, for an even richer dough)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Method

1. Preheat & Prep
   Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Set aside.

3. Cut in the Butter
   Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. (The key here is to keep the butter cold, which helps create tender, flaky scones.)

4. Add Chocolate Chips
   Stir in the chocolate chips.

5. Mix in Liquids
   Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the cold milk, along with the optional egg and vanilla extract (if using). Gently mix until the dough just comes together. It’s important not to overwork the dough—doing so can lead to tough scones.

6. Shape & Cut
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat or roll it into a circle about 2-3 cm thick. Using a sharp knife or a pastry cutter, divide the dough into 8 wedges. Alternatively, you can cut out round shapes using a biscuit cutter or glass. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet.

7. Final Touch
   For a beautiful crust, brush the tops of the scones with a little milk or a beaten egg. This helps them brown nicely in the oven.

8. Bake
   Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the scones have risen and the tops look lightly set. You should be able to smell the wonderful aroma of cocoa wafting through your kitchen. Transfer the scones to a cooling rack to keep the bottoms from getting soggy.

Serving Suggestions

1. Chocolate Drizzle & Sea Salt
   After they’ve cooled slightly, drizzle melted chocolate over the top and sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt. This simple finishing touch adds both visual appeal and a flavor contrast.

2. Strawberries & Whipped Cream
   For a decadent dessert, split a scone in half and fill it with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. It’s a simple yet indulgent way to enjoy a chocolate scone.

3. Coffee Pairing
   Serve warm with a cappuccino or a creamy latte—bitterness from the coffee perfectly complements the rich cocoa.

A Personal Note from My Kitchen

I first discovered my love for scones when I visited my aunt in London. She took me to a traditional afternoon tea, and the moment I bit into that airy, slightly sweet scone, I was hooked. Nowadays I like experimenting with different flavor combinations for the customers at Art Bakery. Though we love the classic fruit scone, our chocolate version has become a bestseller—especially with the kids! It’s one of those baked goods that instantly delivers comfort and happiness with each bite.

Thank you for stopping by my blog! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying scones for the first time, I hope this recipe brings a little slice of joy to your home. Feel free to leave a comment or stop by Art Bakery in Marbella to share your own scone-baking adventures.

Yours in sweet indulgence,
Chef Tanya Novak
Art Bakery, Marbella