John Whaite’s Delightful Twist on Traditional Scones

The Scone Controversy

Scones, a beloved British treat, have always been a topic of debate, especially when it comes to the age-old question of jam or cream first. John Whaite, a renowned cookery writer and TV presenter, sidesteps this debate and introduces a fresh take on the classic scone, pairing it with a cherry, anise, and sherry jam.

Introducing the Scruffy Scone

Whaite’s version, dubbed the “scruffy scone,” is a delightful departure from the traditional. Instead of the usual rolling and cutting, these scones are simply balled up, giving them a rustic, rock cake-like appearance. The result? A scone that’s as delicious as it is unique.

Orange Scruffy Scones Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 450g plain flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • Zest and juice of 1 orange
  • 15g baking powder
  • ½ tsp fine salt
  • 80g caster sugar
  • 80g unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 200-250g full-fat creme fraiche
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • Pearl sugar (optional for dusting)
  • Clotted cream (for serving)
• Instructions:
  1. Combine flour, orange zest, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a bowl.
  2. Rub in the butter to achieve a breadcrumb-like texture.
  3. Mix the orange juice with creme fraiche and blend with the dry ingredients.
  4. Knead the dough briefly on a lightly floured surface.
  5. Divide the dough into 10 portions, shape them into balls, and place them on a baking sheet.
  6. Glaze with an egg wash and sprinkle with pearl sugar.
  7. Bake at 200C for 15-17 minutes.

Cherry, Anise, and Sherry Jam

To complement the scruffy scones, Whaite introduces a jam that’s rich in cherry flavor, subtly enhanced by anise and sherry.

Jam Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 400g fresh cherries
  • 70ml fino sherry
  • 2 star anise
  • 275g jam sugar
• Instructions:
  1. Remove cherry stalks and pits.
  2. Combine cherries, sherry, and star anise in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
  3. Let the mixture infuse for an hour.
  4. Add jam sugar and boil until the mixture reaches 105C.
  5. Pour the hot jam into a sterilized jar and let it cool.

This delightful pairing of scruffy scones and cherry jam is sure to be a hit at any gathering, offering a fresh twist on a classic favorite.