Potato Scones Recipe

If you’ve never had the pleasure of biting into warm, golden Potato Scones, you’re in for a true comfort food treat. These Scottish favorites bring together creamy mashed potatoes and tender, fluffy dough, pan-cooked until beautifully golden and crisp at the edges. Potato Scones are a marvel of simplicity, especially wonderful for using up leftover mash, and they have the uncanny ability to fit into any meal. You’ll adore their savory flavor, irresistible texture, and the way they pair beautifully with everything from jam to eggs. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a teatime snack, you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Potato Scones lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a special role in creating that tender crumb and delicate flavor you crave in every bite. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• Mashed potatoes (2 cups, cooled): The star of the show! Cooled mashed potatoes give your scones their signature soft texture and earthy flavor. Leftovers work perfectly.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): Flour brings structure and helps bind the dough without making the scones tough.
• Baking powder (1/2 tsp): This gives the scones just enough lift for a light, tender crumb.
• Salt (1/2 tsp): Just the right amount really boosts the other flavors and brings it all together.
• Unsalted butter (2 tbsp, softened, plus extra for cooking): Butter infuses richness and helps create that incredible golden-brown crust.
• Milk (2–3 tbsp, as needed): Just a splash helps you reach that perfect, soft dough consistency.

How to Make Potato Scones

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

Start by grabbing a large bowl and adding your mashed potatoes, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and softened butter. Stir these together until everything is just starting to come together into a dough. If it looks a bit dry, add milk slowly, a tablespoon at a time. The goal is a soft, pliable dough that still holds its shape.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Lightly flour your work surface, then turn out the dough and gently knead it until smooth. This only takes a minute or so, just until it’s supple and cohesive. Don’t overwork it or your Potato Scones may end up tough instead of tender.

Step 3: Shape and Cut

With a rolling pin, roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. For a classic touch, cut your Potato Scones into rounds with a biscuit cutter or into traditional rustic wedges by slicing the dough into triangles. Both styles bake up beautifully—choose whatever speaks to you!

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

Heat a griddle or nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly brush with butter. Add the shaped scones (in batches if needed), leaving space between them. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, flipping once each is golden brown underneath. The result? Gorgeous scones with crisp golden outsides and soft, pillowy centers.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Transfer your Potato Scones to a plate, and enjoy them steaming hot. A dollop of creamy butter, a swipe of your favorite jam, or even alongside eggs makes them the star of any meal.

How to Serve Potato Scones

Garnishes

A warm batch of Potato Scones loves to be dressed up. Freshly chopped chives, a pat of melting butter, or even a sprinkle of flaky salt take them to another level. Want something sweet? A spoonful of homemade jam or honey works magic here!

Side Dishes

Potato Scones make a hearty companion to classic breakfast fare like fluffy scrambled eggs, sizzling bacon, or even smoked salmon and herby cream cheese. If you’re serving brunch, add a fresh green salad for contrast and brightness. Their mild, savory flavor lets you get creative.

Creative Ways to Present

You’re not limited to tradition—stack your Potato Scones for a napkin-wrapped brunch basket, or cut them into mini rounds for canapés. Try making a little sandwich with smoked salmon and dill, or serve open-faced with roasted veggies and a drizzle of yogurt. Their versatility means you can let your culinary imagination lead the way.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Potato Scones left over, let them cool completely, then wrap well and refrigerate for up to three days. Their texture holds up nicely, so you can grab one for a quick breakfast or snack without any loss of flavor.

Freezing

Want to save some for later? Potato Scones freeze beautifully. Place cooled scones in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight bag or container. They’ll keep for up to two months, ready to pull out whenever a craving hits!

Reheating

To recapture that fresh-from-the-skillet magic, simply reheat Potato Scones in a hot dry skillet for a minute or two per side. Alternatively, pop them in the toaster for added crispiness—the microwave works too, but won’t deliver that irresistible crust.

FAQs

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes with milk and butter already added?

Absolutely! In fact, Potato Scones are a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, even if they’ve already got a bit of milk and butter in them. Just adjust the amount of added milk as needed for a soft dough.

Can I add cheese or herbs to the recipe?

Definitely! Try folding in a handful (about 1/4 cup) of grated cheddar, parmesan, or chopped fresh herbs for extra flavor. These simple additions can make your Potato Scones feel special and totally personalized.

Do Potato Scones have to be cooked on a griddle?

No griddle? No problem! A nonstick skillet or heavy frying pan will work just fine. The key is getting that gentle, even heat to create a golden, crisp crust on both sides.

Are Potato Scones gluten free?

They’re not traditionally gluten free since all-purpose flour is usually used, but you can experiment with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a similar result. Just expect a slightly different texture—the taste is still comfortingly delicious!

What’s the best way to serve Potato Scones for brunch guests?

I love piling them high in a warm basket with little bowls of butter, jam, and savory spreads on the side. Add coffee, tea, and juice for an easy but incredibly satisfying brunch experience that feels cozy and generous.

Final Thoughts

There’s something special about the humble Potato Scone—how it transforms simple pantry staples into pure comfort and joy on your plate. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or trying them for the first time, whip up a batch soon and share them with someone you love. Once you’ve tasted their warming, homey charm, you’ll be making Potato Scones a regular part of your kitchen traditions!

Print