Potato Scones Recipe

If you’ve never had the pleasure of biting into warm, golden Potato Scones, you’re in for a genuine treat. These classic Scottish favorites are the perfect way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into something completely irresistible: a soft, buttery delight with a crisp exterior and a tender, pillowy inside. Whether you enjoy them alongside a savory breakfast or snuggled up with a hot cup of tea, Potato Scones are a comfort food that always feels a little bit special.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Potato Scones comes from their simplicity. With just a handful of kitchen staples, every ingredient earns its place by contributing to the finished scone’s taste, texture, and golden-brown color.

• Mashed potatoes (1 cup, plain, cooled): Use leftover or freshly mashed potatoes, making sure they’re not too wet for the perfect tender crumb.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): Adds structure and brings the dough together for rolling and cutting.
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, softened): Lends richness and a beautifully soft texture to every bite.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and keeps the scones from tasting bland.
• Baking powder (½ teaspoon): Gives the scones a gentle lift so they don’t turn out dense.
• Milk (2–3 tablespoons, as needed): Helps moisten the dough just enough for easy handling; add gradually to avoid stickiness.
• Extra flour for rolling: Necessary for dusting your work surface and ensuring smooth rolling without sticking.

How to Make Potato Scones

Step 1: Mix Your Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooled mashed potatoes, flour, softened butter, salt, and baking powder. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to blend everything together. If the dough seems dry or crumbly, start adding the milk one tablespoon at a time. The dough should come together smoothly and feel soft but not sticky.

Step 2: Knead Briefly

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it just until smooth—this usually takes about 1 to 2 minutes. Be careful not to overwork it, as you want your Potato Scones to be light and tender, not tough.

Step 3: Roll and Cut

With a floured rolling pin, roll the dough out to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a sharp knife to cut into rounds or classic triangles. Don’t worry if the shapes aren’t perfect; rustic edges give them character!

Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection

Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it. Place your cut scones onto the hot surface. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, turning when they’re golden brown and cooked through. The outside will crisp up beautifully while the inside stays soft and fluffy—a true hallmark of great Potato Scones.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

As soon as they’re done, serve your Potato Scones warm from the skillet. Top them with a pat of butter, a dollop of jam, or use them to scoop up eggs and bacon for the ultimate breakfast plate. They’re honestly hard to resist!

How to Serve Potato Scones

Garnishes

For a truly inviting finish, slather your Potato Scones with salted butter or a swipe of tangy cream cheese. You could also try a spoonful of jam or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Side Dishes

Potato Scones are incredibly versatile. Classic pairings include sausage, bacon, and eggs to turn a simple breakfast into something hearty, or you can offer them alongside a bowl of soup or salad for lunch. They also shine next to grilled tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian spin.

Creative Ways to Present

While the traditional triangle or round scone is lovely, you can get playful: try making mini Potato Scones for a party platter or cutting them into fun shapes with cookie cutters. Stack them in a breadbasket for brunch or set them out with smoked salmon and crème fraîche as a sophisticated appetizer. However you present them, these scones always attract attention.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have Potato Scones left over, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to two days at room temperature, though they’re at their very best when enjoyed the same day.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Potato Scones for make-ahead convenience. Once they’ve cooled, lay them in a single layer between sheets of parchment and pop them into a freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to a month—just pull out as many as you need.

Reheating

To bring back that irresistible just-made flavor, simply reheat Potato Scones in a dry skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes per side. You can also use a toaster oven if you’re in a hurry—just don’t microwave them, as they tend to lose their lovely crispness.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! In fact, Potato Scones taste even more luxurious when your mashed potatoes are enriched with a little milk or butter. Just make sure your mash isn’t too wet, or you may need a bit more flour to bring the dough together.

What if I don’t have a round cutter?

No special tools needed! Simply use a sharp knife to cut your dough into classic wedges or triangles. Potato Scones are all about homestyle charm, so rustic shapes are not only okay—they’re encouraged.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can swap in your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just keep in mind you may need to adjust the amount very slightly depending on the blend, as some absorb more moisture.

Why are my Potato Scones tough or dense?

The main culprits are overworking the dough or using too much flour. Knead just until smooth and roll the dough gently. Potato Scones should be tender with a slight bite, not chewy or heavy.

How do I know when my Potato Scones are cooked through?

Look for a golden brown color and give them a gentle tap; they should sound slightly hollow and feel light. If you’re unsure, break one open to check that the inside is cooked and fluffy, not gummy.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so heartwarming about making Potato Scones from scratch. They’re unfussy, quick, and deliver big on cozy flavor. Give this recipe a try—the golden, buttery scones that emerge from your kitchen will have everyone reaching for seconds!

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