Photo by Althea DeBrule

Scones are part of the traditional fare served at tea parties or for afternoon tea. In recent years many coffee and tea shops have included them on breakfast menus.

Scones originated from Scotland and were closely related to triangular shaped flatbread and bannocks. As traditions and recipes migrated to England, the shape became round and ingredients changed to include buttermilk and sugar. As scones moved further west to America, their texture and shape became more like sweet biscuits.

Scones come in a variety of flavors and fillings—from savory to sweet containing meat, vegetables, fruit, spices and candy. For a unique culinary experience, floral scone mixes that taste like rose, violets, jasmine, lavender and orange blossoms are available for the make-your-own tea enthusiast.

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