National Scone Day

A person enjoying a scone topped with jam and cream, wearing a cozy sweater, rustic cafe setting with vintage decor.. — National scone day illustration

Ah, National Scone Day! A delicious celebration you don't want to miss.

When is Scone Day?

It's national scone day on the 30th May.

The Origins of National Scone Day

Have you ever wondered how this delightful pastry made its way into the hearts (and stomachs) of people around the world? Well, let me take you on a sweet journey through the history of National Scone Day!

Believe it or not, scones have been around for centuries. Their origins can be traced back to Scotland, where they were initially made with oats. As time went on, the recipe evolved, and people began using flour instead. The word 'scone' itself derives from the Middle Dutch word 'schoonbrood,' which means 'fine bread.'

Fast forward to the present day, and scones have become a beloved treat enjoyed in many parts of the world. Whether you prefer them plain, filled with fruit, or slathered in cream and jam, there's a scone out there for everyone!

How to Celebrate National Scone Day

Now that you know the fascinating history behind scones, it's time to celebrate National Scone Day in style! Here are a few ways you can join in the fun:

Gather your loved ones and host a scone-themed party. Get creative with different flavors and toppings, and see who can come up with the most delicious combination!
If you're feeling adventurous, why not try making your own scones from scratch? There are plenty of mouthwatering recipes available online to help you get started.
No time to bake? No problem! Visit your favorite bakery or café and indulge in a freshly baked scone with a cup of tea or coffee. It's the perfect way to treat yourself.

Did You Know?

Did you know that scones were originally triangular in shape? The tradition of shaping them into round pieces only became popular in the 20th century. So, next time you devour a scone, take a moment to appreciate its rich history and evolution!

History behind the term 'Scone'

1513

The Origins

The term 'scone' is believed to originate from Scotland during the 16th century. The word is thought to have been derived from the Middle Dutch word 'schoonbrot', meaning 'beautiful bread'. Initially, scones were known as quick bread made with oats or barley, cooked on a griddle over an open fire. They were a staple among the Scottish pebble-dash homes and gained popularity throughout the countryside.

16th century

Origin of the term 'scone'

The term 'scone' originated in Scotland during the 16th century. It is derived from the Middle Dutch word 'schoonbrot' which means 'fine bread'. Scones were originally a type of unleavened bread made with oats and baked on a griddle.

1513

The Early Days

Scones originated in Scotland in the early 16th century. The word 'scone' comes from the Middle Dutch word 'schoonbrot' meaning 'beautiful bread'. These early scones were made from a mixture of oats and barley and were cooked on a griddle, rather than being baked in an oven.

19th Century

Rising Popularity

During the 19th century, scones underwent a transformation and became a beloved treat in England as well. Scottish immigrants introduced scones to the wider British population, where they quickly gained popularity. Scones were often served at teatime, accompanied by clotted cream, strawberry jam, or butter. The combination of light, fluffy texture and rich flavors made scones a favorite among tea enthusiasts.

18th century

Introduction of butter and raising agents

In the 18th century, butter and raising agents such as baking powder or bicarbonate of soda were introduced to the scone recipe. This led to a lighter and fluffier texture compared to the traditional unleavened scones. These new scones were often served as a treat during tea time or as part of a breakfast spread.

1760

The British Influence

During the reign of Queen Victoria, scones gained popularity in England. The British recipe called for the use of refined wheat flour, baking powder, and butter. Cream and jam became classic accompaniments to scones, with the traditional method of serving them being split in half and spread with clotted cream and strawberry jam.

19th century

Diverse variations and cultural influences

During the 19th century, scones gained popularity and started to evolve with diverse variations across different regions. In England, scones became associated with afternoon tea and were commonly served with clotted cream and preserves. In Ireland, scones were often made with buttermilk and served with butter. Meanwhile, in the United States, scones took on a slightly different form with added ingredients like dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips.

1926

The Etiquette of Afternoon Tea

Scones became an essential part of the British afternoon tea ritual. The practice of serving scones with cream and jam at afternoon tea parties became widespread during this time. It was considered proper etiquette to eat scones by breaking them into small pieces and buttering each piece separately.

20th Century

Scones Go Global

In the early 20th century, scones crossed the Atlantic and gained popularity in North America. As British colonization expanded, so did the popularity of scones. However, the American version of scones differed slightly from the traditional British and Scottish recipes. American scones tended to be sweeter, larger, and often included additional ingredients such as fruits, chocolate chips, or nuts.

1980s

Scone Variations and Modern Trends

In the 1980s, scones began to evolve and adapt to different variations. Nuts, dried fruits, cheese, and even chocolate chips started to be added to scone recipes, spurring a wave of creativity among bakers. Additionally, scone flavors expanded beyond the traditional plain or fruit options to include savory options like cheese and herb.

20th century

Scones in modern cuisine

In the 20th century, scones became a staple in cafes and bakeries worldwide. The traditional scone recipe continued to evolve and adapt to different culinary preferences. New flavors and ingredients were introduced, including savory scones with cheese, herbs, or bacon. Scones also found their way into the realm of desserts, often served with whipped cream or icing. Today, scones are enjoyed as a versatile baked good, suitable for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea.

21st Century

Creative Variations

In recent years, scones have undergone a renaissance with creative variations and modern twists. From savory scones with herbs and cheese to unique sweet flavor combinations like lavender and white chocolate, bakers and pastry chefs continue to experiment and push the boundaries of traditional scone recipes. Today, scones remain a beloved treat enjoyed around the world, evoking a sense of nostalgia and comfort.

Present Day

Global Popularity

Today, scones have gained popularity worldwide. They are enjoyed in various countries and cultures, each adding their own unique twist. From the traditional British cream tea to the American interpretation with a glazed or icing-coated finish, scones have become a versatile treat loved by many.

Did you know?

Did you know that scones were originally triangular in shape? The tradition of shaping them into round pieces only became popular in the 20th century.