Is Heavy Cream or Buttermilk Better for Scones?

Scones are a cherished part of traditional British tea culture, often stealing the spotlight at afternoon teas and special gatherings. Their versatility and timeless appeal have made them a favorite baked good worldwide. Whether paired with a dollop of clotted cream and a spoonful of jam or enjoyed plain with a cup of tea, scones captivate us with their delicate texture and delightful flavor. Yet, achieving that perfect scone is not just about technique; it also depends significantly on the choice of ingredients.

Among the most critical components in any scone recipe is the liquid ingredient. Two popular options—heavy cream and buttermilk—can dramatically alter the outcome of your scones. Heavy cream brings a richness and decadence that creates a dense, buttery scone, while buttermilk adds a lightness and tangy flavor that can elevate the recipe in a completely different way. Choosing between the two goes beyond simply following a recipe—it’s about deciding the kind of scone experience you want to create.

The debate between using heavy cream or buttermilk for scones often boils down to personal preference, the specific flavor profile you’re aiming for, and the role each ingredient plays in shaping the texture, rise, and overall taste. While heavy cream is perfect for rich, dessert-like scones, buttermilk offers a lighter, more balanced option that pairs well with both sweet and savory ingredients.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of scone-making, comparing the effects of heavy cream and buttermilk in detail. We’ll explore how these liquids influence texture, flavor, and appearance, giving you the knowledge to make an informed choice for your next batch of scones. Whether you’re aiming for indulgent richness or light, airy perfection, you’ll finish this guide with all the tools you need to bake scones that are as delicious as they are memorable.

Understanding Scones: A Quick Overview

What Makes a Perfect Scone?

A perfect scone strikes the right balance between tenderness and structure. It should be:

• Moist on the inside, without being overly dense.
• Light and flaky, but not dry or crumbly.
• Rich in flavor, complementing any toppings or add-ins.

The type of liquid you use is one of the most important factors in achieving these qualities. The liquid not only hydrates the dough but also interacts with the butter and flour to determine the texture and rise of the scones.

The Key Role of Liquids in Baking Scones

The liquid ingredient in scone recipes serves several critical purposes:

1. Hydration: Activates the flour to form gluten, giving the dough its structure.
2. Binding: Combines with dry ingredients to hold the dough together.
3. Flavor Enhancement: Adds richness or tanginess, depending on the ingredient.
4. Leavening Support: Reacts with baking powder or soda to help the dough rise.

Heavy Cream: A Rich and Luxurious Choice

What Makes Heavy Cream Special?

Heavy cream, also called heavy whipping cream, contains a high fat content of about 36–40%. This high fat content contributes to the luxurious quality of baked goods, making heavy cream a favorite in rich, decadent recipes. In scones, it creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that many bakers love.

How Heavy Cream Affects Scones

1. Texture: Scones made with heavy cream are dense, moist, and crumbly. The cream’s fat coats the flour particles, limiting gluten formation and resulting in a tender, rich texture.
2. Flavor: Heavy cream has a subtle sweetness and creaminess that enhances the buttery flavor of scones.
3. Appearance: Heavy cream produces scones with a golden, slightly crispy crust when baked.

When to Use Heavy Cream in Scone Recipes

Heavy cream is the ideal choice for recipes that aim to:

• Create a dessert-like scone, such as those with chocolate chips or caramel.
• Pair with indulgent toppings like whipped cream or custard.
• Achieve a rich and decadent flavor for special occasions.

Buttermilk: A Tangy and Light Option

What Sets Buttermilk Apart?

Buttermilk is a fermented dairy product known for its low fat content and tangy flavor. Unlike heavy cream, which is primarily rich and creamy, buttermilk introduces acidity into the recipe. This acidity interacts with baking soda, creating carbon dioxide bubbles that help the dough rise.

How Buttermilk Affects Scones

1. Texture: Buttermilk produces scones that are lighter and fluffier compared to those made with heavy cream. The acidity in buttermilk tenderizes the gluten in the dough, resulting in a soft crumb.
2. Flavor: The tanginess of buttermilk adds a slight sharpness to the scone, balancing out sweetness and enhancing savory ingredients.
3. Rise: Buttermilk’s acidic properties contribute to a higher rise, making the scones more airy and less dense.

When to Use Buttermilk in Scone Recipes

Buttermilk is the preferred choice for:

• Recipes with fruits (like blueberries or raspberries) to balance the sweetness.
• Savory scones, featuring ingredients such as cheese, herbs, or bacon.
• Health-conscious recipes, as buttermilk is lower in fat compared to heavy cream.

Comparing Heavy Cream and Buttermilk in Scones

Texture: Crumbly vs. Fluffy

• Heavy Cream: Yields a crumbly, rich texture that feels indulgent. Ideal for dessert-style scones.
• Buttermilk: Creates a light, airy crumb with a tender texture. Best for balanced, everyday scones.

Flavor: Creamy vs. Tangy

• Heavy Cream: Adds a smooth and neutral creamy taste. It enhances the buttery notes but does not overpower.
• Buttermilk: Provides a tangy, slightly acidic flavor that pairs well with both sweet and savory recipes.

Appearance: Golden Crust vs. Fluffy Height

• Heavy Cream: Encourages a deep golden crust with a slightly crisp exterior.
• Buttermilk: Results in taller, fluffier scones with a more uniform texture.

How to Choose Between Heavy Cream and Buttermilk

Assess Your Baking Goals

1. For Decadence and Richness: Choose heavy cream. It’s perfect for scones you want to serve as a luxurious treat.
2. For Lightness and Flavor Balance: Opt for buttermilk. It’s versatile and works well in a variety of recipes.

Consider Add-Ins and Pairings

• Heavy Cream Scones: Best paired with indulgent toppings like clotted cream, jams, or syrups. Ideal for add-ins like chocolate or nuts.
• Buttermilk Scones: Pair beautifully with fresh fruit, savory spreads, or tangy glazes. Perfect for scones with berries or cheese.

Experimentation is Key

If you’re torn between the two, consider experimenting by making small batches of each. Alternatively, mix equal parts heavy cream and buttermilk for a unique blend that combines the richness of cream with the tanginess of buttermilk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I substitute heavy cream for buttermilk in scone recipes?

Yes, but the texture and flavor will differ. Heavy cream creates a richer, denser scone, while buttermilk results in lighter, tangier ones.

How can I make buttermilk at home?

To make a buttermilk substitute, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to curdle slightly.

What are common mistakes to avoid when making scones?

Common errors include overmixing the dough, adding too much liquid, and failing to preheat the oven properly. For more details on achieving perfect scones, explore the Secrets to Perfect Scones.

Which liquid is better for savory scones?

Buttermilk is often preferred for savory scones as its tanginess complements ingredients like cheese or herbs.

Which is healthier—heavy cream or buttermilk?

Buttermilk is a healthier choice due to its lower fat content.

Conclusion

Choosing between heavy cream and buttermilk for scones depends on your desired outcome. For a rich, buttery texture and indulgent flavor, heavy cream is the way to go, creating scones that pair perfectly with sweet toppings like clotted cream or jam. On the other hand, buttermilk offers a lighter, fluffier texture with a tangy flavor, making it ideal for both sweet and savory recipes.

Consider your preferences, recipe goals, and the type of add-ins or toppings you’ll use. If you’re unsure, experimenting with small batches or even combining the two can help you find the perfect balance. Remember, success lies not only in ingredient choice but also in technique—handle your dough gently and bake with care.

Ultimately, whether you choose heavy cream or buttermilk, the joy of baking scones is in making them your own. So, grab your apron, start baking, and enjoy the delicious results!