If you’re looking to impress your friends or simply treat yourself to a delightful afternoon snack, this Earl Grey Blackberry Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe is an absolute gem. The fragrant Earl Grey tea leaves infuse the scones with a sophisticated depth, while the juicy blackberries add bursts of sweetness and freshness. Topped off with a vibrant, tangy lemon glaze, these scones perfectly balance rich, floral, and fruity notes in each buttery bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe offers a delightful way to elevate your scone game and create a memorable teatime treat.

Several round scones with a light golden-brown top layer show swirls of dark purple berries baked inside. A thin white glaze with small bits of orange zest drizzles unevenly over each scone, adding a shiny texture. The scones sit on light brown parchment paper, which rests on a white marbled surface. Around the scones are a few dark purple blackberries and bright purple small flowers scattered randomly for decoration. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward, accessible, and each plays a pivotal role in bringing your scones to life. From the earthy Earl Grey tea powder to the fresh blackberries, every component contributes essential flavor, texture, and color that make these scones irresistible.

All-purpose flour (3 1/4 cups): The foundation that provides structure and tenderness to the scones.

Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tea and berries.
Earl Grey tea, ground until fine (1.5 tablespoons): Infuses the dough with fragrant bergamot and subtle floral notes.
Baking powder (2 1/2 teaspoons): Helps raise the scones to a light and fluffy texture.

Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Works alongside baking powder to ensure perfect leavening.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
Cold unsalted butter (3/4 cup): Key for creating flaky layers and rich taste.

Large egg, lightly beaten (1): Binds ingredients and adds moisture.
Cold buttermilk (3/4 cup): Tenderizes the dough and adds a subtle tang.
Fresh blackberries (1 cup): Bursting with juicy sweetness and gorgeous color.

Extra buttermilk and granulated sugar: For brushing and sprinkling, giving the scones a lovely golden finish.
Powdered sugar (1 cup): The base of the zesty lemon glaze.
Lemon juice (1.5 tablespoons): Adds bright, refreshing acidity to the glaze.

Vanilla (1 teaspoon): Boosts the glaze’s sweetness with a warm undertone.
Lemon zest (from 1 lemon): Brings vibrant citrus aroma and flavor to the glaze.

How to Make Earl Grey Blackberry Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Tea

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and set your baking tray on the upper one-third rack; this ensures even baking and a lovely golden crust. Next, grind 1 1/4 tablespoons of Earl Grey tea leaves finely using a blender or mortar and pestle. This powder will release that distinctive bergamot essence throughout the scone dough, promising every bite bursts with aroma.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients and Cut in Butter

In a large bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, the finely ground Earl Grey, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Removing clumps will make mixing easier and the texture finer. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter. This technique is crucial for flaky scones. Chill this mixture briefly while you prepare wet ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients and Add Blackberries

Lightly beat the egg with the cold buttermilk to create a silky liquid that will tenderize your dough. Gently rinse and dry your fresh blackberries to avoid excess moisture which could weigh down the dough. Combine the wet and dry mixtures until just holding together—don’t overmix. Fold in blackberries carefully so they don’t burst prematurely, preserving their regal appearance and sweet pockets of juice.

Step 4: Bring the Dough Together

Turn the dough onto your work surface and use the heel of your hand to press and fold it gently until it cohesively comes together without overworking. For a better rise and texture, fold the dough in halves once or twice more, pressing gently each time. The blackberries may get lightly crushed—that’s perfectly fine as it deepens flavor without losing tender pockets of fruit.

Step 5: Shape and Chill the Scones

Roll or press the dough to about 1-inch thickness and cut into 2-inch circles or squares. Arrange the pieces on a parchment-lined baking tray. To ensure the butter stays cold for flaky layers, place the tray in the freezer for 5 minutes before baking. This final chill step is a secret weapon to perfect scones.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Brush each scone’s surface with extra buttermilk and sprinkle granulated sugar on top for added crunch and sweetness. Bake in the preheated oven for 16 to 20 minutes until they’re puffed up and beautifully golden. Removing them to a wire rack lined with parchment will keep the bottoms from getting soggy as they cool.

Step 7: Prepare and Apply the Lemon Glaze

While the scones cool, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice to thin or powdered sugar to thicken. Drizzle this glossy glaze liberally over the warm scones, allowing some to drip naturally for a pretty, appetizing look. Let them rest for 10 to 15 minutes until the glaze sets—then get ready to indulge!

How to Serve Earl Grey Blackberry Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe

The image shows three round scones on a white plate with a floral and gold rim pattern, placed on a white marbled surface. The scones have a crumbly texture with visible red and purple berries inside them. One scone is open-faced and spread with a thick layer of smooth white cream. A bronze spoon with extra cream rests on the plate next to the scone. There are small purple flowers scattered around the plate, and a whole lemon is blurred in the background, adding color contrast. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a sprig of fresh lemon thyme or a light dusting of finely grated lemon zest on top of the glazed scones elevates their presentation and aroma. For an extra touch of indulgence, serve with a pat of clotted cream or a dollop of whipped honey-infused cream to complement the zingy lemon glaze perfectly.

Side Dishes

These scones pair beautifully with a pot of your favorite Earl Grey tea or a lightly brewed green tea to keep the flavor profile harmonious and light. Fresh fruit salad with citrus notes or a simple mixed berry compote also makes a delightful companion, adding refreshing balance to the buttery richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming brunch or tea party, arrange the Earl Grey Blackberry Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe on a tiered cake stand alongside petite sandwiches and macaroons. Wrap individual scones in parchment tied with twine or a lemon-yellow ribbon to gift to friends or brighten up your own picnic basket. These visual touches make serving as memorable as the taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover scones keep best when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This maintains their tender crumb and prevents the glaze from becoming sticky or dull. Avoid refrigeration to preserve freshness and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze extra scones wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to three months. Freezing locks in freshness and flavor so you can enjoy these Earl Grey Blackberry Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe any time a craving strikes. Just make sure they’re fully cooled before wrapping to avoid sogginess upon thawing.

Reheating

For the best texture after freezing, reheat scones in a 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp on the outside. Avoid using microwaves as they can make scones chewy and dense. A gentle oven reheat revives their freshly baked charm perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use dried Earl Grey tea instead of fresh leaves?

Yes, finely ground dried Earl Grey tea leaves work beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure to grind them to a powdery texture for even distribution and maximum flavor extraction throughout the dough.

What if I don’t have buttermilk on hand?

A simple substitute is to mix one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar with enough milk to make 3/4 cup. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This mimics buttermilk’s acidity and helps tenderize the scones just right.

Can I swap blackberries for another fruit?

Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or chopped strawberries would all be delicious alternatives. Just adjust the quantity slightly if using particularly juicy or large berries to avoid making the dough too wet.

How do I prevent blackberries from sinking to the bottom of the scones?

Coat the blackberries lightly with a bit of flour before folding them into the dough. This helps suspend the fruit evenly so you get those delightful berry bursts in every bite rather than all settling at the bottom.

Is the lemon glaze necessary?

While the glaze adds a refreshing pop of citrus and a beautiful finish, you can definitely enjoy these scones plain or with simple butter. However, the lemon glaze truly makes this Earl Grey Blackberry Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe stand out as a bright and special treat.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say these Earl Grey Blackberry Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe are a total crowd-pleaser. They combine comforting, buttery goodness with sophisticated tea notes and a lively lemon finish. Whether you’re baking for a weekend gathering or a quiet indulgence, these scones bring joy with every bite. So, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to this wonderfully flavorful baking adventure—you won’t regret it!

Earl Grey Blackberry Scones with Lemon Glaze Recipe