Mary Berry Cherry Scones

These Mary Berry Cherry Scones are a delightful twist on the classic British teatime treat. Light, fluffy, and packed with sweet glacé cherries, these scones are perfect for afternoon tea, brunch, or a quick snack. Ready in under 30 minutes, they require simple ingredients and deliver that perfect golden rise with every batch.

What are Mary Berry Cherry Scones?

Mary Berry’s cherry scones are traditional English scones made with self-raising flour, butter, sugar, and milk, with chopped glacé cherries folded into the dough. Once baked, they turn soft and golden, ideal for serving with butter or clotted cream and a pot of tea.

Other Mary Berry Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Cherry Clafoutis
• Mary Berry Cherry Muffins
• Mary Berry Cherry Jam

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Bakes in under 15 minutes.
• Perfect texture – Soft inside with a golden crust.
• Elegant appearance – Dotted with glossy cherry pieces.
• Minimal ingredients – Requires pantry basics.
• Crowd-pleaser – Great for entertaining or gifting.
• Versatile – Can be made ahead or frozen.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Cherry Scones

• 225g self-raising flour – Gives the scones a light rise.
• 1 tsp baking powder – Adds extra lift.
• 50g butter (cold, cubed) – Creates a crumbly, soft texture.
• 25g caster sugar – For a mild sweetness.
• 100ml milk – Binds the dough and adds moisture.
• 1 egg (for brushing) – Gives a shiny golden top.
• 100g glacé cherries (halved and dried) – Brings sweetness and color.
• Pinch of salt – Balances the flavor.

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter or fingertips
• Baking tray
• Baking parchment
• Round cutter (5–6 cm)
• Pastry brush
• Cooling rack

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Cherry Scones

Step 1: Preheat and prepare the baking tray

• Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F.
• Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients

• In a bowl, sift the self-raising flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Rub the butter into the flour using your fingertips until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Add sugar and cherries

• Stir in the caster sugar and chopped glacé cherries.
• Make sure the cherries are dry to avoid streaking the dough.

Step 4: Form the dough

• Add most of the milk and mix gently with a knife or spatula.
• Bring the mixture together into a soft dough, adding more milk as needed.

Step 5: Roll and cut the scones

• Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead lightly just to smooth.
• Roll out to about 2 cm thickness and cut using a round cutter.

Step 6: Glaze and bake

• Place the scones on the prepared tray.
• Brush the tops with beaten egg (avoid letting it drip down the sides).
• Bake for 12–15 minutes until well-risen and golden.

Step 7: Cool and serve

• Let cool slightly on a wire rack.
• Serve warm with butter, clotted cream, or jam.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Cherry Scones

• Clotted cream and cherry jam – A perfect sweet pairing.
• Fresh whipped cream – Light and fluffy contrast.
• Butter and honey – For a richer, natural sweetness.
• Cup of Earl Grey or English breakfast tea – Classic British touch.
• Sliced almonds on top – Adds crunch and elegance.
• Lemon glaze drizzle – Adds zesty brightness.
• Fresh fruit – Berries pair wonderfully with cherry flavors.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Cherry Scones

• Keep butter cold – Cold fat creates flaky, tender scones.
• Don’t overwork the dough – Light handling keeps scones soft.
• Dry cherries well – This prevents the dough from becoming sticky.
• Use a sharp cutter – Helps scones rise evenly in the oven.
• Avoid twisting the cutter – Press straight down for clean edges.
• Brush only the tops – Prevents the sides from becoming too firm.
• Space out on tray – Allows for even heat circulation and rising.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Cherry Scones

• Add white chocolate chips – For an indulgent twist.
• Swap glacé for dried cherries – A more natural option.
• Mix in lemon zest – Enhances freshness.
• Add almond extract – Brings out the cherry flavor.
• Top with coarse sugar – For a bakery-style finish.
• Make mini scones – Ideal for parties or tea platters.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Cherry Scones

• Store in an airtight container – Keeps them soft for 2–3 days.
• Wrap individually – Ideal for keeping them fresh and portable.
• Freeze for longer storage – Wrap in cling film and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
• Avoid the fridge – Can dry out scones quickly.
• Reheat briefly before serving – Refreshes their texture.

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Cherry Scones

• Oven: Warm at 160°C (320°F) for 5–7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 10 seconds at a time (covered with a paper towel).
• From frozen: Thaw at room temp and reheat in the oven for best results.
• Avoid overheating: Too much heat can dry them out.
• Wrap in foil: Helps retain moisture during reheating.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Cherry Scones Healthier?

• Use wholemeal self-raising flour – Adds fiber and nutrients.
• Reduce sugar slightly – Especially if using sweet glacé cherries.
• Swap butter for a light spread – Reduces saturated fat.
• Use plant-based milk – For dairy-free scones.
• Add flaxseed or chia seeds – For a subtle nutritional boost.

Nutritional Value (per scone)

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Sugar: 10g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 135mg

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of glacé cherries in scones?

Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but make sure to pit, chop, and dry them thoroughly. Too much moisture can affect the dough and result in soggy scones.

Why didn’t my cherry scones rise properly?

If your scones didn’t rise, it could be due to overmixing or using expired baking powder. Always handle the dough gently and check that your leavening agents are fresh.

How do I keep cherry scones soft after baking?

Store them in an airtight container once cooled. For best results, wrap each scone individually to retain moisture and prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze Mary Berry Cherry Scones?

Yes, cherry scones freeze well. Let them cool completely, wrap them tightly in cling film and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Final Words

These Mary Berry Cherry Scones are a timeless British treat that’s both easy to prepare and impressive to serve. With their soft crumb, golden tops, and delightful cherry bursts, they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends over a cup of tea. Once you bake them, you’ll see why they’re a cherished staple in British baking.

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