Is there one perfect way to eat a scone?

ALSO READ: The stress-free guide to making the perfect scones

Scones are fairly controversial little bakes, as everyone has a very specific personal formula for how they’re best enjoyed.

So what exactly is the best way to enjoy a scone? First things first, whether home-baked or store-bought, it has to be fresh. It’s the only way to enjoy the dense, buttery treat cloaked with a beautifully golden crust. For the toppings, we needed your help. We asked on Instagram and this is what you had to say.

MAKE AT HOME: Amasi and cheese scones

The most popular by far was jam and cream. With everything from fig and strawberry jam to marmalade, there was consensus that jam on a scone should definitely be paired with cream. Whether you do jam first and then cream, or cream and then jam (that’s a whole different debacle we’ll keep for another day!), this combo seems to be a favourite.

TRY THIS RECIPE: Marmite cheese scones

A close second is for those who enjoy a little more indulgence – butter, jam and cream! Even though it involves an extra step, the addition of butter does seem to be a no-brainer.

RECIPE: Traditional English scones

Next up is jam and cheese – a winning savoury-sweet combo that works its best magic on a scone. And, of course, there are those who add butter into the mix here, too. (There were even those who said butter is all that’s needed, and we can’t disagree – butter does make everything better!)

Butter and jam was another favourite, followed by dollops of lemon curd. Next came a few varying combinations (butter and cream; butter and honey; as well as coconut cream, berries and honey).

Less common, but noteworthy, was the suggestion of butter, Bovril and cheese. Last but certainly not least was Nutella, because every baked treat is better with Nutella.

RECIPE: The perfect scone

Enough talking about them – let’s get to eating. Grab a scone and bring on the toppings! Scones, with their steadfast ability to carry a variety of toppings, are somewhat underappreciated but are also conversation (or debate) starters. Have a scone and don’t just stop at one topping – we highly recommend them all! Just file those calories under research purposes.

We hope you’re feeling inspired and ready for a scone break. Together we’ll get through this period of lockdown snack-down – don’t forget to share and tag @food24_sa, or use #bakewithfood24 in all your baking adventures. As always, keep safe and happy baking!

ALSO SEE… How to take your kitchen skills to the next level right now