Citrus Raisin Scones Recipe

The best raisin scones are buttery, tender, and filled with bursts of sweet raisins. This recipe is unique because it’s tested until perfect, with the added brightness of fresh lemon and lime zest for a refreshing twist. Ready in under 30 minutes, these scones are the perfect quick bake for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack!

Table of Contents

• Why I Love This Raisin Scones Recipe
• Ingredients You’ll Need
• Substitutions & Variations
• Directions
• How to Store & Make Ahead
• Other Scone Recipes You’ll Love
• Final Thoughts
• Connect with Me

I’ve always loved scones—their flaky layers, golden tops, and versatility make them one of my go-to bakes for entertaining. But with raisin scones, I found so many recipes either too dry, too dense, or overly sweet. That’s why I tested this recipe multiple times until it struck the perfect balance: buttery yet light, just sweet enough, and with a citrusy lift that sets them apart from classic versions.

And while traditional raisin scones are lovely with tea, this version has a brightness that feels just right for spring or summer mornings. Plus, it uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.

Why I Love This Raisin Scones Recipe

• Tested for perfection – no dry, crumbly scones here!
• Simple pantry ingredients – nothing fancy, just real, accessible ingredients.
• Unique citrus twist – lemon and lime zest make them extra refreshing.
• Quick bake – you’ll have warm scones on the table in about 25 minutes.

I especially love that this recipe uses plain Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream—it makes the scones moist and tender while adding a subtle tang.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a quick look at the key ingredients (and some tips!):

• All-Purpose Flour (1 ½ cups): The structure of the scone. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 flour blend.
• Sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens just enough to balance the raisins.
• Baking Powder (1 tsp) + Baking Soda (¼ tsp): Gives the scones their rise.
• Salt (¼ tsp): Essential for balance.
• Cold Butter (½ cup): The secret to flaky layers! Keep it cold and cut into thin slices.
• California Raisins (½ cup): Plump, sweet, and perfect for baking.
• Greek Yogurt (½ cup): Adds richness and keeps the dough tender.
• Zest of 1 Lime + 1 Lemon: A fresh twist that makes these scones irresistible.

Substitutions & Variations

• Fruit Swap: Try golden raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dried apricots.
• Spiced Version: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon or pumpkin spice for cozy flavors.
• Glazed Scones: Drizzle with powdered sugar icing mixed with lemon juice.
• Classic Cream Scones: Swap Greek yogurt for heavy cream for a richer bake.
• Orange Raisin Scones: Replace lime zest with orange zest for a softer citrus note.

Directions

1. Prep the Oven – Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cut in Butter – Add the cold butter slices. Using a pastry cutter or fingertips, work it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add Flavor – Stir in raisins, lime zest, and lemon zest.
5. Form Dough – Gently fold in Greek yogurt until the dough comes together. Do not overmix.
6. Shape Scones – Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Pat into a 1-inch thick circle and cut into 8 wedges.
7. Bake – Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown at the edges.
8. Cool & Enjoy – Let cool slightly, then serve warm or at room temperature.

How to Store & Make Ahead

• Storage: Store cooled scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Freeze Unbaked: Shape and freeze the dough wedges on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a bag and bake straight from frozen—just add 2–3 extra minutes to the bake time.
• Freeze Baked: Cool completely and freeze in an airtight bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes.

Other Scone Recipes You’ll Love

• Fresh Strawberry Scones
• Spiced Cranberry Walnut and White Chocolate Scones
• Orange & Basil Scones
• Apple & White Chocolate Scones
• Bacon, Cheddar and Chive Scones
• Cheddar Cheese and Caramelized Onion Scones Recipe

Final Thoughts

These raisin scones are a refreshing take on the classic—fluffy, buttery, and studded with plump raisins, but with that extra citrus zing that makes them unforgettable. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch spreads, or a cozy afternoon tea.

Bake a batch, enjoy them warm from the oven, and I promise you’ll never go back to store-bought scones again.

Connect with Me

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