The Best Gluten-Free Buttermilk Mini Scones

Discover the ultimate GF Buttermilk Mini Scones recipe that solves your gluten-free snack dilemma. This easy recipe uses Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free flour blend, xanthan gum, cold butter, and fresh buttermilk to create golden, flaky treats that boost your gluten-free diet with nutrition benefits.

There’s nothing quite like warm, flaky scones to brighten a quiet afternoon. These gluten-free buttermilk mini scones strike the perfect balance between buttery richness and a tender crumb, making them ideal for anyone seeking gluten-free indulgence. Whether you pair them with coffee or a steaming cup of tea, their light texture and golden tops promise satisfaction in every bite.

As a chef and nutrition consultant, I know that a gluten-free diet can be tasty and healthy. My Gluten-Free Buttermilk Mini Scones use a trusted gluten-free flour blend that is gentle on your gut. Gluten-free baking can be daunting, but this recipe is easy and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a treat that’s simple yet irresistibly delicious, this gluten-free buttermilk mini-scones recipe has so much to offer. These little bites of joy are perfect for casual mornings, tea parties, or just whenever you feel like a baked good that’s wholesome and flavorful. Here’s everything that makes this recipe stand out!

Easy to Make Without Sacrificing Taste

Who says gluten-free baking has to be tricky? This recipe keeps it very easy! Combine accessible, pantry-friendly dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl, blend in cold butter, and create a soft, cohesive scone dough. It’s easy enough to whip up on a relaxed weekend morning without breaking a sweat.

These scones bake up with light, flaky layers, proving that gluten-free doesn’t mean compromising texture. Bonus: You can use your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or juice blueberries if you want them sweet.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a brunch or making a free afternoon tea feel luxurious, these mini scones fit effortlessly into any setting. Their petite size makes them ideal for sharing, while their tender crumb pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or cup of coffee. Something about them feels just fancy enough to elevate an everyday moment into something special.

Customizable and Versatile

Love a hint of citrus? Toss some lemon zest into your dry mixture. Prefer something sweet? Add a drizzle of warmed honey after baking. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite gluten-free flour blends like Bob’s Red Mill, awhichwork beautifully in this recipe.

Looking for more ways to enhance your scones? Try this easy peach compote recipe for a fruity topping that makes them even more irresistible.

Made with Everyday Ingredients

You won’t need anything fancy or hard to find. The recipe calls for basics like unsalted butter, heavy cream, and a little bit of xantham gum to hold things together. You’ll mix it all on a lightly floured surface and bake it on a parchment-lined baking sheet for a mess-free finish. These steps are simple and stress-free, even if you’re new to baking.

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If you’re stocking up, consider keeping essentials like potato starch, buttermilk powder, and tapioca starch handy—they’re staples in making the best gluten-free scones you’ll ever taste!

Ingredients for Gluten-Free Mini Scones

Gluten-Free Flour Blend

Opt for a high-quality brand like Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour. This mix already includes a bit of xanthan gum, which helps to bind the dough. If your blend doesn’t have xanthan gum, be sure to add a little bit—this keeps your scones from crumbling apart.

Cold Butter

Cold butter is the secret to buttery scones. Keeping it cold ensures that when the scones hit the heat of your preheated oven, the butter creates steam pockets, which is where those tender, flaky layers come from.

Remember, the butter must stay cold for the best results!

Buttermilk

Buttermilk is your go-to ingredient for these mini scones. Its acidity combines with the leavening agents to create a soft, tender crumb. It also adds a lovely tang that enhances the scone’s flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix lemon juice or vinegar with heavy cream as a substitute. You’ll still get the same rich texture that buttermilk provides.

For more about how buttermilk works its magic in recipes, check out The Role Of Acid In Flavor Balance.

Sweeteners and Flavorings

This is optional. You can add brown sugar and erythritol, vanilla extract, and fruits. Just fold them into the scone dough carefully before shaping.

How to Make GF Buttermilk Mini Scones

1. Preheat oven to 450°F.
2. Line your baking tray with parchment paper.
3. Add gluten-free flour, xanthan gum (only if your mix does not contain it), baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar to a large bowl and whisk to combine.
4. Using a pastry cutter, cut in cold butter chunks and break down until they are pea-sized. The texture should be coarse and mealy.
5. Make a well in the center of the bowl. Whisk the egg and add it to the well, followed by the buttermilk. Mix using a spatula until the ingredients are all combined evenly. The dough should be sticky but not too wet.
6. Dust a tablespoon of flour on parchment paper and place your dough on top. Dust the top with a little more flour. Fold half the dough over itself and then fold the other half over, dusting flour on top if needed. 
7. Shape into a 7-inch round and 2-inch-thick disc. Using a 2-inch round cutter, cut out scones, reshaping, and cutting until all the dough is used. You should get 10-12 mini scones.
8. Make an egg wash. Beat one egg in a small bowl. Add a teaspoon of water or milk. Brush on scone tops before baking for a shiny, golden finish. Brush the top of each scone with it before baking for a golden brown finish.
9. Place on prepared baking sheet 1 ½ inches apart, and bake in a preheated oven for 15 minutes. The tops should turn golden brown while the centers remain soft.
10. Serve warm with your favorite spread. Enjoy!

Tools

Wire rack

Large mixing bowl

Parchment paper

Baking tray

Pastry cutter

Sharp knife

Measuring spoons and cups

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes, you may not have all the ingredients on hand or need to make adjustments for dietary needs. The good news is that these gluten-free buttermilk mini scones are versatile and can handle some changes. Below, you’ll find helpful substitution ideas for both common and allergy-friendly swaps.

Flour Substitutions

Not all gluten-free flours are created equal, but the right flour blend makes a big difference.

• For the gluten-free flour I recommend using Bob’s Red Mill or Kings Arthur Gluten-Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour. It works great for texture.

Buttermilk Alternatives

If you don’t have buttermilk, don’t panic—easy substitutes can save the day!

• Make a quick replacement with 1 cup of heavy cream mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
• Buttermilk powder works too. Add the powder to your dry mixture and use cold water as the liquid.
• For a dairy-free option, use unsweetened almond milk mixed with a splash of apple cider vinegar.

Chef Tips for Perfect Mini Scones

When shaping, work on a lightly floured surface. Gently roll out your scone dough to about 1-inch thickness. Use a floured rolling pin or your hands for an even texture. Cut into equal pieces with a sharp knife for neat shapes or a scone pan.

Choosing the right gluten-free flour blend is essential for the best texture. Opt for a trustworthy brand like Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour. This blend often includes xanthan gum, which is critical for holding your dough together. If it’s not included in your blend, add a small amount to mimic the structure of wheat-based scones.

Cold ingredients are the secret to flaky layers. Keep your butter cold. As the scones bake, the butter melts and creates steam pockets, giving them their signature airy texture.

Overmixing can result in heavy scones. Mix the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients just until combined. It’s fine if the dough appears slightly rough—it’s better than overworked dough.

Ways to Serve Gluten-Free Buttermilk Mini Scones

1. Clotted Cream and Jam: The smooth texture of clotted cream alongside sweet jams like raspberry or strawberry is a must-try. Spread them generously on the tops of the scones for that traditional British experience.
2. Honey or Maple Syrup: Drizzle some honey or maple syrup over the scones for a natural touch of sweetness.
3. Butter: Serve with softened unsalted butter to keep it simple yet delicious.
4. Fruit Compote: Spoon some fruit compote like this easy peach compote for a vibrant, fruity kick.
5. Whipped Cream and Berries: Layer with whipped cream and fresh or frozen juicy blueberries for a light, airy sweetness.
6. Cream Cheese and Herbs: For a tangy touch, add a dollop of cream cheese with chopped chives or dill.
7. Avocado and Lemon Zest: Mash avocado with a squeeze of lemon juice and spread it onto the scones.
8. Soft Cheeses: Pair with brie or goat cheese for a rich, creamy option.

How To Store it?

Store your scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps the tops from drying out while maintaining their flavor and crumb. If you want to freeze them, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer bag.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Any Gluten-Free Flour for This Recipe?

Not all gluten-free flours work the same. For the best gluten-free scones, stick with high-quality blends like Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour. These are designed to mimic the structure of wheat flour and already include xanthan gum. If your chosen blend doesn’t include xanthan gum, add a small amount to prevent crumbly dough.

Can I Use a Different Fat Instead of Butter?

Yes! While unsalted butter gives the best richness, alternatives like coconut oil (in solid form) or vegan butter work too. If using salted butter, skip the added salt in the recipe. Keep your substitute chilled before incorporating for the right texture.

What’s the Trick to Golden Scone Tops?

The secret is an egg wash. Brush the top of each scone with it before baking for a golden brown finish.

Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Absolutely!

These gluten-free buttermilk mini scones prove that gluten-free baking can be simple, flavorful, and rewarding. With light, flaky layers and buttery richness, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a free afternoon tea or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea.

Ready to give these gf flour scones a try? Grab your favorite gluten-free flour blends, a pastry cutter, and a preheated oven, and start baking today. For more inspiration, explore similar recipes like Cranberry Curd Tart Gluten-Free to complement your tea party lineup.

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