Fluffy Lemon Zest Scones with Yoghurt & Lemonade

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Orange Basket Cafe (@orangebasketcafe)

Light, airy, and with just a hint of tang, these scones are a playful twist on the traditional version — using lemonade for lift and yoghurt for tenderness. Perfect for morning tea, brunch, or an afternoon treat.

Fluffy Lemon Zest Scones with Yoghurt & Lemonade recipe
Prep Time
20min
Cook Time
14min
Total Time
34min

Ingredients

12 Servings
(1 serving = 1 scone)

Ingredients you will need:

  • self-raising flour
    self-raising flour
    3cups
  • baking powder
    baking powder
    1 1/2tsp
  • caster sugar (raw sugar optional).  Also we sometimes use 1 tbsp caster sugar and 1 tbsp stevia
    caster sugar (raw sugar optional). Also we sometimes use 1 tbsp caster sugar and 1 tbsp stevia
    2tbsp
  • lemon finely grated zest
    lemon finely grated zest
    1
  • thick Greek-style yoghurt
    thick Greek-style yoghurt
    1/2cup
  • thickened cream
    thickened cream
    1/2cup
  • chilled lemonade
    chilled lemonade
    1cup
  • egg lightly beaten
    egg lightly beaten
    1

How to make Fluffy Lemon Zest Scones with Yoghurt & Lemonade

Prepare the dough

  1. Step 1

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, and lemon zest. Mix briefly to distribute evenly.

  2. Step 2

    Add the yoghurt and cream, then slowly pour in the lemonade a little at a time, gently stirring with a spatula or butter knife. Stop adding lemonade once the dough is soft and slightly sticky — you may not need it all.

Shape and chill

  1. Step 1

    Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. With floured hands, gently bring it together and pat into a slab about 2.5cm thick. Avoid heavy kneading to keep the scones tender.

  2. Step 2

    Place the dough slab on a tray or board, cover loosely, and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to firm up.

Cut and prep for baking

  1. Step 1

    Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan-forced). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

  2. Step 2

    Using a round cutter (about 6cm), cut out scones and place them upside-down on the tray, spacing them slightly apart. This helps them rise more evenly.

    Step 3.1: Using a round cutter (about 6cm), cut out scones and place them upside-down on the tray, spacing them slightly apart
  3. Step 3

    Brush the tops gently with beaten egg, and sprinkle a little raw sugar if you'd like a golden, slightly crisp finish.

Bake and enjoy

  1. Step 1

    Bake for 12–14 minutes or until risen and golden on top.

  2. Step 2

    Let them cool slightly on a wire rack, then serve warm with butter, lemon curd, jam, or cream.

    Step 4.1: Let them cool slightly on a wire rack, then serve warm with butter, lemon curd, jam, or cream

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

0.0kcal

Protein

0.0g

Carbs

0.0g

Sugars

0.0g

Healthy Fat

0.0g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Keep the lemonade fizzy for best results — don’t let it go flat.

  2. Use cold cream and yoghurt to help the scones stay light.

  3. These are best fresh on the day, but can be frozen and reheated.

FAQS

  1. Why is chilled lemonade used in the recipe?

    Chilled lemonade helps keep the dough light and airy, as the carbonation adds lift to the scones.

  2. Can I substitute Greek-style yoghurt with regular yoghurt?

    Greek-style yoghurt is thicker and adds more tenderness to the scones. Regular yoghurt may make the dough wetter, so adjust the lemonade quantity accordingly.

  3. How can I store leftover scones?

    These scones are best fresh, but you can freeze them and reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick treat.

  4. What can I serve with these scones?

    Serve them warm with butter, lemon curd, jam, or cream for a delightful pairing.

  5. Can I skip the raw sugar topping?

    Yes, the raw sugar topping is optional and adds a slight crunch and sweetness. You can skip it if preferred.

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