Name: Soft and Fluffy Egg-Free Traditional Amasi Scones
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-486455H34M53S
Total time: PT-486455H34M53S
Cuisine: South African
Ingredients: 10 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 10 teaspoons baking powder; 500 grams margarine; 2 cups amasi (cultured milk); 1 cup vanilla custard (optional)

These traditional amasi scones are a soft, golden treat that offer a comforting, nostalgic flavor. Made without eggs and with the use of amasi, a popular South African cultured milk, these scones are rich and fluffy, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special celebration or simply craving a warm, indulgent snack, these scones are guaranteed to impress.

Soft and Fluffy Egg-Free Traditional Amasi Scones

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something incredibly special about these amasi scones. Not only are they egg-free, making them an excellent option for those with egg allergies, but the use of amasi provides a rich, tangy depth of flavor that makes these scones stand out. They have a soft, fluffy texture that melts in your mouth and a slightly golden exterior that adds just the right amount of crispness.

With a simple base recipe, you can customize these scones with fruits, chocolate, or nuts to suit your taste or occasion. The large batch size makes them great for family gatherings, potlucks, or even freezing for later enjoyment.

These scones are a perfect treat for anyone who loves fresh, homemade baked goods!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

10 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
10 teaspoons baking powder
500 grams margarine
2 cups amasi (cultured milk)
1 cup vanilla custard (optional)

Directions

Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and baking powder. Ensure the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the mixture for a consistent rise.
Cut in the Margarine
Slice the margarine into small chunks and add it to the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips, rub the margarine into the mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This step is key to creating flaky layers in your scones.
Add the Amasi
Gradually pour in the amasi, mixing gently with a spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms. If you’re using vanilla custard, add it at this stage and mix just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should remain slightly sticky but manageable.
Knead Gently
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead lightly for about 30 seconds or just until smooth. Avoid overworking the dough to keep the scones tender.
Cut and Shape
Roll the dough to about 1 inch thick. Use a round cookie cutter or glass to cut out your scones. Dust the cutter with flour between each cut to prevent sticking.
Bake Until Golden
Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffed up and golden brown on top.
Cool and Serve
Allow the scones to cool slightly on a rack before serving. Serve warm with a spread of jam and a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields a large batch, typically serving about 18-24 scones depending on the size of the cuts.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Fruit Add-ins: Try adding raisins, currants, or dried apricots to the dough for a fruity twist.
Chocolate: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet and indulgent scone.
Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans for a crunchy texture.
Herbs: For a savory version, try adding finely chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat scones in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warm and slightly crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular milk instead of amasi?

While amasi is key for the tangy flavor in this recipe, you can substitute it with buttermilk or yogurt if you don’t have access to amasi.

2. What if I don’t have margarine?

You can substitute margarine with butter, though margarine helps keep the scones light and fluffy. Butter will work well too, giving the scones a slightly richer flavor.

3. Are these scones sweet or savory?

These scones are lightly sweet due to the addition of sugar. However, they’re versatile enough for you to add savory ingredients like herbs or cheese for a savory version.

4. Can I make these scones gluten-free?

Yes, you can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. However, the texture may vary slightly.

5. How do I know when my scones are done baking?

The scones should be puffed up and golden brown on top. You can also gently tap them on the top—if they sound hollow, they’re ready.

6. Can I make these scones ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just shape and bake when you’re ready.

7. How can I make these scones fluffier?

Make sure not to overwork the dough. Gently mix and knead it to keep the texture light and airy. Also, don’t skip the baking powder—it’s essential for the rise.

8. Can I freeze these scones?

Yes, these scones freeze beautifully. Bake them first, then freeze them. To serve, reheat them from frozen or let them thaw and warm them up in the oven.

9. Can I use fresh cream instead of custard?

Yes, you can use fresh cream instead of custard. It will give a slightly different texture but still result in delicious scones.

10. Why is the dough slightly sticky?

The dough should be slightly sticky, as this helps create soft, tender scones. If it’s too dry, they may turn out dense and tough.

Conclusion

These egg-free traditional amasi scones are the perfect addition to any meal or gathering. They combine a rich, tangy flavor with a soft, fluffy texture, making them an irresistible treat. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, tea, or as a dessert, they’re sure to be a hit. Plus, with endless variations, you can easily tailor them to your taste. Enjoy!