![a basket of lemon poppy seed scones](https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones-750x750.jpg)
Lemon Poppy Seed Scones
This recipe for Lemon Poppy Seed Scones makes tender scones every time, perfect for spring! Serve with a simple lemon glaze or top with lemon curd for a delicious springtime brunch! Read on to learn all my tips for making lemon scones with poppyseeds, including how to freeze them!
![lemon poppyseed scone on a plate with lemon curd](https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Lemon-and-Poppy-Seed-Scones-720x1080.jpg)
Making Lemon Poppy Seed Scones
People often ask me how I come of with my recipes. Do I just make stuff up? Well, yes! I’ve mentioned many times how I often like to cook (or bake) with formulas rather than recipes.
Over time I’ve come to learn what things can be changed and what can’t. I am pretty sure that all of the scone recipes on Good Life Eats have originated from the first scone I ever made: Cranberry Orange Scones, which is (in my opinion, of course, one of the best scone recipes).
This method gives me room for variation that wouldn’t happen if I viewed a recipe as just a recipe. It opens up cooking and recipe development to being a creative process rather than purely scientific.
Once you dissect a recipe down to it’s bare bones and have a basic understanding of rations, you have a pretty basic scone formula that can be changed into a multitude of different recipes. If you have a good base, the sky is the limit!
For this particular recipe, I knew I wanted a scone recipe with buttermilk and poppyseeds.
![bowls of ingredients needed to make lemon poppyseed scones](https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones-Ingredients-720x1080.jpg 720w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones-Ingredients-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones-Ingredients-750x1125.jpg 750w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones-Ingredients-730x1095.jpg 730w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones-Ingredients-150x225.jpg 150w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones-Ingredients.jpg 1200w)
Tools Needed
Youβll need a few kitchen tools to prepare this lemon poppy seed scone recipe. Hereβs what I recommend having on hand before getting started:
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – you’ll need a standard set of each for measuring the simple ingredients in this recipe
- Large Mixing Bowl – to combine the dry ingredients together.
- Small Bowl – to combine the wet ingredients.
- Food Processor, Pastry Blender, or Box Grater – to cut the cold butter into the flour.
- Large Baking Sheet – to bake the lemon and poppyseed scones on.
- Parchment Paper – to line the baking sheet.
- Wire Rack – to cool the homemade scones after baking.
![woman stirring flour to make lemon and poppyseed scones](https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Making-Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones-720x1080.jpg 720w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Making-Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Making-Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones-750x1125.jpg 750w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Making-Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones-730x1095.jpg 730w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Making-Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones-150x225.jpg 150w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Making-Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones.jpg 1200w)
Lemon Poppy Seed Scones Ingredients
Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need to make this recipe. Before starting, make sure your baking powder is fresh for best results!
- all-purpose flour
- baking powder
- granulated sugar
- salt
- lemon zest
- butter
- poppy seeds
- eggs
- buttermilk
- fresh lemon juice
- vanilla extract
For the complete ingredient list and detailed instructions to make these easy lemon poppy seed scones, scroll to the bottom of this post for the FREE printable recipe card.
Variations
Depending on what mood you’re in or what citrus you have on hand you can change the flavor of the scone: Instead of a lemon scones with poppyseeds, try swapping the lemon flavor for orange or grapefruit.
![a bowl of dry ingredients for a scone recipe](https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/How-to-Make-Lemon-and-Poppy-Seed-Scones-720x1080.jpg 720w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/How-to-Make-Lemon-and-Poppy-Seed-Scones-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/How-to-Make-Lemon-and-Poppy-Seed-Scones-750x1125.jpg 750w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/How-to-Make-Lemon-and-Poppy-Seed-Scones-730x1095.jpg 730w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/How-to-Make-Lemon-and-Poppy-Seed-Scones-150x225.jpg 150w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/How-to-Make-Lemon-and-Poppy-Seed-Scones.jpg 1200w)
How to Make Lemon Poppy Seed Scones
Making homemade lemon poppyseed scones from scratch couldnβt be simpler! Thereβs no dough chilling required; you can shape the scones and bake them right away.
- Combine the dry ingredients: Stir together the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and lemon zest. Then cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until the butter is in very small pieces.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, lemon juice, and vanilla. Stir to combine.
- Make the Scone Dough: stir the wet ingredients into the flour mixture until just combined.
- Shape the scones: Turn the scone dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide into two equal balls. Pat each ball into a disc shape, then place onto a parchment paper-lined cookie sheet. Using a pastry cutter or sharp knife, divide each ball into triangles.
- Bake the scones: Bake until lightly golden all over.
The above is simply a quick summary of this recipe for lemon buttermilk scones. Check out the full recipe in the free printable recipe card at the bottom of this post for all the detailed instructions.
![woman pouring buttermilk mixture into scone dry ingredients](https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Poppy-Seed-Scone-Recipe-with-Buttermilk-720x1080.jpg 720w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Poppy-Seed-Scone-Recipe-with-Buttermilk-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Poppy-Seed-Scone-Recipe-with-Buttermilk-750x1125.jpg 750w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Poppy-Seed-Scone-Recipe-with-Buttermilk-730x1095.jpg 730w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Poppy-Seed-Scone-Recipe-with-Buttermilk-150x225.jpg 150w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Poppy-Seed-Scone-Recipe-with-Buttermilk.jpg 1200w)
Recipe Tips
- Have you ever made scones? If not, before you check out any recipes youβll want to read about my tips for cutting butter into flour.
- Out of buttermilk? Check out these homemade buttermilk substitutes.
- Donβt overmix the dough. That will make the scones dense and tough rather than tender and flaky.
- Use cold butter for best results. I keep the butter in the fridge until Iβm ready to slice it and add it to the dry ingredients. The cold butter will melt and create pockets of steam in the scones as they bake. Those pockets of steam are what make scones so flaky!
How to Serve Lemon Poppy Seed Scones
I usually like to top scones with a simple glaze. However, for this recipe, I love to make homemade lemon curd to serve atop this perfect springy treat.
For a simple lemon glaze, combine the following. Then, drizzle over cooled scones:
- 1/4 cup Melted Unsalted Butter
- 1 cup Powdered Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice
![unbaked lemon poppyseed scones on a baking sheet](https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Buttermilk-Scones-with-Lemon-and-Poppy-Seed-720x1080.jpg 720w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Buttermilk-Scones-with-Lemon-and-Poppy-Seed-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Buttermilk-Scones-with-Lemon-and-Poppy-Seed-750x1125.jpg 750w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Buttermilk-Scones-with-Lemon-and-Poppy-Seed-730x1095.jpg 730w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Buttermilk-Scones-with-Lemon-and-Poppy-Seed-150x225.jpg 150w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Buttermilk-Scones-with-Lemon-and-Poppy-Seed.jpg 1200w)
Lemon Poppy Seed Scones FAQs
Got questions about how to make this lemon poppy seed scone recipe? Here are the answers to a few commonly asked questions. Feel free to leave any other questions in the comments on this post and Iβll respond with answers.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover scones should be cooled completely before storing. Once cool, transfer scones into an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 5 days, however the scones will dry out over time.
Can I freeze this recipe?
To freeze prior to baking – prepare the lemon poppy seed scones recipe as instructed up until the baking point. Then, transfer the sheet pan of scones to the freezer and freeze until the scones are solid. Place scones (after they’ve frozen solid) into a freezer safe storage bag, removing as much air as possible.
To freeze after baking – let cool to room temperature, then seal inside an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
What is the best way to reheat frozen scones?
If you froze the scones before baking: simply thaw at room temperature, then bake your βhomemade lemon poppyseed scones as instructed until golden brown.
If you froze already baked scones: When ready to eat, place on the counter to thaw. For warm scones, pop them in a warm oven or a toaster oven for a couple of minutes.
![a basket of lemon poppyseed scones next to a bowl of lemon curd](https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Citrus-Scones-Lemon-720x1080.jpg 720w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Citrus-Scones-Lemon-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Citrus-Scones-Lemon-750x1125.jpg 750w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Citrus-Scones-Lemon-730x1095.jpg 730w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Citrus-Scones-Lemon-150x225.jpg 150w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Citrus-Scones-Lemon.jpg 1200w)
Try these Lemon Poppy Seed Scones!
Next time youβre looking for recipe for citrus scones, give these homemade lemon poppyseed scones a try!
Did you love the lemony flavor with your morning cup of coffee? Leave a comment below and give it a review for others to see what you thought of this great recipe.
On Instagram? Share your photo and tag me @goodlifeeats #goodlifeeatsrecipes. Iβd love to see your photo of lemon poppyseed scones!
![a sliced lemon poppyseed scone with lemon curd on a grey plate](https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones-Recipe-720x1080.jpg 720w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones-Recipe-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones-Recipe-750x1125.jpg 750w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones-Recipe-730x1095.jpg 730w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones-Recipe-150x225.jpg 150w, https://www.goodlifeeats.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Lemon-Poppy-Seed-Scones-Recipe.jpg 1200w)
More Buttery Scones
This recipe for Blueberry Lemon Scones is a simple scone recipe that features hints of lemon juice and fresh blueberries to a traditional flakey scone. They have a yummy, sweet lemon glaze.
This recipe for Coconut Scones is a simple scone recipe that features hints of lemon and coconut. They have a yummy, sweet coconut glaze with a delicious toasted coconut and almond topping.
If you love juicy strawberries, youβll love the taste of these tender Strawberry Scones! They have the perfect amount of sweetness with a pop of citrus thanks to Meyer lemon zest and lemon glaze.
Once you are confident with the method for making scones, they really are not that difficult. You can also try tweaking my Master Scone Recipe (+ Flavor Variations!) to come up with all sorts of scone recipe variations
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Lemon Poppy Seed Scones
This recipe for Lemon Poppy Seed Scones makes tender scones every time, perfect for spring! Serve with a simple lemon glaze or top with lemon curd for a delicious springtime brunch!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- ΒΎ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1 cup cold butter, sliced
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and lemon zest. Cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse sand.
- In a small bowl, combine the eggs, buttermilk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract together. Whisk until well combined.
- Make a well in the center of the flour mixture, pour in the egg mixture and stir until it comes together. Stir just until the dough is moist, do not over mix.
- Turn the dough out on a lightly floured counter and knead a few times until it holds it's shape.
- Divide into two equal portions (a kitchen scale helps with this) and roll into an 8 or 9 inch circle.
- Pat each ball into an 8-inch circle. Place each ball onto a parchment paper-lined or greased cookie sheet.
- Cut each circle into 6 triangles (or 8 for smaller scones).
- Place the triangles on a parchment lined baking sheet.
Making the Scone Dough
Shaping the Scones
Baking the Scones
- Bake in a 375 degree oven for 20 - 30 minutes, or until done and lightly golden. Allow the scones to cool.
- Serve with butter and jam or fruit curd.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 12 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 364Total Fat: 17gSaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 72mgSodium: 478mgCarbohydrates: 46gFiber: 2gSugar: 13gProtein: 6g
GoodLifeEats.com offers recipe nutritional information as a courtesy. This provided information is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although GoodLifeEats.com makes every effort to provide accurate information, these figures are only estimates.
Laurene says
Mmmnnn these look gorgeous and yummy.. I will try your grapefruit curd recipe to make a tart π
SweetSugarBelle says
I love your blog! These look yummy. I like scones more than I like cookies even!!! Stumbling this now!
Nancy @SensitivePantry says
I love the idea of the base recipe with variations depending on what you have on hand or what your heart desires at that moment. (PS – I think I’m partial to the Cranberry Orange Scones myself…some of my favorite flavors.)
Kendel @ Eating Abroad says
I love the idea of sharing the formula for a recipe. I’d love to see this kind of thing more often. It shows your creativity and understanding of the craft. Thanks!
cailen says
umm…wow. those look delicious! i love the lemon/poppyseed combo : )
great blog! glad i stopped by
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cailen
Happy When Not Hungry says
These look delicious! Love this basic scone recipe. Will definitely have to give it a try!
Jen @ My Kitchen Addiction says
Scones are one of my favorite treats for breakfast… And, I love the infinite possibilities. These poppy seed scones look just divine!
Kelsey, from Happyolks says
I love basic formulas like this, room for creativity is perfect when you’re in an ingredient bind! Love your blog, as always π
Shaina says
These scones look gorgeous. I love lemon poppy seed, and I can’t wait to try grapefruit poppy seed.
Sues says
I have a huge thing for scones and these look wonderful π I wish I was better at formulas, but I think it just takes practice. I just got Michael Ruhlman’s book, Ratio, and I can’t wait to read it!
Sylvie @ Gourmande in the Kitchen says
I’m the same way when it comes to cooking and baking, I go by formulas and try to break a recipe down to it’s basic components in order to know what works and what doesn’t.
Megan says
Your scones look lovely. Thanks for the basic formula, that’s very helpful.
TheGourmetCoffeeGuy says
Great recipe for a fabulous scone. A basic recipe like yours is guarantee for success, thank you for sharing.
Megan says
Hey Katie, thanks for posting this! However, you have a typo! In your basic formula section, you have baking soda instead of baking powder (like you have in the later recipe).
I realized this when I tried the formula today and my scones came out rather, um, salty. Oops!
Katie says
Oh gosh, Megan, I am SO sorry! Thanks for letting me know. I’m fixing it right now.
Maryea {Happy Healthy Mama} says
I totally agree that once you have a basic “formula” for a certain recipe, the sky is the limit. These look really tasty!
Sharlene says
Thank you so much for your basic recipe. I have a basic cupcake recipe down but not much else and am looking to expand. These scones look amazing!