Lower Fat Scones: How to Make A Healthier Breakfast Treat

There’s something magical about warm scones fresh from the oven. They’re crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfect with a cup of tea or coffee. The only catch is that traditional scones are often loaded with butter and cream, which can make them feel a little too heavy for everyday enjoyment. That’s exactly why I love this Lower Fat Scones Recipe. It keeps the charm and comfort of classic scones but lightens them up so you can enjoy them guilt-free, even on a busy weekday morning. Whether you’re planning a cozy weekend brunch or want a healthier baked good for your snack time, these scones fit beautifully.

What Makes This Recipe Stand Out

The beauty of this Lower Fat Scones Recipe lies in its balance between indulgence and lightness. By reducing butter and replacing part of it with Greek yogurt, we keep the scones moist while cutting down the fat. A touch of low-fat milk adds tenderness without weighing them down, and just the right amount of sugar ensures they’re flavorful but not overly sweet.

This recipe also shines because of its flexibility. You can add blueberries, dried cranberries, or even chocolate chips depending on your mood. Gluten-free flour blends work well here, and plant-based yogurts can be swapped in if you’re dairy-free. Whether you like your scones plain and simple or jazzed up with add-ins, this lighter version makes it possible to enjoy them more often without compromise.

Make-Ahead Prep for Effortless Baking

To make this Lower Fat Scones Recipe stress-free, a little prep goes a long way. You can measure out your dry ingredients, flour, baking powder, and sugar—the night before and store them in an airtight container. If you plan to add fruit like berries or raisins, have them washed, dried, and ready. Keep your butter chilled, since cold butter is key for flaky layers. Finally, whisk the egg and yogurt in advance and store them in the fridge so everything comes together quickly when it’s baking time.

Recipe Card

Lower Fat Scones Recipe

Recipe by Kenza Edem

0.0 from 0 votes

Difficulty: Easy

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Calories per serving

160

kcal

These fluffy, golden scones deliver the comfort of traditional scones with fewer calories and fat. Light, moist, and endlessly customizable.

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Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tbsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp salt

• 3 tbsp cold butter, cut into small cubes

• ⅓ cup cup plain Greek yogurt (low-fat)

• ⅓ cup low-fat milk (plus extra for brushing)

• 1 egg

• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup

• Optional: ½ cup fresh berries or dried fruit for extra flavor

Directions

• Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Add Butter: Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, mix in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, milk, egg, and honey.
• Form the Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. If using berries or dried fruit, fold them in gently.
• Shape and Cut: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, gently pat it into a 1-inch-thick circle, and cut into 8 wedges.
• Brush and Bake: Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet, brush with a little milk, and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Enjoy!

Notes

• Be careful not to overwork the dough to keep the scones light and fluffy.
• Adjust sweetness by adding an extra tablespoon of honey or your favorite sweetener.
• Try substituting half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a more rustic texture.

Nutrition Facts

• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g

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Tips & Tricks For The Best Lower Fat Scones Recipe

1. Use Cold Butter: Cold butter helps create those tender layers by releasing steam as it bakes. For best results, chill the butter cubes beforehand.
2. Avoid Overmixing: Stir until just combined to prevent dense scones. This step is crucial for that classic soft, crumbly texture.
3. Experiment with Flavors: Add a touch of cinnamon or lemon zest to give these scones a flavor boost.
4. Don’t Skip the Yogurt: Greek yogurt adds creaminess without the need for extra fat, so use it for a rich yet light bite.
5. Bake with a High Oven Temperature: The higher heat helps the scones rise quickly, creating a light and fluffy result.

What Can You Serve with Lower Fat Scones ?

Serve these scones with a light spread like low-fat cream cheese, fresh fruit preserves, or a small bowl of Greek yogurt mixed with honey for an extra creamy touch. They’re also delightful with a warm cup of herbal tea or coffee.

How to Store Lower Fat Scones

Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm in the oven.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Making This Recipe

1. Using Warm Butter: Warm butter doesn’t give the desired flaky texture. Always use cold butter!
2. Overworking the Dough: Resist the urge to knead or over-mix the dough to avoid tough scones.
3. Skipping the Milk Brush: This step adds a beautiful golden top – don’t skip it!
4. Baking Too Long: Overbaking can dry out the scones, so keep an eye on them.

Variants of the Lower Fat Scones Recipe

1. Blueberry Lower Fat Scones
Fresh or frozen blueberries give these scones a burst of juiciness. Toss the berries in a little flour before folding them into the dough to prevent bleeding. These pair beautifully with a touch of lemon zest for brightness.

2. Cranberry Orange Scones
Dried cranberries add chewiness and tartness, balanced by fragrant orange zest. This version is especially good during the holiday season. A light drizzle of orange glaze (made with powdered sugar and juice) keeps it lower in fat but still festive.

3. Whole Wheat Lower Fat Scones
Swap half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. The scones will have a heartier bite and nuttier flavor, perfect for breakfast with a cup of coffee.

4. Chocolate Chip Scones
For a treat, fold in mini dark chocolate chips. Even though it sounds indulgent, you’re still getting a lighter base. Perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s Wrap up

This Lower Fat Scones Recipe proves that baked goods don’t need to be overloaded with fat to be delicious. You still get that tender, crumbly bite with fewer calories, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting snack. Best of all, they’re versatile, you can go fruity, chocolatey, or even savory.

So the next time you’re craving something warm and homemade, give these lighter scones a try. They might just become your go-to recipe for cozy mornings or teatime gatherings. And if you’re in the mood for more wholesome baking, you might also enjoy trying a Cottage Cheese Banana Bread or Blueberry Muffins.