Potato Scones Recipe – Soft & Savory Delight

If you’re looking for a comforting, easy-to-make treat, this potato scones recipe is perfect for you. Potato scones, also known as tattie scones in Scotland, are soft, lightly browned, and deliciously savory. Made with mashed potatoes and a few pantry staples, these scones are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even as a snack.

What makes this potato scones recipe so delightful is its simplicity and versatility. You can enjoy them warm with butter and jam, or pair them with eggs, bacon, or smoked salmon for a hearty meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a batch of these traditional scones to share with family and friends. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Potato Scones Recipe

Quick and Easy

You only need a few basic ingredients and about 30 minutes to make a batch.

Deliciously Soft and Savory

Mashed potatoes keep these scones moist and tender.

Versatile

Serve them plain, sweet, or savory — they go well with everything.

Traditional and Comforting

Potato scones are a Scottish classic, loved for their simplicity and flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here are the ingredients for this easy and delicious recipe:

 

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup (250g) mashed potatoes (cooled)
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 2 tablespoons butter (softened)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• Optional: a splash of milk if needed

Optional Toppings or Fillings

• Butter and jam
• Smoked salmon and cream cheese
• Scrambled eggs
• Grated cheese and herbs

How to Make Potato Scones?

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel, boil, and mash your potatoes. Let them cool completely before using.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, salt, baking powder, and butter. Mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a splash of milk. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a circle about 1/4 inch (0.5 cm) thick.

Step 4: Cut the Scones

Using a knife or a pizza cutter, cut the circle into quarters (or eighths for smaller scones).

Step 5: Cook the Scones

Heat a lightly greased skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each scone for 3–4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Serve the potato scones warm with your favorite toppings or alongside a full breakfast.

Tips for Perfect Potato Scones

Use Cold, Dry Potatoes

Wet or hot mashed potatoes can make the dough sticky, so cool them first.

Don’t Overwork the Dough

Mix just until everything comes together to keep the scones tender.

Cook Over Medium Heat

Too high heat can burn the outside before the inside cooks.

Serve Immediately

Potato scones are best enjoyed fresh off the pan, while they’re warm and soft.

Delicious Variations

Cheesy Potato Scones

Add 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese to the dough for a cheesy twist.

Herb-Infused

Mix in chopped chives, parsley, or rosemary for extra flavor.

Sweet Potato Scones

Substitute mashed sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, colorful version.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with butter and a sprinkle of sea salt.
• Pair with smoked salmon and dill for a gourmet appetizer.
• Enjoy alongside eggs, bacon, and beans for a full Scottish breakfast.
• Spread with jam and clotted cream for a sweet-salty treat.

How to Store & Reheat Potato Scones

Storing

Keep leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Wrap cooked scones in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Reheating

Warm the scones in a skillet, oven, or toaster for a few minutes before serving.

Why Potato Scones Are a Great Choice

Affordable Ingredients

Made with potatoes and flour, this recipe is budget-friendly.

Comforting and Filling

Potato scones are hearty and satisfying, perfect for cold mornings.

Kid-Friendly

Their soft texture and mild flavor make them a hit with kids.

Culturally Rich

They’re a beloved part of Scottish cuisine, steeped in tradition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Dough Too Wet or Sticky

Add flour a little at a time if the dough feels sticky, but avoid adding too much.

Burning the Scones

Keep the heat at medium and flip once the bottom is golden.

Uneven Thickness

Roll the dough evenly so all the scones cook at the same rate.

FAQs

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?

Yes! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly. Just make sure they’re not too buttery or creamy.

Do I need baking powder?

It’s optional but helps make the scones a bit lighter. Without it, the scones will still taste great but be slightly denser.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Traditionally, potato scones are cooked on a griddle, but you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–20 minutes.

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend works well as a substitute.

Are potato scones the same as hash browns?

No. Potato scones are more like flatbread or pancakes made with potatoes, while hash browns are shredded and fried.

Related Recipes

• Baked Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Recipe
• Best Banana Bread Bites Recipe
• Top 8 Ultimate Keto-Friendly Breakfast Recipes

Final Thoughts

This potato scones recipe is a must-try if you love simple, hearty, and traditional dishes. With their soft texture, savory flavor, and endless serving possibilities, these scones can easily become a family favorite. Whether you enjoy them with butter and jam, as part of a full breakfast, or as a snack, they’re always satisfying.

So grab some potatoes, mix up the dough, and enjoy a taste of Scottish comfort food today. If you’d like, I can also help you create a printable recipe card or suggest even more creative variations. Just let me know!