Scones are always a welcome treat with a relaxing cup of tea.

Teatime Scones

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup chilled butter
1 large egg
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Cut in chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a separate bowl, combine egg, buttermilk, and vanilla. Stir into the dry ingredients to form a soft dough and gather into a ball. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead briefly. Pat the dough down until 1/2-inch thick, then using a 2 1/2-inch cookie cutter, cut the dough into rounds, gathering the scraps together until done. Place the rounds on a lightly greased baking sheet.
4. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool on wire racks.

Makes 12 scones.