How to Know when Scones Are Baked

Reviewed by Craig Watson

Last Updated: November 28, 2023

Scones are delicious baked morsels but you don't want to over-cook them or they won't be as tender. Here is how to know when they're baked.

Steps

Download Article

Has adequate time passed yet? If not, and you think they might be ready, check to reassure yourself.
They should have browned slightly.

Advertisement
If they're baked, they will sound hollow. Use the top of your fingers for this.^{[1]
X
Expert Source

Traci Morgan-Hoernke
Gluten-Free Baking Specialist

Expert Interview}
If it comes out clean, the scone is ready. If it comes out with dough on it, the scones need a little more cooking time.^{[2]
X
Expert Source

Traci Morgan-Hoernke
Gluten-Free Baking Specialist

Expert Interview}

Expert Q&A

Search

Add New Question

Question

Are there any other ways of telling when it's perfectly cooked?

Traci Morgan-Hoernke
Gluten-Free Baking Specialist
Traci Morgan-Hoernke is a Gluten-Free Baking Specialist based in Milwaukee, WI. She is the owner of MOR Foods, LLC, a Bakery in Milwaukee dedicated to providing delicious Gluten-Free treats. She was inspired to start the bakery after spending years navigating her own son’s food allergies and subsequently built a business based on catering to those with food sensitivities.

Traci Morgan-Hoernke

Gluten-Free Baking Specialist

Expert Answer

Another crucial consideration is the internal temperature of bread, especially in the US, where it needs to reach at least 200 degrees Fahrenheit before being removed from the oven. This temperature requirement is essential due to the sugar setup and other factors affecting the bread's doneness. While toothpicks are a traditional method, we prefer using a specialized tool in our kitchen: a wire with a blue plastic handle that resembles a small piece of wire. We have about 15 of these tools to test the doneness of cupcakes, cakes, brownies, and more. This alternative offers a longer reach compared to a toothpick, making it especially beneficial for testing quick bread or similar items. Additionally, aside from using a testing tool, you can gauge the doneness of baked goods by checking for a slight spring on the top of the cake. If gently touched and it indents without springing back, it likely needs more time in the oven. These methods ensure a thorough and accurate assessment of your baked goods' readiness.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Question

How do I get the layered look on the scones?

Community Answer

Make sure you only work them until they come together. The look is from having all the butter not quite mixed in, so that when it melts the steam creates air pockets/layers in the pastry.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 2
Question

How do I ensure that my scones come out and stay soft for at least 24 hours?

Community Answer

Place your scone dough in the fridge for the night. Then bake them the next day.They should keep soft for two days in a bag or container at room temperature. Scones can also be kept 3 months in the freezer.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 3

Ask a Question

200 characters left

Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.

Submit

Tips

Crusty scones tops can be achieved by leaving the scones on a wire rack to cool. If you want them to be softer, wrap them in a clean tea towel while still hot.

Thanks
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0