Yes, you can use bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) instead of baking powder in scones, but it's important to keep in mind that they are not directly interchangeable in equal amounts. Bicarbonate of soda is a base, and it needs an acidic ingredient to activate it and help the scones rise properly.
When using bicarbonate of soda in scones, you'll need an acidic ingredient to react with it. Buttermilk, yogurt, sour cream, lemon juice, or vinegar are common acidic choices that work well in scones. Here's a basic recipe using bicarbonate of soda and buttermilk:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- Optional add-ins: dried fruit, chocolate chips, or nuts
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, bicarbonate of soda, and salt.
Add the cold butter pieces to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry blender or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
If you're adding any optional ingredients like dried fruit or nuts, gently fold them into the flour and butter mixture.
Create a well in the center of the mixture and pour in the buttermilk. Stir gently with a fork or wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to overmix.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together.
Pat the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick. You can use a round cookie cutter or simply cut the circle into triangular scones.
Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the scones are golden brown on the outside.
Remove the scones from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.
The combination of bicarbonate of soda and buttermilk (or another acidic ingredient) will help the scones rise and create a tender texture. Just remember to work quickly and avoid overmixing to keep the scones light and fluffy. Enjoy your freshly baked scones with jam, clotted cream, or your favorite spreads!