Review of The National Trust Book of Scones: Delicious Recipes and Odd Crumbs of History

Sarah Merker’s The National Trust Book of Scones is more than just a cookbook; it’s a delightful journey through history and tradition. Combining over 50 scone recipes with fascinating stories from National Trust properties, this book is perfect for anyone who loves baking, history, or a good cup of tea with a warm scone.

First Impressions:

This book is charming in every way. The layout is clean and approachable, with recipes interspersed with “odd crumbs” of history about the National Trust and its properties. The tone is light-hearted and engaging, making it as enjoyable to read as it is to bake from. The beautiful photography showcases both the scones and the historic locations, adding a unique dimension to the book.

What I Loved:

• Diverse Recipes: From classic plain scones to creative flavors like Stilton and Walnut or Lemon Drizzle, there’s a scone for every taste.
• Historical Tidbits: Each recipe is paired with a story or fact about a National Trust property, making the book both educational and entertaining.
• Accessible Instructions: The recipes are straightforward and beginner-friendly, with clear instructions and helpful tips.
• Connection to Tradition: The book celebrates the tradition of scones and their role in British tea culture, offering a nostalgic yet fresh perspective.

Recipes I Tried and Loved:

1. Classic Fruit Scones: Buttery and tender, these scones were perfect with clotted cream and jam.
2. Cheddar and Chive Scones: Savory, cheesy, and utterly addictive—ideal for a picnic or snack.
3. Chocolate and Orange Scones: A decadent twist that paired beautifully with a cup of Earl Grey.
4. Herb and Stilton Scones: Sophisticated and flavorful, these were a hit at a dinner party.

Add a Creative Touch with Tools:

To get the best results from The National Trust Book of Scones, consider these tools:

• Pastry Cutter: Ensures perfectly crumbly dough.
• Round Biscuit Cutter: Creates evenly shaped scones with clean edges.
• Baking Stone: Helps achieve even baking and a golden crust.
• Pastry Brush: Essential for glazing scones with milk or egg wash.

Who Is This Book For?

This book is perfect for scone enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone who enjoys the tradition of afternoon tea. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, the recipes are accessible, and the historical anecdotes add a unique charm that will appeal to a wide audience.

A Few Notes:

While the recipes are delightful, some may find the inclusion of historical content unnecessary if they’re looking solely for a cookbook. However, for those who appreciate a mix of culture and cuisine, it’s a winning combination.

Final Thoughts:

The National Trust Book of Scones is a delightful read and an excellent resource for anyone who loves scones or British culture. With its mix of reliable recipes and charming stories, it’s as much a coffee table book as it is a practical guide to baking. This is a book to treasure, bake from, and gift to fellow scone lovers.