Scone

A scone (スコーン) is a lightly sweet baked good from Britain, crisp outside and crumbly inside, often split and eaten with clotted cream and jam. In Japan, cafés, bakeries and tea rooms serve plain scones alongside flavoured ones such as chocolate chip, matcha or seasonal fruit, and some shops use the name "nama scone" for a softer, moister scone.

Places
8
Popular in
Tokyo · Osaka
Often paired with
Croissant · Cheesecake · Pudding · Tart
Served in
Dessert cafe · Bakery cafe

History

Scones come from Britain, where they are part of afternoon tea and the cream tea: scones with clotted cream, jam and a pot of tea. In Japan they are a familiar item at tea rooms, hotel lounges and bakeries.

Why people love it

Warm scones are buttery and crumbly, and the cream and jam change from bite to bite. They pair naturally with tea or coffee.

How people enjoy it

Scones are best warm, so some places reheat them to order. Tea rooms often serve them as part of an afternoon tea set.

Places to visit

Find places serving scones →

Related topics

Frequently asked questions

What is clotted cream?
A thick, rich cream with a texture between butter and whipped cream, traditionally spread on scones.
Jam first or cream first?
Both are traditional: in Devon the cream usually goes on first, in Cornwall the jam. Either way is fine.
What is a nama scone?
Some Japanese shops use "nama scone" for a softer, moister scone; recipes vary by shop.
Are scones sweet?
Plain scones are often lightly sweet; sweetness varies by recipe. Jam adds sweetness, while clotted cream adds richness. Savoury versions also exist.