Tredition Australian Lemonade Scones needs only three ingredients cream, lemonade and flour to make it ready.
Making scones doesn’t have to be a tiresome, butter-rubbing chore. With just three ingredients — cream, lemonade, and flour — you can make scones that are light, crisp on the outside, and fluffy on the inside. The bubbles in the lemonade aerate the dough, while the cream adds richness without the hassle of cold butter.
This Australian classic, created decades ago by the Country Women’s Association, is a simple, foolproof recipe. With minimal kneading and no butter battle, these scones are ready for the oven in minutes. Serve them fresh with jam and cream for the perfect blend of ease, tradition, and deliciousness.

Making lemonade scones is simple and requires only a few ingredients you likely have at home. With just a bit of mixing and baking, you’ll enjoy fresh scones bursting with citrus flavor. Pair them with cream or jam for an extra treat, and you’ll have a wonderful snack or dessert
What is ‘Lemonade’?
Here, lemonade refers to carbonated lemon-flavored soda, not homemade lemonade. It sweetens the dough and its bubbles help aerate the mixture, giving scones a lighter texture.
How Do They Compare to Traditional Scones?
Lemonade scones are faster to prepare and require less effort than traditional scones, which need cold butter rubbed into flour. They achieve a similar crisp exterior and fluffy interior but in a fraction of the time. This makes them ideal for bakers who want the classic taste without the tedious steps

Ingredient Notes
- Self-raising flour: Provides structure and rise without extra baking powder.
- Cream: Replaces butter, adding richness and tenderness.
- Lemonade: Adds sweetness and carbonation to lift the dough and create a light texture.
Tip: Gluten-free self-raising flour can be used to make these scones gluten-free.
Ingredient | Amount |
All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
Baking powder | 1 tablespoon |
Sugar | 1/4 cup |
Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
Butter, softened | 1/2 cup |
Lemonade (not diluted) | 3/4 cup |
Optional: Lemon Zest | 1 tablespoon |
These ingredients will create a light and flavorful scone. Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing, and you can add lemon zest for extra zing if desired.
How to Make Lemonade Scones
- Preheat oven to around 200°C (390°F) and line a baking tray.
- Mix flour, cream, and lemonade gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface, knead lightly 3–5 times, pat into a disc, and cut rounds.
- Place scones close together on the tray, optionally brush with milk, and bake 12–15 minutes until golden.
- Pro tip: Less kneading produces a fluffier scone with a craggy, perfect top.
Nutritional Information
A typical serving (with jam and cream) contains around 389 kcal. Healthier or alternative versions, like dairy-free scones, may have fewer calories.
Optional: Use our Calories Calculator, BMI Calculator, or BMR Calculator to track nutrition and adjust portions as needed.

These steps will help you make delicious lemonade scones that are perfect for breakfast or snack time. Enjoy your baking!
Why Use Lemonade for Scones?
The carbonation in lemonade lifts the dough naturally, creating airy scones without extra leavening. It adds a subtle sweetness and ensures the scones stay moist and tender.
How Long Do Scones Keep?
Best enjoyed fresh, scones can stay soft for a few days if stored in an airtight container. Reheating briefly revives them. They can also be frozen for up to three months and warmed before serving
Why We Love This Easy Scone Recipe
This recipe is loved for its simplicity, speed, and reliability. Even beginner bakers can achieve light, fluffy scones with minimal effort. It’s a “miracle” recipe that combines traditional flavor with modern convenience.
This beloved lemonade scone originates from Australia, and you can read more about its history and cultural significance on dedicated culinary history pages.
Serving Suggestions
Lemonade scones pair well with various accompaniments and can be presented in appealing ways. Here are some ideas to enhance your serving.
Accompaniments
Consider serving your lemonade scones with these tasty additions:
- Clotted Cream: This rich cream adds a luxurious touch to your scones. It pairs perfectly with the zesty flavor.
- Lemon Curd: A spread of lemon curd enhances the citrus taste and adds sweetness.
- Fruit Preserves: Strawberry or raspberry preserves can add a burst of fruity flavor.
- Fresh Berries: Served on the side, they provide a fresh contrast that brightens the dish.
- Tea or Lemonade: A warm cup of tea or a chilled glass of lemonade complements the scones nicely.
These choices can elevate your experience and please your guests.
Presentation Tips
How you present your lemonade scones can make a big difference. Here are some helpful tips:
- Serving Platter: Use a colorful or decorative serving platter to catch the eye.
- Garnishes: Add a sprig of mint or lemon slices for a fresh touch.
- Cut Shapes: Instead of traditional triangles, try cutting your scones into fun shapes using cookie cutters.
- Height Variation: Stack some scones and arrange others around them to create visual interest.
- Individual Portions: Serve scones on small plates for a personal touch.
These methods can make your lemonade scones not only delicious but beautiful as well.