When was the last time you indulged in a luxurious sweet treat? If you drink tea or coffee and are searching for the perfect complement to your beverage, look no further than the humble scone!

One afternoon, while on his daily quest for Iced Tea and something yummy, Justin Fetters discovered that his favorite bakery had run out of scones! Not to be easily deterred, Justin searched out a highly rated recipe, ran to the grocery store, and bought all the ingredients. Just like that, he made the finest Cranberry Orange Scones in Arizona!

Many associate the scone with the British tradition of High Tea, often served each day between 3:30 and 5 pm. Although Britain is best known for this crumbly little biscuit, it has a long international history dating back to the late 1200s, originating in Scotland. Some say the name was inspired by “The Stone of Destiny,” also known as the “Stone of Scone,” a legendary stone named after the small Scottish town of “Scone,” where kings were historically crowned. The stone was kept there and used as a coronation seat for the incoming king of Scotland and, later, of Britain.

The first scones were rustic, oat-baked pancakes cooked on a griddle, providing a hearty, practical, and portable food staple in Scotland. Today, scones are baked in an oven and look like something between a cake and a biscuit. They can be either savory or sweet.

Legend tells us that scones became an essential part of High Society’s English afternoon tea ritual after Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, requested some “light food”, including tea, biscuits, and scones to stave off hunger between breakfast and dinner. She fell in love with the “snack,” and a tradition was born. The Duchess began ordering tea and treats every afternoon, inviting her friends to join her.

Served on fine china and silver tea sets, the royal tradition of English afternoon tea continues around the world in cafes, hotels, and for many special occasions. A specific etiquette has evolved for eating a scone! Here are a few tips to bring you up-to-date:

England’s Coronation Chair