it’s possible for you to thank the British (sort of).

However, as with almost everything Americans inherited from the Brits, we had to make them our own.

Scones are typically sweeter and served as a treat that’s just right with coffee or tea.

Southern Living Cathead Biscuits in a basket to serve with butter

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Here are the similarities and differences between scones and biscuits andsome recipesto try at home.

What’s The Difference Between Biscuits And Scones?

Side by side, abiscuit recipeand a scone recipe look deceptively similar.

Our Favorite Buttermilk Biscuit

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Both biscuits and scones have a foundation of flour, fat (usually butter), and liquid.

Where Did Biscuits Originate?

Over time, this fluffy and layered bread evolved into a regional commodity: theSouthern biscuit.

Southern Living Cream Cheese Biscuits

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Soft winter wheat self-rising flour was a game-changer whenWhite Lilystarted making it in 1883 in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Where Did Scones Originate?

This baked good has roots in the British Isles.

Southern Living Kissing Biscuits baked and ready to serve with butter and jam

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“In Scotland, scones are closely related to the griddle-baked flatbread, known as Bannock.”

Denser than its Southern cousin, these “biscuits” typically use eggs or cream as the liquid component.

This recipe change creates a tighter texture and creamier flavor than the buttery Southern buttermilk biscuits.

scones on a cutting board - Southern Living

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Over time, these dense pastries took on the name “scone.”

Today, these scones contain more sugar than the scones of the past.

Now that you know the evolution of the American versions of biscuits and scones, here are some recipes.

Bacon Cheddar Scones

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These biscuits are flaky, airy, and perfectly buttery.

This basic recipe provides a neutral bread flavoring, ideal for any topping.

Just ensure you use cold buttermilk, butter, and cream cheese.

Southern Living Butter Pecan Scones ready to serve on a serving board

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They’re quicker to make than a standard biscuit, making them perfect for busy mornings.

Best-Ever Scones

If you’re new to making scones, start here.

This simple recipe allows you to add your own creative riffs or keep things classic.

A cinnamon-spiked dough is studded with pecans and topped with a maple glaze.

Daughters of the British Empire.