Toasted Coconut Scones with Almonds are a delightful twist on the traditional British treat, merging the rich flavours of coconut and the subtle nuttiness of almonds. Perfectly golden and slightly crunchy on the outside, these scones boast a tender, melt-in-the-mouth texture that is simply irresistible.

To make the best scones, start by preheating your oven to 220°C (200°C fan) and lining a baking tray with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine 225g of self-raising flour, 75g of desiccated coconut, a pinch of salt, and 50g of toasted almonds, roughly chopped. The toasting process enhances the almonds' flavour, so don't skip it!

Next, add 50g of cold, cubed butter and rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. Stir in 75g of caster sugar for a touch of sweetness, followed by 150ml of milk and a sprinkle of vanilla extract. Mix gently until the dough just comes together—be careful not to overwork it!

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a round about 2.5cm thick. Use a sharp knife or a scone cutter to cut out your scones, and place them on the prepared baking tray. Brush the tops with a little milk for a golden finish.

Bake in the oven for around 12-15 minutes, or until they are beautifully risen and a lovely golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving with a generous spread of clotted cream and a dollop of your favourite jam. Enjoy these scones with a steaming cup of tea for the ultimate afternoon treat!