Tea Time

Beth's Scones
The British get the tea-time ritual just right- who wouldn't want to take a moment of pause in the midst of a hectic day with a hot cup of Earl Grey and a snack? In the spirit of Oscar Wilde and everything British we're having a tea party tomorrow as part of our read-through to kick off rehearsals for An Ideal Husband. I've been whipping up tea-party treats all day (finger sandwiches, shortbread, and an apple and caramelized onion tart to name a few). No tea party would be complete without scones slathered in clotted cream and strawberry jam.

My friend Beth gave me this recipe. The scones are buttery and delicious and a snap to whip up. You can find clotted cream at fancy grocery stores- I've had the best luck at Cost Plus World Market. It's friggin' delicious!

Ingredients
- 2 c. flour
- 1/2 c. powdered sugar
- 1 Tbsp. baking powder
- 6 Tbsp. butter (cold)
- 1 egg
- milk

Preheat oven to 400˚ F. In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, powdered sugar, and baking powder. Cut in butter. In a measuring cup, mix together egg and enough milk to make 3/4 c. liquid. Make a well in the dry ingredients and pour in the liquid. Mix lightly with a fork or pastry blender until it forms into a sticky dough. Knead briefly. Pat out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1" thick. Cut into eight wedges. Bake on parchment-lined baking sheet 9-12 minutes. Serve with tea, clotted cream, strawberry jam, and your best British dialect. Cheers!