1. Preparation
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Gather all ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, buttermilk, and optional add-ins.
Measure out 2 cups of all-purpose flour and sift it into a large mixing bowl.
Add 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the flour and whisk until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, cube 1/4 cup of unsalted butter and mix it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
If desired, add in 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and any optional add-ins like dried fruit or chocolate chips.
2. Mixing
Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in 3/4 cup of buttermilk.
Gently stir with a fork until the dough just comes together; do not overmix.
Once combined, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
3. Shaping
Shape the dough gently into a rectangle about 1 inch thick.
Fold the dough over onto itself a couple of times to create a flaky texture.
Pat the dough again into a rectangle and then cut it into triangles or use a round cutter for circles.
4. Baking
Arrange the scones on the prepared baking sheet with a little space in between them.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.
Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before serving.