A scone is a lightly sweetened baked good that sits somewhere between a biscuit and a cake. Scones are typically round or triangular, with a slightly crumbly texture that's perfect for splitting open and spreading with butter, jam, or clotted cream.

Scones originated in Scotland and became famous as part of British afternoon tea, where people enjoy them with tea and conversation. American scones tend to be sweeter and might include chocolate chips or berries, while British scones are plainer and rely on what you spread on them for flavor.

In Britain, the word usually rhymes with “gone,” but in America it often rhymes with “cone,” which can cause confusion. You might find scones at a bakery or coffee shop, or make them at home for a special breakfast. They're best eaten fresh and warm, when they're at their most tender and delicious.